10 Home Remedies to Get Rid of Dandruff Naturally

If you find yourself constantly brushing flakes off your shoulders, you’re not alone—and it’s not just about dryness. While a parched scalp is a common culprit, dandruff often has multiple root causes. One major trigger is an overgrowth of Malassezia, a yeast-like fungus that feeds on scalp oils and disrupts the natural balance. Adding to the problem, poor scalp hygiene allows dead skin cells, sebum, and styling products to accumulate, creating the perfect environment for irritation and flaking. And let’s not overlook diet—when your meals lack essential nutrients like zinc, B vitamins, or healthy fats, your skin (scalp included) can’t stay balanced and resilient.

The good news? Identifying these underlying factors is the first step toward long-term relief. Once you understand what’s causing your dandruff—be it dryness, fungus, buildup, or nutritional gaps—you can choose remedies that directly target the issue. That’s where these 10 natural home treatments come in. Each one tackles dandruff from a different angle: hydrating the scalp, restoring microbiome balance, exfoliating dead cells, and supporting skin health from within. Ready to break the flake cycle for good? Let’s get started.

Coconut Oil + Tea Tree Oil: A Powerful Duo to Eliminate Dandruff

Wondering how to tackle dandruff without reaching for chemical-laden shampoos? The answer might already be in your kitchen or skincare cabinet. Combining coconut oil and tea tree oil creates a potent natural remedy that hydrates, heals, and protects the scalp—all at once.

Why Coconut Oil Works Against Dandruff

Coconut oil is more than just a trend; it’s a deeply nourishing emollient that penetrates the scalp, restores moisture balance, and prevents dryness. Its medium-chain fatty acids—especially lauric acid—create a lipid barrier on the skin that retains hydration and reduces protein loss. This action minimizes scalp flaking and soothes irritation.

A 2004 study published in the Journal of Cosmetic Science showed that coconut oil has better hair shaft penetration than mineral oil and sunflower oil, making it ideal for conditioning both scalp and hair. By keeping the skin barrier intact, it reduces the cycle of dead skin buildup that leads to dandruff flakes.

Tea Tree Oil: Nature’s Antifungal Ally

Derived from the Melaleuca alternifolia plant, tea tree oil is rich in terpinen-4-ol—a compound scientifically proven to have antifungal and antibacterial action. These properties target Malassezia yeast, a microorganism often linked to dandruff.

According to a 2002 randomized controlled trial published in the journal Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology, participants using a 5% tea tree oil shampoo experienced a 41% improvement in dandruff severity compared to placebo. This isn’t anecdotal—it’s evidence-backed.

How to Create and Apply the Treatment

Ready to put it into action? Here’s how to make your own dandruff-fighting scalp treatment at home:

• Take 2 tablespoons of organic coconut oil. Warm it slightly until it becomes liquid if it’s solid at room temperature.
• Add exactly 5 drops of tea tree oil.
• Mix well and gently massage the blend into your scalp, using your fingertips in circular motions to stimulate circulation and ensure even coverage.
• Leave the mixture on for 30 minutes. This gives the oils enough time to penetrate and work at the root level.
• Rinse with a mild, sulfate-free shampoo, and follow up with water at a comfortable temperature—hot water can irritate the scalp further.

For best results, repeat this routine twice a week. With consistent use, you’ll notice less flaking, reduced itchiness, and a calmer, healthier scalp within a few weeks.

How This Combo Targets the Root Causes of Dandruff

This treatment goes beyond surface-level relief. Coconut oil locks in moisture and nourishes dry, irritated skin, effectively preventing the peeling of dehydrated scalp layers. Meanwhile, tea tree oil penetrates deeply to fight fungal growth and microbial imbalance, one of the primary instigators of persistent dandruff.

Together, they form a synchronized defense system—hydrating the skin, removing dead cells, and curbing fungal proliferation. It’s a natural regimen grounded in science and proven tradition, offering a holistic path to a flake-free scalp.

Apple Cider Vinegar Rinse: A pH-Balancing Remedy for Flake-Free Hair

Ever wonder why your scalp feels fresh after a splash of vinegar? There’s more than just an old wives’ tale behind it. Apple cider vinegar (ACV) transforms your scalp environment by creating conditions where dandruff-causing fungi can’t prosper. It’s not just effective—it’s backed by science.

