Home-made remedies for dandruff

Dandruff is a recurring scalp condition that causes visible flakes and may cause itching. Oil, skin-cell turnover and yeast that normally lives on skin can interact to produce scaling. It is not a sign of poor hygiene, and scratching can irritate the scalp further. Seborrheic dermatitis can cause more pronounced redness, greasy scale or changes around the ears, eyebrows and nose. Read about [Dandruff](/conditions/dandruff/) and [Seborrheic Dermatitis](/conditions/seborrheic-dermatitis/) for context.

Wash the scalp regularly with a gentle shampoo and rinse thoroughly. Loosen scale with fingertips rather than fingernails, and avoid picking. Stop any new hair dye, oil blend or fragranced product that stings or worsens the flakes. Home mixtures such as lemon juice, vinegar, baking soda or undiluted essential oils can irritate broken skin and are not a reliable substitute for treatment. If ordinary washing is not enough, a [Medicated Shampoo Treatment](/treatments/medical-dermatology/medicated-shampoo-therapy/) may target the process behind flaking. A clinician may consider [Topical Antifungal Treatment](/treatments/medical-dermatology/topical-antifungal-therapy/) when yeast-related inflammation is suspected.

Arrange a dermatology review if the scalp is painful, swollen, bleeding, crusted or producing pus, or if hair is breaking or falling in patches. Seek advice when scaling spreads beyond the scalp, affects the eyelids or ears, or does not settle with consistent care. Marked itch can be discussed alongside [Itchy Scalp](/symptoms/itchy-scalp/), while extensive [Flaky Scalp](/symptoms/scalp-flaking/) may need a diagnosis other than simple dandruff.

Could this be seborrheic dermatitis, psoriasis or another scalp condition? Which shampoo ingredient suits my scalp, how often should I use it, and what should I do if the skin becomes sore?