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Winter Dandruff: Tips and Natural Remedies for Dandruff

Image of scalp with dandruff and Coco & Eve Honey Bliss Hair SetIn this article:

Can’t shake the flakes? You’ve come to the right place! In this go-to guide to tackling winter dandruff, we explore why the arrival of colder weather triggers more scalp discomfort and flakes for many of us – and how you can bid adieu to dandruff while nourishing a dry and desiccated scalp. 

 

We’ll touch on the importance of avoiding scorching hot water, brushing regularly, and how to avoid fungal overgrowth, and delve into DIY and over-the-counter remedies like apple cider vinegar, scalp scrubs and more. Read on!

Signs of Dandruff. Shop haircare

Dandruff is a common scalp condition characterized by the shedding of small white or gray flakes of dead skin from the scalp. Usually on your favorite black jumper…

Often accompanied by itching, dandruff is primarily caused by the overgrowth of a yeast-like fungus called Malassezia, which is naturally present on the scalp. When this fungus proliferates (often triggered by excess oil), it leads to accelerated shedding of skin cells. 

However, more than one scalp condition causes itching and flakiness – and knowing the difference is crucial to plan your treatment approach.

Dry Scalp: While a dry scalp can look like dandruff, it isn’t associated with fungal overgrowth but is simply a sign of thirsty skin lacking moisture.

Psoriasis: A chronic autoimmune condition, psoriasis can affect various parts of the body, including the scalp. Scalp psoriasis leads to the rapid production of skin cells, causing thick, red patches covered with silvery scales. Which may then flake off. 

Seborrheic Dermatitis:
This uncomfortable skin condition is associated with the same yeast that contributes to dandruff. However, it is more severe and involves greater inflammation, with red, inflamed skin and excessive oiliness.

When the temperature plummets, it’s common to experience more scalp discomfort and flaking. This could either be due to a dry scalp or a flareup of dandruff triggered by your cold-weather habits.

Causes of dandruff. Shop haircare

Changes in Temperature  

More flakes than you can shake a ski pole at? You’re more likely dealing with a dry scalp than dandruff as dandruff tends to thrive in hot, humid, fungus-friendly weather. A lack of humidity paired with central heating and more frequent use of the hairdryer, on the other hand, can really make scalp moisture do a disappearing act.

Less Frequent Hair Washing

If you’re cutting out wash days to avoid stepping out with wet hair, you’re not doing your dandruff-prone scalp any favors. Infrequent washing of the hair can allow the accumulation of oils and dead skin cells, providing a favorable environment for Malassezia to proliferate and bring on the flakes.

Stress 

Whatever the season, stress and fatigue can indirectly change how much oil your scalp produces. Known to trigger the release of certain hormones, such as cortisol, stress can increase the activity of the sebaceous glands. An increase in stress levels may stimulate these glands to produce more sebum – leading to an oilier scalp and a feeding frenzy for our favorite flake-inducing fungus. Yet another reason to roll out that yoga mat…

Not getting your eight hours of shut-eye? Fatigue and lack of sleep can also disrupt your hormonal balance, contributing to an increase in oiliness on the scalp and exacerbating dandruff.

Dealing with winter dandruff is frustrating but trust us, there are some simple tweaks to your haircare routine that will help stop those flakes from falling.

Anti-dandruff Tips. Shop haircare

1. Avoid Washing Your Hair with Scorching Hot Water

If you’re noticing a sudden influx of flakes during the colder weather, check your shower temperature. Many of us can’t resist warming up under scorching hot water but this can wreak havoc with your skin – including your scalp. Hot water can sap moisture and leave your scalp, dry, flaky, and irritated. So, try to keep things lukewarm. 

2. Exfoliate Your Scalp

If you’re dealing with a moderate amount of flaking, exfoliating the scalp can help. Regular use of an exfoliant such as our Deep Clean Scalp Scrub can slough away dry skin cells and product build-up while promoting healthy hair growth and helping to combat excess oil.

Try applying with our Scalp Scrub Applicator for a targeted, mess-free application.

3. Brush Your Hair More

Brushing your hair isn’t just about eliminating knots; it’s also an essential part of any anti-flake-fighting routine. Firstly, it stimulates blood circulation to the scalp, delivering essential nutrients and oxygen which reduces the risk of dryness and flakiness.

Helping distribute the natural oils (sebum) produced by the scalp, brushing prevents their accumulation at the roots – which can lead to fungal proliferation. It also lightly exfoliates to remove dead skin cells and excess product build-up and supports a healthy scalp microbiome by maintaining a (good) balance of microorganisms, including bacteria and fungi.

Our Leaf Detangling Brush is a great option for daily brushing as it’s suitable for all hair types and can be used on wet or dry strands. Or try our Tangle Tamer which is also ideal for distributing a hair mask.  