Why Apple Cider Vinegar Works for Dandruff

Dandruff is often triggered by an overgrowth of Malassezia, a yeast-like fungus that thrives in an imbalanced scalp environment. When the scalp’s pH leans too alkaline, Malassezia can multiply rapidly, contributing to inflammation and flaking. Apple cider vinegar, with its natural acidity (typically between pH 2.5 and 3), helps restore the skin’s natural acidic mantle, making it less hospitable for fungal overgrowth.

Research published in the Journal of Clinical and Aesthetic Dermatology highlights that maintaining the scalp’s pH around 5 is essential for barrier function and microbiome balance. ACV helps bridge the pH gap between alkaline shampoos and the ideal acidic skin surface.

A Natural Way to Clear Away Buildup and Flakes

In addition to its antifungal properties, apple cider vinegar excels at dissolving product residue and excess oil. These residues can trap dead skin cells and prevent healthy scalp turnover, causing more visible flakes. By loosening buildup and promoting a cleaner scalp surface, vinegar reveals smoother skin underneath and can reduce itching significantly.

How to Use Apple Cider Vinegar for Dandruff Relief

• Step 1: Mix equal parts raw, unfiltered apple cider vinegar and water in a bottle—start with ½ cup of each for one application.
• Step 2: After shampooing, pour the mixture slowly across your scalp, sectioning your hair if needed to ensure even distribution.
• Step 3: Massage gently with finger pads to stimulate circulation and spread the liquid across the scalp’s surface.
• Step 4: Let the vinegar sit for about 5 minutes. This gives it time to balance your skin’s pH and dislodge buildup.
• Step 5: Rinse thoroughly with lukewarm water to remove all residue while keeping natural oils intact.

With consistent use—2 to 3 times a week—you’ll start to notice not just fewer flakes, but healthier scalp texture too. No need for chemicals or artificial fragrance. Just the pure, acidic strength of nature’s multitasker.

Curious to know how this compares to your current routine? Try it once, and observe how your scalp feels. Often, less really is more when it comes to scalp health.

Aloe Vera Gel: Soothe and Heal Your Scalp the Natural Way

Struggling with itchiness, flakes, and irritation? Your scalp might be crying out for gentle, natural care—and that’s exactly what aloe vera delivers. Known for its cooling sensation and deeply hydrating properties, aloe vera gel offers more than just a temporary fix. It addresses the root of the problem by calming inflammation and helping your skin heal from within.

Aloe vera contains several active compounds, including glucomannans and gibberellins, that encourage cell growth and repair. It’s packed with vitamins A, C, E, and B12—nutrients that are essential for skin renewal. When applied to the scalp, aloe’s bioactive enzymes help reduce redness, relieve itching, and restore balance to irritated areas. Clinical research published in the Journal of Dermatological Treatment found that aloe vera can significantly improve symptoms of seborrheic dermatitis, a common underlying cause of dandruff.

How to Use Aloe Vera for Dandruff Relief

• Choose fresh gel: Cut open a mature aloe vera leaf and extract the clear, jelly-like substance inside. For the best results, avoid store-bought gels with added preservatives or fragrances.
• Apply to the scalp: Massage a generous amount of the fresh gel directly into your scalp, focusing on the areas that feel the most itchy or flaky.
• Let it absorb: Leave the gel on for at least 20 minutes. As it sits, it penetrates deeply into the skin, soothing inflammation and promoting moisture retention.
• Rinse & wash gently: Use a mild, sulfate-free shampoo to wash the aloe off. Harsh shampoos can reverse its soothing effects and disrupt the scalp’s natural barrier.

Try incorporating this routine two to three times a week. As the skin on your scalp becomes more balanced, dandruff symptoms steadily decrease—from fewer flakes to a calmer, healthier feel overall.

Ever felt the instant coolness of aloe on sunburn? That same sensation works wonders for inflammation hiding beneath your hairline. With consistent use, aloe doesn’t just treat symptoms—it builds a stronger foundation for a flake-free future.

Baking Soda Exfoliation: A Simple Step Toward a Flake-Free Scalp

Still seeing those stubborn white flakes after trying oils and rinses? Consider heading straight to your kitchen for a surprisingly effective dandruff remedy—baking soda. This everyday ingredient doesn’t just belong in your muffins; it works as an excellent, natural exfoliant for your scalp.

