Dandruff is a condition of the scalp which results in the formation of white flakes. It is a very common condition that can cause a great deal of social embarrassment as the white flakes are quite visible in the hair and on the clothes. The cells of the skin are in a constant process of renewal. As the skin cells of the scalp go through renewal, new cells are formed which causes the old cells to fall off. In individuals with dandruff the entire process takes place a lot faster resulting in greater quantities of dead skin which appear as white flakes.
There are several causes of dandruff. People who do not regularly brush their hair are preventing the natural shedding of dead skin and as such are more prone to dandruff. People who are at an increased vulnerability to yeast also are at risk for dandruff. Such dandruff improves during warm weather and worsens during winter. This is known to occur since the ultra violet radiation in sunlight acts against the yeast. Winter aggravates the dandruff due to coldness of the air. Those with dry skin also tend to get affected by dandruff. These dandruff flakes are dry and smaller. A condition known as seborrheic dermatitis is known to increase susceptibility to dandruff. This condition can affect other parts of the skin as well. The flakes of dandruff in such cases are oily and white or yellowish in color. Other conditions of the skin such as eczema and psoriasis can also result in dandruff. Use of harsh hair care products may also cause itching and dryness, leading to flaking of the skin on the scalp. Dandruff can also occur when the fungus malassezia affects the scalp. Some even believe that inadequate intake of the B vitamins and zinc can lead to dandruff.
Apple cider vinegar is a well known remedy for treating dandruff. After washing the hair with a mild shampoo, a mixture of one part water and two parts apple cider vinegar may be applied directly to the hair. A few drops of essential oils such as lavender or rosemary may also be added for fragrance. Massage the mixture gently into the hair and allow it to dry. It is not necessary to rinse the hair after this. However if the smell is bothersome, the hair can be washed. For severe dandruff, a stronger dose of apple cider vinegar could be used.