Great hair needs a lot of care and attention. If you are experiencing hair fall or you notice split ends making their way up to your hair shaft, it calls for immediate damage control. But, the most pertinent question here is does your scalp receive similar attention? Most hair problems are rooted in the scalp. Hair fall, hair loss, hair thinning, etc. are some of the common hair care issues that literally stem from an unhealthy scalp. One such scalp issue that gives everyone hair care nightmares is hair dandruff.
When it comes to dandruff treatment, people often look up home remedies for dandruff on the internet, and one of the most popular home remedies is using baking soda for removing dandruff. But, does it really work? Let’s find out.
What causes dandruff?
One of the major reasons for dandruff is the microbe Malassezia Globosa, which lives on everyone’s scalp. The fungus feeds on the sebum secreted by the scalp and releases a substance called oleic acid. About half the population in the world is sensitive to this substance. As a reaction, the body directs the scalp to get rid of the allergen by shedding the skin cells at a faster rate than usual. These yellowish, oily flakes are called dandruff. Other major causes of dandruff include:
- Dry skin
- Sensitivity to certain hair products
- Irritated, oily skin
- Certain skin conditions, like psoriasis and eczema.
Can baking soda be used to treat dandruff?
Baking soda has been cited as one of the effective dandruff home remedies since it is believed to possess antifungal properties that can help remove dandruff. It is often used along with apple cider vinegar or lemon or sometimes even olive oil. Baking soda has a higher pH level than that of the scalp or the hair shaft, and it can cause cuticle damage, hair breakage, frizz, and irritation. Though baking soda has exfoliating properties, it can dry out and irritate your scalp and strip your hair of its natural oils. So, to answer your question, baking soda does not treat dandruff. So, what can be used to treat dandruff? To get rid of dandruff completely, you need an effective anti-dandruff shampoo and conditioner. You can try Head & Shoulders anti-dandruff shampoo and conditioner, which are formulated with zinc pyrithione. This active dandruff-fighting ingredient has the ability to remove dandruff flakes, heal your scalp, control oil production, and reduce scalp irritation and redness. In fact, you will start noticing the difference from the first wash itself.
Apply the anti-dandruff shampoo to your wet hair and scalp, and let it sit for a few minutes. Wash it off completely and follow it up with the anti-dandruff conditioner. Use the anti-dandruff shampoo and conditioner till your scalp is clear of dandruff.
Using baking soda for dandruff can damage your skin and hair, in the long run, owing to its high pH level, and makes your scalp dry, sensitive, and less resilient. If dandruff doesn’t subside, you need to visit a dermatologist to avail the right treatment.