Lemon has many natural benefits for reducing problems associated with dandruff. Using lemon on dandruff helps to reduce scalp itch. Lemon helps balance potenz hydrogen (pH) levels and reduces excessive oils that can be a factor in dandruff. A mild lemon juice rinse effectively cleans away leftover soap or chemicals that can cause itching and flaking. Additionally, using lemon on dandruff problems provides an antibacterial action.
Severe dandruff is referred to as seborrhea, or seborrheic dermatitis. Individuals who have severe dandruff symptoms should seek the advice of a dermatologist or physician. Another underlying cause might be psoriasis, which makes a visit to a specialist important. Common dandruff symptoms include flakes of skin that appear on clothing, as well as inflammation, severe itching and blisters on the scalp.
Causes of milder dandruff symptoms range from dry, cold weather to fungal yeast infections. Prolonged exposure to dry indoor heat can be just as damaging to the scalp as dry, cold weather. Poor nutrition, including zinc or B-complex deficiency, or the use of alkaline shampoos can be to blame. Individuals might have problems with dandruff outbreaks during times of high stress or hormonal changes. Even the failure to rinse thoroughly after shampooing can lead to a dandruff outbreak.
Using lemon on dandruff problems provides benefits that are similar to those of anti-dandruff shampoos. Over-the-counter and prescription shampoos contain antifungal and antibacterial agents. Shampoos that are designed to control dandruff work by normalizing or altering the pH level of the scalp. On the pH scale of 0 to 14, 7 indicates neutrality, and this is the level needed for a healthy scalp. Lemon juice cuts through excess oil and provides a pH balance that can reduce the problems that are caused by excessive dryness.
Using lemon on dandruff problems provides an inexpensive, natural home remedy that also adds shine to the hair. Lemons can be purchased whole in the produce section; bottled lemon juice will also work. Bottled juice should not contain any other additives. A spoonful of lemon juice mixed with a glass of warm water can be used as a rinse.
Lemon juice and an egg can be used as a hair mask. The lemon and egg should be mixed into a paste and massaged into the scalp. This mixture can be left on the scalp for 10 to 15 minutes and then washed out with a mild shampoo. Other ingredients can be added to a lemon juice treatment, including coconut oil or olive oil, to personalize the remedy.
When using lemon on dandruff problems, one should not go outside in the sun with the lemon juice applied to the hair or scalp. Sunshine will work with lemon and cause the hair to lighten. If using lemon worsens the condition or irritates the scalp, the advice of a healthcare professional should be sought before its use is continued.