Winter offers a respite from the sweltering summer heat, but do you know what else winter brings in its wake? Dandruff! If you notice flakes coating your shoulder when you give your head a slight shake, you are diagnosed with a case of winter dandruff. Do you often wonder why is it that you get dandruff only during this time of the year? Let’s get to the bottom of this mystery.
Usual causes of dandruff
Typically, one of the primary reasons for dandruff is the presence of the microbe Malassezia globosa on the scalp. While this microbe is harmless, it creates a by-product called oleic acid when it breaks down the sebum on the scalp. About half the population is allergic to oleic acid, and your scalp gets flaky as a response to this allergic reaction because your body tries to shed the irritant. This is how you usually get dandruff.
Causes of dandruff in winters
You need to understand that winter itself doesn’t cause dandruff. However, some other factors contribute to triggering dandruff during winters. These include:
- Dry air
The central heating in offices and homes makes your surroundings cosy but makes the air drier. If you are prone to dry scalp, dry air can worsen the condition.
- Wearing a hat
When you wear a hat, you raise the temperature of your scalp. And, dandruff-causing microbes tend to thrive at higher temperatures. So, even if it is cold outside, wearing a hat increases your risk of dandruff.
Now that you know the major reasons for dandruff in winter, let’s look at which dandruff solution can best help your condition.
Treating dandruff in winter
While winter is all about cozy sweaters and hot chocolate, an unprecedented dandruff attack will have you searching “how to cure dandruff” on the Internet. Let’s find the best remedies for winter dandruff.
- Coconut oil and lime juice
When you combine the moisturizing properties of coconut oil and the acidic pH of lime juice, you get a dandruff remedy. While coconut oil keeps your scalp and hair hydrated, the lime juice cleanses the scalp and its citric acid adjusts the pH level of the scalp. This ensures that the dandruff-causing fungus does not thrive.
- Aloe vera and apple cider vinegar (ACV)
Aloe vera possesses hydrating properties and is ideal for nourishing your hair during winters. This succulent plant’s gel also contains antifungal properties that can help in getting rid of dandruff. It works wonders by soothing your irritated scalp. Apple cider vinegar, on the other hand, can balance the pH levels of your scalp and hair, and gives your hair a natural sheen. When you combine the benefits of both these ingredients, you can treat dry scalp and nourish your hair as well.
- Tea tree oil and almond oil
The antifungal properties of tea tree oil and almond oil’s nourishing properties can help remove dandruff and soothe your dry and itchy scalp. Also, ensure that you dilute tea tree oil as it can irritate your scalp.
- Anti-dandruff products
Anti-dandruff products play a vital role in keeping dandruff at bay. Most anti-dandruff shampoos are formulated with active ingredients that are formulated to fight off dandruff. You can try the Head & Shoulders Anti-dandruff Shampoo range that is created using zinc pyrithione, a potent ingredient that fights off dandruff and keeps your scalp clean.
Dandruff in winters can test your patience. However, instead of letting dandruff ruin your enthusiasm for cozy winter evenings, try these home remedies and enjoy flake-free, clean hair.