When we got home from summer vacation, I noticed my kids had developed dandruff. I initially felt slightly stressed, but then I knew it was time to find a solution.
Dandruff can be a frustrating issue for anyone, but it can be especially challenging when it affects children. If your child is dealing with dandruff, various ways exist to manage and alleviate the condition.
Understanding Dandruff in Children
Dandruff is dry flakes of skin on the scalp. It happens when many dead skin cells build up on the scalp. Several factors, including dry skin, oily skin, fungal infections, or sensitivity to hair products, can cause it. While dandruff is common, it can be uncomfortable and embarrassing for children. Addressing it effectively requires understanding its causes and using appropriate treatments.
Homemade Remedies for Dandruff
Since I didn’t have any dandruff shampoo on hand, I decided to get creative with some home remedies. I tried a few simple tricks, and they worked! Let me share these handy tips with you so you can try them if you ever find yourself in the same boat.
1. Coconut Oil Treatment
Yes, you read that right — coconut oil is famous for its moisturizing benefits and can help with dandruff caused by dry skin. Its antifungal properties also help reduce flakes. Studies suggest applying it as a moisturizer about 30 minutes before washing can enhance skin hydration, prevent dryness, and reduce inflammation.
How to Use:
- Warm a small amount of coconut oil.
- Gently massage it into your child’s scalp.
- Leave it on for about 30 minutes.
- Wash off with a mild shampoo.
2. Apple Cider Vinegar Rinse
Apple cider vinegar helps balance the scalp’s pH and has antifungal properties that can help reduce dandruff.
How to Use:
- Mix equal parts apple cider vinegar and water.
- Apply the mixture to the scalp.
- Let it sit for 15 minutes.
- Rinse thoroughly with water.
3. Yogurt and Lemon Mask
Yoghurt’s probiotics and lemon’s acidic properties can help fight dandruff and soothe the scalp.
How to Use:
- Mix plain yoghurt with a tablespoon of lemon juice.
- Apply the mixture to the scalp.
- Leave it on for 20 minutes.
- Rinse with water and a mild shampoo.
Shampoo Recommendations
Besides homemade remedies, there are several effective shampoos available in India that can help manage dandruff. When choosing a shampoo, look for ingredients like ketoconazole, zinc pyrithione, or selenium sulfide, which are known to tackle dandruff.
- Selsun Suspension Shampoo
- Nizoral Anti-Dandruff Shampoo
- Ketoconazol Anti-Dandruff Shampoo
- Head & Shoulders Anti-Dandruff Shampoo
- Dove DermaCare Scalp Anti-Dandruff Shampoo
Additional Tips for Managing Dandruff in Children
While we were on vacation, I didn’t keep up with my kids’ usual hair care routine, leading to an unexpected case of dandruff. The change in routine, combined with summer elements like sun, saltwater, and chlorine, seemed to aggravate their scalps. To help manage dandruff effectively, here are a few additional tips that might make a difference:
- Stick to a Consistent Routine: Regular hair washing and care are crucial. Try to maintain a consistent routine to keep dandruff under control and prevent it from worsening.
- Choose Gentle Products: Opt for mild, hypoallergenic shampoos and conditioners for sensitive scalps. Harsh chemicals can irritate the skin and make dandruff worse.
- Boost Their Diet: Ensure your child’s diet includes plenty of vitamins and minerals. Foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids, such as fish, nuts, fruits, and green seasonal vegetables, can promote a healthier scalp.
- Manage Stress: Stress can impact scalp health, so help your child find relaxing activities they enjoy. Keeping their stress levels in check can positively affect their skin and overall well-being.
- Seek Professional Advice: Consider consulting a pediatric dermatologist if dandruff persists despite these efforts. They can provide expert advice and prescribe treatments tailored to your child’s needs.
Wrap up:
Dandruff can be managed with the right approach. From using tried-and-true homemade remedies to picking the right over-the-counter shampoos, you can help your child achieve a healthier scalp.
Remember to stick to a good hair care routine, and don’t hesitate to consult a professional if needed. With the right care and treatment, your child can enjoy a dandruff-free scalp and better hair health.
By following these tips and recommendations, you’ll be well on your way to tackling dandruff effectively. From my experience, I found that sticking to these strategies helps manage dandruff and keeps my kids’ scalps healthy and comfortable.
So, these are the tips and shampoos I tried for dandruff. Have you ever dealt with dandruff yourself? Let me know what tricks worked for you!
This blog post is part of the blog challenge ‘Blogaberry Dazzle’
hosted by Cindy D’Silva and Noor Anand Chawla
in collaboration with Dr. Preeti Chauhan.
I too have dry scalp problems which results in dandruff, especially during the colder months. Coconut oil treatment works best in that case. These are very easy and effective tips, Felishia. Will try the other suggestions you’ve mentioned here which I haven’t yet tried
I also oil my hair for keeping dandruff at bay. I have never tried Apple Cider Vinegar, but your recommendation makes it a good option. I primarily get it during winter.
Coming from the South, coconut oil is my go-to treatment for all hair problems. And I loved that it is also your first recommendation. Easy to use, and great for the hair. I’ve never tried yoghurt or apple cider vinegar. Will try them out.
Oho Anjali when the winter arrives I dont know from where the dandruff arrives on my scalp. It is so painful and scary for me that I cant express you, nothing works for me till the time summer arrives and give my scalp a bit relief. For me Dandruff is a curse and I hate it. Will try few of your tips.
Coconut oil is a real saviour. I resorted to it when my kids were growing up. It was nice to read about others too. Can give inputs to those who struggle with the dandruff issue
When my kids were young, I always used coconut oil with some lemon juice for dandruff. Very effective. We did not have specific dandruff shampoos back then.
My kids don’t yet but I do suffer from dandruff. Partly because I am a great procrastinator in washing my curly hair. Thanks for the tips.
Monsoon and dandruff is deadly combination. And now I have to treat my daughter dandruff too. Your tips are helpful. I always tried hot coconut oil chumpy. Will try yogurt hair pack but after monsoon. Because it might caught cold.
A very practical article, and i like how you have suggested all home remedies and not chemical dependent ones.
Coconut oil is still my go to for oiling the hair all year round.
Coconut oil is the best option for dandruff. I haven’t tried the other ones. I’m sure they work with grown-ups too :). Thanks for sharing them.
Oiling is my go to for dealing with dandruff. Once in three months, I go and get a hair spa at a local salon. This has helped me with dealing with dandruff problems greatly.
My daughter has developed dandruff of late. I add lemon juice to warm coconut oil, apply it to her scalp and leave overnight. Results are slow but it seems to be reducing. Can try with the yoghurt too. Homemade tips are the best. Thanks.
Nice and effective tips. I too use coconut oil before washing my hair. It has commendable results and is long-lasting. I never used cyder vinegar but will try too.
These are all useful tips. Thanks for sharing.