15 Effective Hair Masks For Dandruff

Are you looking for the best hair masks for dandruff and scalp care? If yes, we are here to assist you!

Dandruff is a real annoyance! Several individuals who have it can relate to getting out of the bath and having their scratchy moments later. Your scalp is always irritated, and you cannot always determine whether it is oily or dry. It also leaves your hair looking flat and lifeless.

Although several fragrance-free shampoos and treatments on the market promise to reduce dandruff, the chemicals are often harmful to your tresses. However, here’s the thing: Hair masks with natural and herbal ingredients are an option for dealing with the problem.

Hair masks can help eliminate dandruff while nourishing and conditioning your hair. They address the root cause of your scalp flaking, itchiness, inflammation, and dandruff. We have compiled a list of the top 15 hair masks to help you get rid of a flaky scalp. Keep reading.

15 Effective Hair Masks For Dandruff

1. Yogurt, Honey, And Lemon Mask

The citric acid in lemon juice can help adjust the pH of your hair (1). Yogurt can help in repairing hair damage and conditioning your hair (2). The topical application of honey can help in improving conditions like dandruff and seborrheic dermatitis (3).

You Will Need

• 1/2 cup yogurt
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon honey

Processing Time

• 30 minutes

Process

1. Combine all the ingredients in a bowl until you get a smooth mixture.
2. Apply this soothing mixture to your hair, starting at the roots and working your way down to the tips for complete hair nourishment.
3. Once your scalp and hair are entirely covered in the mask, wait for 30 minutes.
4. Wash the hair mask off with a mild sulfate-free shampoo.

How Often?

• Once or twice a week.

2. Green Tea, Peppermint Essential Oil, Vinegar Hair Rinse

Green tea exhibits antifungal effects and can help in getting rid of Malassezia fungus that causes dandruff (4). Peppermint essential oil provides a cooling effect and helps in getting rid of dandruff (5). The vinegar in the rinse helps balance scalp pH and oil production.

You Will Need

• 1 cup green tea
• 2-3 drops peppermint essential oil
• 1 teaspoon white vinegar

Processing Time

• 5 minutes

Process

1. Combine the ingredients in a jug and set it aside.
2. Rinse your hair under running water and then pour the green tea rinse through it.
3. Leave the rinse on for 5 minutes while massaging your scalp.
4. Wash your hair with a mild sulfate-free shampoo and condition.

How Often?

• Once a week.

Note: Be careful if you are using concentrated 100% peppermint oil. Avoid direct contact with the skin as it can cause burns.

3. Hibiscus And Fenugreek Hair Pack

Hibiscus leaves have been used to treat scalp conditions like dandruff since ancient times (6). A poly herbal hair oil that included hibiscus extracts was found to exhibit potential anti-dandruff activity (7). Fenugreek seed paste can not only promote hair growth but also treat dandruff (8).

You Will Need

• 10-12 hibiscus leaves
• 1 tablespoon fenugreek seeds
• 1/2 cup yogurt

Processing Time

• 30 minutes

Process

1. Soak a tablespoon of fenugreek seeds overnight in a cup of water.
2. In the morning, blend the fenugreek seeds with the hibiscus leaves.
3. Add half a cup of yogurt to the mixture and mix until you get a smooth, consistent paste.
4. Apply this nourishing hair pack to your hair, starting at the roots and working your way down to the tips.
5. Once your scalp and hair are entirely covered in the mask, wait for 30 minutes.
6. Wash the hair mask off with a mild sulfate-free shampoo.

How Often?

• 2-3 times a week.

Note: Ensure a smooth blended fenugreek paste to avoid any particles that can stick to hair and make it difficult to remove during washing.

Did You Know?

Women in China use hibiscus flowers to dye their eyebrows and hair.

4. Banana, Honey, Lemon, And Olive Oil

This is an excellent mask for people with dry hair. Bananas can help condition your hair and control dandruff (9). Olive oil can help make your hair soft and strengthen it (2). The citric acid in lemon juice can help balance your hair’s pH (1). Honey can help in reducing dandruff (3).

You Will Need

• 2 ripe bananas
• 1 tablespoon honey
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice

Processing Time

• 30 minutes

Process

1. Mash two ripe bananas in a bowl until you obtain a lump-free paste.
2. Add a tablespoon of olive oil, honey, and lemon juice (each) to the mashed banana. Mix well to get a consistent paste.
3. Apply this repairing and restorative mask to your scalp and hair and leave it in for 30 minutes.
4. Wash your hair with a mild sulfate-free shampoo.

How Often?

• Once a week.

5. Avocado Hair Mask For Dandruff

Avocados are rich in antioxidantsⁱ  XMan-made or natural substances that can prevent oxidation and reduce and delay cell damage caused by free radicals. that help maintain scalp health. This deep conditioning mask soothes the scalp and restores luster to hair (2). Olive oil softens your hair and strengthens it.