4. Avoid Tying Up Wet Hair

We get the temptation to chuck wet hair up in a bun, but maybe reconsider this habit as the moisture and lack of air circulation can cause fungi and bacteria to grow. Including dandruff-causing Malassezia.

To reduce the risk, allow hair to air-dry before tying it up. You can also speed up drying with a microfibre towel.  

5. Moisturize and Use Oils on Your Scalp

Whether you’re dealing with dryness or dandruff, make sure you keep that scalp well moisturized! Using a hydrating shampoo a nourishing hair and scalp mask will help relieve tightness, itching and flakes caused by a parched scalp. 

And while it might sound counter-intuitive to apply oils to an oily, dandruff-prone scalp, certain oils can be very beneficial. For example, coconut oil (found in our Pro-Youth Mask) has anti-fungal and antimicrobial properties that can help combat the overgrowth of Malassezia – the cause of dandruff.

Benefits of Honey Bliss Set. Save now

There are several natural treatments that may assist with dandruff and/or a dry scalp. Here are three of the most popular. 

Apple Cider Vinegar  

Apple cider vinegar (ACV) is considered a beneficial home remedy for dandruff. Firstly, its acidic nature is believed to help balance the pH level of the scalp, creating an environment less conducive to the growth of dandruff-causing yeast, Malassezia. 

It also has mild antifungal properties, and its acidity may facilitate exfoliation, helping to prevent the formation of flakes by removing dead skin cells from the scalp.

Apple cider vinegar treatment

  • Mix equal parts of raw, unfiltered apple cider vinegar and water, starting with a 1:1 ratio. Adjust based on your scalp's sensitivity.
  • Using a spray bottle, apply the solution directly to your scalp.
  • Gently massage it into your scalp, ensuring complete coverage.
  • Leave the solution on your scalp for 5-10 minutes to allow it to penetrate. 
  • Rinse your hair thoroughly with water. You can also use a mild, sulfate-free shampoo.
  • Follow up with a light, moisturizing conditioner to keep your hair hydrated.

Use the treatment once or twice weekly (do a patch test first) and adjust based on your scalp's response. Consistency is key and it may take a few weeks to see results.

Baking Soda  

While some people may find using baking soda on the scalp helps manage dandruff, it’s not suitable for everyone. As it is alkaline, too frequent use may disrupt the natural pH balance of your scalp, potentially leading to dryness and irritation. So, it’s a good idea to discuss it with a health professional first and use it with caution.

Baking soda for dandruff

  • Mix a small amount of baking soda with water to form a paste. 
  • Try starting with 1-2 tablespoons of baking soda and enough water to make a paste 
  • Gently massage the baking soda paste into your wet scalp, focusing on areas with dandruff. Avoid getting the mixture into your eyes.
  • Allow the paste to sit on your scalp for a short period (about 5-10 minutes).
  • Rinse your hair and scalp thoroughly with water to remove the baking soda.
  • Follow with conditioner as baking soda can be alkaline and may leave hair feeling coarse.

Before using, perform a patch test on a small area of your scalp to ensure you don't have an adverse reaction. Use this treatment sparingly, as excessive use may cause dryness and irritation. If you have sensitive skin or a pre-existing scalp condition, consult with a dermatologist or healthcare professional.

Before and After image of using Coco & Eve's Pro Youth Scalp and Hair Mask by casuallyhannah. Shop Pro Youth Scalp and Hair Mask

Honey and Lemon   

Honey and lemon are a popular pairing for dry, flaky scalps and dandruff symptoms. While honey has well-known moisturizing and antimicrobial properties, lemon juice contains citric acid. This acid can help balance the pH of the scalp which may be beneficial as an imbalanced pH can contribute to dandruff.

This natural honey and lemon scalp treatment is a gentle way to address dryness and itchiness. 

Honey and lemon scalp treatment

  • Mix 1 tablespoon of raw honey with 1 tablespoon of freshly squeezed lemon juice.
  • Dilute the mixture with 2 tablespoons of warm water.
  • Apply the mixture to the scalp, gently massaging it in.
  • Leave it on for 15-20 minutes.
  • Rinse thoroughly with lukewarm water.

Use this treatment once a week or as needed. As always, perform a patch test before using.

Goodbye to Dandruff in Winter

So, if you’re experiencing more flakes than a snowstorm, you could be suffering from winter dandruff – caused by yeast overgrowth – or a dry scalp that’s crying out for moisture. Either way, the tips and tricks above will help you ditch winter hair dramas and promote a balanced scalp and healthy, hydrated strands.

For more advice on all things hair and scalp care related, plus easy haircare routines, new product highlights and more, visit the blog. Or shop the Coco & Eve hair products collection for everything you need to nourish, repair, treat and style your strands.

 

Edited By: Pip Jarvis and Iris 

 

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