Dandruff ka ilaj: how to get rid of dandruff and itchy scalp at home

Dandruff is one of the most searched hair problems in Pakistan, and for good reason: heat, sweat, hard water and irregular washing all make it worse. Here is what actually causes it and a simple home routine to control it.

What causes dandruff?

Dandruff is mostly linked to a yeast called Malassezia that lives on everyone's scalp. When it overgrows, usually because of excess oil, sweat or build-up, the scalp becomes irritated and sheds skin faster, which shows up as white flakes and itching. A dry scalp can also flake, but those flakes tend to be smaller and the scalp feels tight rather than oily.

Everyday habits that help

• Wash regularly: 2 to 3 times a week, more if your scalp is oily or you sweat a lot.
• Don't leave oil on for days: oil is great for a champi, but leaving it on for several days feeds dandruff. Wash it out within a few hours or the next morning.
• Dry your hair properly: tying up wet hair traps moisture on the scalp.
• Keep combs, pillowcases and caps clean.
• Avoid scratching, which irritates the scalp further.

A simple oil routine for dandruff

Traditional ingredients like methi (fenugreek), rosemary and peppermint are popular for an itchy, flaky scalp. Our Growth Therapy Rosemary Mint Hair Oil combines rosemary, peppermint, methi, castor, sesame and coconut oil.

1. Part your hair into sections and apply the oil directly to the scalp.
2. Massage gently for 3 to 5 minutes. Peppermint gives a cooling feel on an itchy scalp.
3. Leave it on for 1 to 2 hours, or overnight.
4. Wash thoroughly with shampoo, twice if needed, so no oily residue is left behind.
5. Repeat 2 to 3 times a week.

Want extra help? Add 2 drops of Tea Tree Oil to your oil before applying.

When to see a doctor

See a dermatologist if your scalp is red and inflamed, the flakes are thick and yellowish, the itching is severe, or nothing improves after 4 weeks. These can be signs of seborrheic dermatitis, psoriasis or a fungal infection that need medical treatment.

For hair fall and dryness too, explore our Hair Care collection.