Why Baking Soda Helps with Dandruff

Baking soda, or sodium bicarbonate, is mildly alkaline and finely textured, which gives it two valuable properties: it gently sloughs off dead skin cells and can disrupt the environment fungi need to thrive. One of the lead contributors to dandruff is Malassezia, a yeast-like fungus naturally present on the scalp. When this organism overgrows, it disrupts skin cell renewal, leading to flakiness. Research published in the journal Mycoses highlighted that alkaline environments potentially inhibit fungal growth, giving baking soda an advantage as a gentle antifungal agent without the use of harsh chemicals.

How to Use Baking Soda as a Scalp Exfoliant

• In the shower, wet your scalp thoroughly with lukewarm water—not hot, as heat can worsen dryness.
• Take about one tablespoon of plain, dry baking soda and apply it directly to your scalp.
• With your fingertips, gently massage the baking soda into your scalp using small circular motions. Focus on areas with visible flaking or itchiness.
• Massage for about one minute—the texture is enough to clear away built-up sebum and dead skin cells without causing irritation.
• Rinse thoroughly with lukewarm water to ensure no residue remains.

One important point: there’s no need for shampoo during this step. Baking soda has cleansing properties on its own. After rinsing, you may notice your scalp feels instantly fresher and smoother, and over time—usually within 1–2 weeks of regular use—flaking reduces significantly.

Have you ever tried using kitchen staples in your hair care routine? This low-cost method fits seamlessly into your weekly schedule and might just become a go-to ritual for resetting your scalp health.

Lemon Juice Scalp Tonic: A Citrus Boost for a Flake-Free Scalp

Ever considered reaching into your fruit bowl for a dandruff solution? Lemon juice, with its refreshing tang and potent astringent properties, does more than liven up your drinks. This simple citrus powerhouse plays a remarkable role in balancing scalp pH and combatting dandruff naturally.

Why Lemon Juice Works Against Dandruff

The power of lemon juice lies in its naturally high content of Vitamin C and citric acid. These compounds help:

• Lower the scalp’s pH, creating an environment that’s less hospitable to Malassezia, the yeast-like fungus commonly linked to dandruff development.
• Control oil production on the scalp, which can otherwise feed microbes and trigger flaking.
• Reduce inflammation and gently exfoliate dead skin cells due to its acidity.

According to a 2018 review in the journal Clinical Microbiology Reviews, acidic environments help suppress the overgrowth of fungi that thrive in oily conditions. Lemon juice, as a natural source of citric acid, delivers exactly that. Plus, a squeeze of lemon provides over 30% of the Daily Value for Vitamin C, which supports skin healing and resilience.

How to Use It: Step-by-Step

• Cut a fresh lemon in half and squeeze the juice into a small bowl.
• Apply the juice directly to your scalp using fingertips or a cotton ball. Focus on areas with visible flakes or itchiness.
• Massage gently and let it sit for about five minutes. Don’t exceed this time—lemon’s acidity can cause dryness if left on too long.
• Rinse thoroughly with lukewarm water. Avoid shampooing immediately after to allow your scalp to absorb the benefits.

Use this tonic once or twice a week. It’s simple, effective, and directly targets the microbial landscape of your scalp.

A Quick Word on Frequency

While lemon juice can be transformative, moderation is key. Excessive application may disrupt your scalp’s natural oils. Aim for consistency rather than intensity—short, regular applications will yield lasting results without dryness.

Think of this treatment as a reset button. When your scalp feels overloaded or greasy, this tonic can restore clarity and calm. Ready to give your scalp a zesty refresh?

Yogurt & Honey Mask: Nourishment Your Scalp Will Thank You For

Ever tried mixing your breakfast ingredients into a scalp mask? While it may sound unconventional, the combination of yogurt and honey creates a powerful remedy that detoxifies the scalp, restores microbial balance, and deeply nourishes your hair roots—all in one go.

Why This Combination Works

Yogurt contains live bacterial cultures—also known as probiotics—that help restore the healthy microbial flora of your scalp. A study published in Beneficial Microbes (2017) demonstrates that topical probiotics can reduce symptoms of seborrheic dermatitis by rebalancing scalp microflora and decreasing inflammation. The lactic acid content in yogurt also breaks down dead skin cells, making flaking less persistent.

