Use neem and lemon to remove dandruff from hair, says my mom

Women with dry scalp often have to deal with dandruff, which causes flaky skin and itching on a person’s scalp. I have dry skin, and hair, and I often faced the dandruff problem, especially during winter months. I used to wash my hair with an anti-dandruff shampoo, and I didn’t have complaints. But after I took a break, the dandruff made a comeback. My mom told me to mix neem (Azadirachta indica) with lemon to get rid of dandruff naturally. According to her, it is the best home remedy for dandruff removal. I tried neem and lemon for dandruff removal, and was happy with the results.

What is dandruff?

Dandruff is a common scalp condition that is visible in the form of visible flaking of dead skin cells from the scalp. They are usually harmless if occasional, but might cause itching and irritation, says dermatologist Dr Neha Khuraana.

What are the causes of dandruff?

Some of the common causes are:

• Dry skin
• Seborrheic dermatitis (oily and inflamed scalp)
• Fungal overgrowth (Malassezia)
• Sensitivity to hair products
• Medical conditions like psoriasis or eczema.

Are neem and lemon good to get rid of dandruff?

Both neem and lemon are powerful ingredients that help with dandruff removal, says the expert. Here is how both the natural ingredients act on your hair –

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1. Neem

Neem’s antimicrobial and antifungal properties fight dandruff-causing bacteria. Neem leaves extracts can prevent the growth of Pityrosporum ovale fungus, which is the main cause of dandruff, according to a 2010 study published in the E-International Scientific Research Journal. Its anti-inflammatory properties can also soothe scalp irritation. Neem has astringent properties that help regulate oil production on the scalp, says the expert.

2. Lemon

Exfoliating properties of lemon can loosen and remove dead skin cells. It has astringent properties that can help control oiliness. Antibacterial properties in lemon may aid in scalp hygiene, says Dr Khuraana.

How to use neem and lemon for dandruff removal?

People use various home remedies to remove dandruff. Here are effective ones with neem and lemon.

1. Make a neem paste

• Grind neem leaves into a fine paste.
• Add a few drops of lemon juice to make a thick consistency.
• Apply this paste to your scalp, focusing on the flaky areas.
• Leave it on for 20 to 30 minutes then rinse thoroughly with a gentle shampoo.

2. Neem oil and lemon

• Take a few drops of neem oil and mix it with a carrier oil like coconut oil.
• Mix it well with a teaspoon of lemon juice.
• Massage the mixture onto your scalp.
• Leave it on for 20 minutes then wash your hair with a gentle shampoo.

You can use coconut oil with neem and lemon, as it can moisturise the scalp and hair, while also preventing excessive dryness, says the expert.
Aloe vera is another ingredient that can soothe the scalp and hydrate it.
Tea tree oil can help too, as it contains antibacterial and antifungal properties that can fight off dandruff.

Use the neem and lemon home remedy for dandruff removal once or twice a week. Remember that its overuse can cause scalp irritation or dryness, so it is important to monitor how your scalp responds to it, says the expert.

Can women with all hair types use this home remedy for dandruff?

While it is generally safe, you must avoid using it if –

• You are allergic to neem or citrus fruits.
• Your scalp is very sensitive.
• You have eczema or psoriasis on the scalp.

Do a patch test on your inner arm first to check if you have any allergic reactions.

Stay cautious while you try out a new ingredient, especially the ones used in home remedies, and remember to use in moderation.