Natural Treatments for Mild Cases of Dandruff

Dandruff is a condition that affects many men and women. Contrary to popular belief, dandruff is rarely caused by an allergic reaction to chemicals in hair gels/sprays, oils, improper hygiene or the right or wrong shampoo. Dandruff has been shown to be the result of three factors: (1) Skin oil; (2) a fungus that exist in the scalp known as malassezia yeasts; and (3) individual susceptibility. Malassezia occurs normally on the scalp, and often without causing problems. Stressors such as hormone imbalances, stress, immune suppression, illness, or increased oil production can cause the yeast to grow and develop into a mild inflammation that produces excessive dead skin cells. The dead cells mix with oil and clump together, making them appear white and flaky. Left untreated this can be very serious. In this week’s installment, we’ll discuss a couple of fixes for mild cases of dandruff.

Tea tree oil has been shown to have anti-fungal properties, which can help control dandruff and give you a healthier scalp and flake free hair. To incorporate tea tee oil into your shampooing regimen, you will need organic tea tree oil and your usual shampoo. While in the shower, pour your usual amount of shampoo into the palm of your hand and add 2 or three drops of the oil into the shampoo. Mix the two well by rubbing your palms together and apply thoroughly to your hair. You will instantly feel a tingly sensation on your scalp. Leave the shampoo in your hair for 5 minutes and then rinse. You will want to do this 3 times a week and you should see results within 2 weeks.

Another way to treat mild cases of dandruff is with Listerine. The original, amber-colored Listerine, has various ingredients that help fight fungus and works like an antiseptic. For this quick fix, all you’ll need is a spray bottle, pour the Listerine into the spray bottle and take it into the shower with you. After you shampoo your hair, but before you apply conditioner, spray Listerine onto your scalp and let it sit in your hair for 5 minutes and then rinse thoroughly.

Another little known way to treat dandruff is with beets. This works best for dark hair.  You will 5 – 6 need whole white beets, a spray bottle, and a shower cap. Boil the beets in water. Once boiling remove the beets from the water; feel free to munch on them as a snack or in your favorite salad as you let the beet water cool down. Once it has cooled place into a spray bottle. Spray the beet water onto your scalp, pleace the shower cap over your hair, and leave overnight. Initially you will want to do this every night until you begin to see results, usually within 2 weeks, and then you can continue this treatment 2 or 3 times a week.

Lastly, don’t forget to try out last week’s apple cider vinegar rinse, which will certainly cleanse the scalp and help to restore to the natural ph balance.


All the suggestions in this installment are for mild cases of dandruff. If you have red or broken skin around your scalp or on your scalp, it is recommended that you consult with a physician.

Remember, Pretty Girls’ Pantry always loves to hear your feedback about your pantry makeover experience, so e-mail us at prettygirlspantry@gmail.com and let us know. In the meantime, don’t forget to check back with us next week for another installment of natural beauty fixes straight from your pantry.