Honey, particularly raw or Manuka honey, brings a potent dose of antifungal action to the mix. Research from the Medical Mycology journal (2001) showed that applying diluted raw honey to dandruff-affected areas significantly reduced scaling and itching within a week. Honey’s humectant properties lock in moisture, rehydrating a dry scalp—which is often where dandruff takes root.

How to Apply the Mask

• In a bowl, mix 1/2 cup of plain full-fat yogurt with 1 tablespoon of raw honey.
• Whisk until the mixture forms a smooth paste without lumps.
• Section your hair and apply the mask generously to your scalp, massaging it in with your fingertips.
• Leave the mask on for 20 to 30 minutes—the ideal window for deep penetration.
• Rinse thoroughly with lukewarm water, followed by a mild herbal shampoo if needed.

After just a few uses, the difference becomes unmistakable. The scalp feels less irritated, flaking diminishes, and your hair gains a supple, healthy sheen. Want to boost the effect? Try adding a drop of tea tree oil for an extra antifungal kick.

Harness the Power of Neem: Nature’s Antidote to Itchy, Flaky Scalps

If your scalp feels inflamed, itchy, and persistently flaky, neem might be the ancient healer your skin has been waiting for. This powerful Ayurvedic remedy has been used for centuries across Indian households—and for good reason. Neem leaves are packed with antifungal, antibacterial, and anti-inflammatory compounds that work together to reset the scalp’s microbiome and eliminate dandruff from the root.

The active compounds in neem—such as nimbin, nimbidin, and azadirachtin—are well-documented for their broad-spectrum antimicrobial properties. In a 2011 review published in the Journal of Biological Sciences, neem extracts demonstrated significant antifungal activity against strains like Malassezia—the main fungus responsible for dandruff outbreaks. This makes neem paste a highly effective natural solution for persistent, fungus-induced dandruff.

How to Prepare and Use Neem Paste for Dandruff Relief

• Step 1: Start with a generous handful of fresh neem leaves—about one cup. Rinse thoroughly to remove any surface dust or debris.
• Step 2: Boil the neem leaves in two cups of water for 10–15 minutes. The leaves will soften, and the water will take on a deep green hue.
• Step 3: Let the boiled leaves cool down. Then, blend them with a splash of the boiled water to create a thick, smooth paste.
• Step 4: Apply the neem paste directly to your scalp, making sure to cover all flaky and itchy areas. Massage gently in circular motions.
• Step 5: Leave the paste on your scalp for 30 minutes. Do this in a calm environment where you can relax and let the neem work its magic.
• Step 6: Rinse thoroughly with lukewarm water, avoiding shampoo immediately to let the botanicals continue acting on the scalp post-rinse.

This remedy works particularly well for those struggling with fungal flakes and irritation triggered by microbial imbalance. Unlike commercial shampoos that often strip the scalp, neem nourishes while purifying, creating a clean but balanced environment for new, healthy skin cells to regenerate.

Curious to know how your scalp responds to it? Try neem paste once a week for a month and notice the visible reduction in flakes and itching. How your scalp feels after might surprise you.

Wash Smarter, Not Just More: The Hidden Power of Scalp Hygiene

When dealing with dandruff, it’s easy to reach for treatments or masks first—but without a solid foundation of scalp hygiene, most remedies will only offer temporary relief. If flakes keep coming back, your daily hair care routine might be feeding the cycle rather than fixing it. Let’s talk about what that routine should look like instead.

Stick to a Regular Washing Routine

Flakes aren’t always a result of a dry scalp. In fact, seborrheic dermatitis—the most common type of dandruff—is driven by excess oil and the overgrowth of Malassezia, a yeast that thrives on sebum. If you skip too many washes, you’re giving this yeast an all-you-can-eat buffet. Aim to wash your hair two to three times a week if you have a dry-to-normal scalp, and up to four times if it’s oily. This rhythm helps control sebum buildup and limits fungal growth without stripping your scalp of its natural barrier.