You Will Need

• 1 ripe avocado
• 2 tablespoons honey
• 2 tablespoons olive oil

Processing Time

• 45 minutes

Process

1. Mash a ripe avocado with a fork in a bowl until it is completely free of lumps.
2. Add two tablespoons each of honey and olive oil to the mashed avocado. Mix until well combined.
3. Apply this hair strengthening pack to your hair, starting at the roots and working your way down to the tips.
4. Once your scalp and hair are entirely covered in the mask, wait for 45 minutes.
5. Wash the hair mask off with a mild sulfate-free shampoo.

How Often?

• Once a week.

6. Coconut Oil For Dandruff

Coconut oil has shown to help relieve mild to moderate atopic dermatitisⁱ  XA chronic skin condition characterized by irritation, dryness, inflammation, and red rashes on the skin. (10). Hence, it may also help in getting rid of dandruff. Coconut oil penetrates the hair shaft easily and reduces hair damage (11).

You Will Need

• 3 tablespoons coconut oil

Processing Time

• 45 minutes

Process

1. Heat coconut oil until it is slightly warm.
2. Start massaging the warm coconut oil into your scalp with your fingertips.
3. Massage your scalp for about 10-15 minutes, and once your whole scalp is covered, work the rest of the oil into your hair.
4. Wait for an additional 30 minutes with the oil in your hair.
5. After the 30 minutes have passed, wash the oil out with a mild sulfate-free shampoo.

How Often?

• 1-2 times a week.

Ariane, a YouTube blogger, tried some natural remedies for dandruff, dry hair, and hair growth. She said, “Personally, my hair loves coconut oil. This is coconut oil, meat and even coconut water. It will bring hydration to my hair and the fat is going to help it seal it in (i).”

7. Egg And Yogurt Hair Mask For Dandruff

Eggs and yogurt provide your scalp with the nourishment and moisture it needs (2). If you have mild dandruff, a little extra conditioning and nourishment are all it takes to tackle the problem.

You Will Need

• 2 egg whites (oily hair)/ 2 egg yolks (dry hair)/ 1 whole egg (normal hair)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 cup yogurt
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice

Processing Time

• 20 minutes

Process

1. In a bowl, whisk the ingredients until you get a consistent mixture.
2. Apply this moisturizing hair pack to your hair, starting at the roots and working your way down to the tips.
3. Once your scalp and hair are entirely covered in the mask, wait for 20 minutes.
4. Wash the hair mask off with a mild sulfate-free shampoo. Ensure that you use cool water to rinse your hair as hot/warm water can ‘cook’ the egg.

How Often?

• Once a week.

8. Fenugreek Hair Mask For Dandruff

Fenugreek is one of the most common remedies for dandruff. It has strong antifungal properties that boost scalp health and tackle dandruff (8).

You Will Need

• 4 tablespoons fenugreek seeds
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice

Processing Time

• 30 minutes

Process

1. Soak four tablespoons of fenugreek seeds in water overnight.
2. In the morning, blend the seeds with water to get a smooth paste.
3. Add one tablespoon of lemon juice to this paste.
4. Apply this hair pack to your hair, starting at the roots and working your way down to the tips.
5. Once your scalp and hair are entirely covered in the mask, wait for 30 minutes.
6.  Wash the hair mask off with a mild sulfate-free shampoo.

How Often?

• Once a week.

Trivia

Fenugreek seeds are known as ‘Greek hay’ in Latin as they were used as animal fodder by the ancient Greeks and Romans.

A - Antifungal Activity Of Fenugreek Leaf Extract

9. Apple Cider Vinegar Hair Mask For Dandruff

Apple cider vinegar can help in not only reducing dandruff but also cleansing your scalp and hair of product build-up (2). It also balances the pH levels of the scalp.

You Will Need

• 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
• 1/4 cup water

Processing Time

• 15 minutes

Process

1. Combine water and apple cider vinegar in a spray bottle.
2.  Spritz the solution all over your hair and scalp and wait for 15 minutes.
3. Wash your hair with a mild sulfate-free shampoo and condition.

How Often?

• Twice a week.

10. Egg Yolk And Olive Oil Hair Mask For Dandruff

Egg yolk contains fatty acids and vitamin A that keeps your hair shiny while preventing dandruff (2). Olive oil, on the other hair, helps condition your hair and also contributes towards maintaining scalp health.

You Will Need

• 2 egg yolks
• 2 tablespoons olive oil

Processing Time

• 1 hour

Process

1. Whisk the ingredients in a bowl until you get a smooth mixture.
2. Apply this hair pack to your hair, starting at the roots and working your way down to the tips.
3. Once your scalp and hair are entirely covered in the mask, wait for an hour.
4. Wash the hair mask off with a mild sulfate-free shampoo. Use cool/lukewarm water to rinse your hair.

How Often?

1-2 times a week.

11. Aloe Vera Hair Mask For Dandruff

Aloe vera was found to be effective in relieving seborrheic dermatitisⁱ  XA common inflammatory skin condition that causes itchy skin, rashes, and scaly patches, especially on the scalp. , a condition that can cause stubborn dandruff (12). It also has antifungalⁱ  XRefers to the ability to inhibit the growth of fungal pathogens in your skin, hair, and nails. properties that can help in treating dandruff (13).

