1. Use Anti-Dandruff Shampoo

The easiest way to get rid of dandruff is by using an anti-dandruff shampoo. A shampoo dedicated to treating dandruff mostly contains ingredients like salicylic acid, zinc pyrithione, selenium sulfide, etc. [1]

  • Salicylic acid removes the flake build-up from your scalp. It works like a keratolytic which means it influences the protein structure of your skin. It helps reduce irritation and skin inflammation.
  • On the other hand, zinc pyrithione is an antifungal that provides relief from fungal infection. It is a mild compound that controls dandruff pretty well.
  • Selenium sulfide is great to treat the yeast infection which causes dandruff. Mostly, people with coloured hair use a shampoo that has selenium sulfide.
  • Tar is another component often found in anti-dandruff shampoos. Coal tar slows down skin cell production and reduces both skin irritation as well as inflammation caused by acne.

Wash your hair and scalp using anti-dandruff shampoo at least twice a week. It should resolve the problem to an extent.

2. Hot Oil Massage

As mentioned before, dry scalp is home for dandruff. Reducing the dryness can provide a solution to your dandruff and dandruff-related acne. Hot oil massage is a great option to control the lack of moisture in your scalp. Multiple natural oils that are beneficial for your hair and help in reducing dandruff, can be used.

  • Coconut oil is considered the natural remedy for dandruff. A study reveals that coconut oil has evident effects on skin hydration and dryness. Moreover, it can aid in reducing skin eczema and other skin conditions that can possibly trigger acne. In fact, the application of virgin coconut oil on acne reduces acne symptoms.
  • Tea tree oil has been used for centuries to treat multiple skin conditions as well as hair issues. Dandruff and acne can be controlled with tea tree oil. It has anti-microbial and anti-inflammatory properties. Reviews suggest that tea tree oil is competent to deal with acne-causing fungal strains.
  • Since both coconut oil and tea tree oil can be used against acne, direct application on your face would also be beneficial. Try massaging your face with two to three drops of either of the oils before you go to sleep.

3. Aloe Vera Application

Aloe vera is a succulent plant used for various purposes which include skincare, hair care and many health conditions. Many big brands of skincare products use aloe vera as their key compound.

  • Aloe vera always has a calming effect on the skin. Thus it is used to treat inflammation, cold sores, acne etc. 
  • If your scalp is itchy and scaly, aloe vera application soothes your skin and reduces irritation.
  • Being antibacterial and antifungal, aloe vera fights against dandruff. 
  • You can apply aloe vera on your face directly to get rid of the stinging feeling.

4. Apply Apple Cider Vinegar

Apple cider vinegar offers a wide range of health benefits including the treatment of dandruff.

  • It has an acidic effect on the dead skin cells of your scalp. Hence, the dead skin cells start shedding off.
  • In addition, It restores the pH balance of your scalp and stops the fungal growth which causes dandruff.
  • Test tube study shows that apple cider vinegar has the potential to slow down few strains of fungus that may trigger dandruff and dandruff-related acne.5. Massage With Lemon Juice
  • Lemon has citric acid which fights against the fungus that triggers dandruff.
  • If you massage lemon juice on your scalp, it will remove the excess sebum oil from your skin, and shed off the dead skin cells.
  • You can mix lemon juice with any carrier oil such as coconut, tea tree oil, rosemary, almond oil etc.