Choose the Right Shampoo: Sulfate-Free and Gentle

Not all shampoos are created equal, and many commercial formulas contain sulfates (like sodium lauryl sulfate) that strip your scalp’s protective oils. While these ingredients create that satisfying lather, they often leave the skin dry, irritated, and prone to flaking—a perfect storm for dandruff. Instead, go for gentle, plant-based surfactants found in shampoos labeled as ‘sulfate-free.’ These formulas cleanse effectively without disrupting your scalp’s microbiome.

Rinse Like You Mean It

Leaving any product behind—whether shampoo, conditioner, or even a natural treatment—can lead to residue buildup. That buildup traps oils and dead skin, creates irritation, and can even worsen flaking. After applying shampoo, take at least 30 seconds to massage the scalp and rinse under running water until hair feels squeaky clean. That extra minute can make all the difference in preventing product overload.

Keep Everything That Touches Your Scalp Clean

Your hairbrush, towels, combs, and pillowcases harbor more than just a few stray hairs. They can be breeding grounds for bacteria, fungi, and old product residue. When used over and over without cleaning, these tools reintroduce microbes to your scalp, undermining progress. Disinfect brushes weekly, wash towels after every 2-3 uses, and switch to fresh pillowcases every few days. Clean tools, clean head, clearer scalp.

Developing a scalp hygiene habit isn’t just about cleaning—it’s about creating an environment where dandruff struggles to survive. Once you’ve got that down, every other natural remedy you use will work better and last longer. Curious how hydration and nutrition support dandruff control from the inside out? Let’s take a look there next.

Nourish from Within: Hydration and Diet for a Healthier Scalp

A flaky scalp isn’t always just about what you put on your head—what you put in your body plays a pivotal role too. If you’ve addressed external factors and still struggle with dandruff, it’s time to look at your hydration levels and what’s on your plate. The scalp, like the rest of your skin, relies on internal nourishment to stay healthy, resilient, and well-balanced.

Hydration: Combat Scalp Dryness from the Inside Out

Water is not just essential for your general wellbeing—it’s critical for scalp health. Dehydration can decrease blood flow to the skin, leading to dryness and flaking. Drinking enough water each day ensures that your skin cells remain plump, your oil glands function effectively, and your scalp maintains its natural moisture barrier.

How much water is enough? Aim for at least 2 to 2.5 liters per day, adjusting based on your activity level and climate. When you’re well-hydrated, your scalp doesn’t go into overdrive trying to compensate for lack of moisture, which can contribute to oily dandruff.

Anti-Dandruff Nutrients to Include in Your Diet

• Omega-3 fatty acids – These healthy fats help reduce inflammation and regulate oil production. Research published in the journal Skin Pharmacology and Physiology notes that omega-3s improve hydration and scalp elasticity. Include fatty fish like salmon and sardines, flaxseeds, and walnuts in your diet.
• Zinc – Zinc plays a critical role in skin function and has natural antibacterial and antifungal properties. A study in the Journal of Dermatology confirmed that zinc supplementation significantly reduced dandruff symptoms. Foods high in zinc include pumpkin seeds, chickpeas, whole grains, and oysters.
• B-vitamins – Particularly B6 and B12, as these support red blood cell production and nutrient delivery to the skin. Biotin (B7) is also directly linked to scalp and hair health. Eggs, bananas, avocados, legumes, and leafy greens are excellent sources.

Probiotics: Supporting a Balanced Scalp Microbiome

The scalp has its own microbiome that needs balance to stay healthy. Dysbiosis—an imbalance in skin flora—can lead to fungal overgrowths linked to dandruff, especially Malassezia. Supporting your gut health with probiotics helps regulate systemic inflammation, which in turn impacts skin conditions like dandruff.

Incorporate probiotic-rich foods such as:

• Yogurt – Choose plain, unsweetened varieties with live cultures like Lactobacillus acidophilus.
• Kefir – A fermented milk drink teeming with over 30 strains of beneficial bacteria.
• Fermented vegetables – Sauerkraut, kimchi, and pickles (fermented in brine, not vinegar) offer fiber and live cultures that nourish the gut.

When you nourish your body with water, targeted nutrients, and live cultures, your scalp reflects that internal balance. The mechanisms are interconnected: hydration keeps skin supple, nutrients restore and repair, and probiotics regulate internal systems that influence skin clarity. If dandruff is persistent, your plate could be your most effective treatment tool.