You Will Need

• 4 tablespoons pure aloe vera gel
• 2-3 drops eucalyptus essential oil

Processing Time

• 30 minutes-1 hour

Process

1. Combine four tablespoons of pure aloe vera gel with two to three drops of eucalyptus oil.
2. Apply this hair pack, starting at the roots and working your way down to the tips. Make sure to focus on your scalp.
3. Once your scalp and hair are entirely covered in the mask, wait for 30 minutes to an hour.
4. Rinse the hair mask off under cool/lukewarm running water.

How Often?

• 2-3 times a week.

12. Mayonnaise Hair Mask For Dandruff

The sour curd and aloe vera in this hair mask efficiently tackle dandruff, while the mayonnaise moisturizes your hair. Mayonnaise can also help in maintaining scalp health because of its vinegar content.

You Will Need

• 1/2 cup sour curd
• 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
• 2 tablespoons aloe vera

Processing Time

• 1 hour

Process

1. Combine all the ingredients in a bowl until you get a smooth mixture.
2. Apply this hair pack to your hair, starting at the roots and working your way down to the tips.
3. Once your scalp and hair are entirely covered in the mask, wait for an hour.
4. Wash the hair mask off with a mild sulfate-free shampoo.

How Often?

• 1-2 times a week.

13. Onion Hair Mask For Dandruff

Onion has antifungal properties (14). These properties can help in getting rid of the dandruff-causing fungus. Onion juice was also found to encourage hair growth (15).

You Will Need

• 1 large onion

Processing Time

• 1 hour

Process

1. Blend a large onion until you get a smooth, consistent paste.
2. Apply this paste to your hair, starting at the roots and working your way down to the tips.
3. Once your scalp and hair are entirely covered in the mask, wait for an hour.
4. Wash the hair mask off with a mild sulfate-free shampoo.

How Often?

• Once a week.

14. Garlic And Honey Hair Mask

Garlic has been used for ages to treat dandruff (16). Honey can not only condition your hair but also help in improving dandruff (3).

You Will Need

• 6 garlic cloves
• 7 tablespoons honey

Processing Time

• 10 minutes

Process

1. Crush six garlic cloves in a bowl and let it sit for 10 minutes.
2. After 10 minutes have passed, add seven tablespoons of honey and mix the two ingredients.
3. Apply the mixture to your scalp and hair and leave it in for about 5-10 minutes.
4. Rinse the hair mask out and wash your hair with a mild sulfate-free shampoo.

How Often?

• Once a week.

15. Yogurt, Tea Tree Oil, And Olive Oil Hair Mask

Research shows that tea tree oil is effective in the treatment of dandruff and helps in cooling the itchiness and redness of the scalp (17). Yogurt and olive oil can condition your hair (2). This pack works well for all hair types. But if you have natural oil hair, limit using it to once a week.

You Will Need

• 4-5 drops of tea tree oil
• 1 tablespoon of yogurt
• 1 tablespoon of olive oil

For The Tea Tree Rinse

• 8-10 drops of tea tree oil
• A cup of water

Processing Time

• 5- 10 minutes

Process

1. Mix the ingredients until the paste is smooth.
2. Thoroughly apply it to your hair from the roots to the tips..
3. Massage your scalp for about 5 to 10 minutes.
4. Keep on for about an hour.
5. Wash it off with shampoo.
6. Add 8-10 drops of tea tree oil to a cup of water.
7. Wash your hair in a final rinse with this mix.

How Often?

• Once a week.

While you may use hair masks to reduce flakiness and symptoms associated with dandruff, it’s important not to rely only on home remedies. Dandruff can be a persistent issue and you must consult a doctor and use prescribed topical medications.
The remedies discussed in the article may provide some relief for mild symptoms and flakiness, you must also consider the severity of dandruff and your overall health. Always conduct a patch test beforehand to rule out any chances of allergic reactions.
If you experience uncontrollable itchiness and dryness after using these remedies, consult a dermatologist immediately. They will help diagnose the cause of the dandruff and prescribe treatments accordingly. The doctor may also prescribe medicated shampoos to reduce dandruff. They contain anti-fungal ingredients, which may help eliminate dandruff-causing fungus and reduce flakiness, itching, and other symptoms. You may also use the hair masks in conjunction with the medicated shampoos but do consult the doctor before doing so.

Infographic: Top 5 Anti-Dandruff Essential Oils

A soothing essential oil can add a finishing touch to any DIY hair or skincare product. Moreover, these oils can make your hair care products more effective in addition to imparting fragrance. They are packed with beneficial ingredients that can help address many hair issues, including dandruff.

Below is a helpful infographic that illustrates which essential oils can combat dandruff.

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Illustration: StyleCraze Design Team

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Frequently Asked Questions

How often should I do a hair mask?

Use a hair mask once or twice per week. However, it depends upon your hair and its condition. For example, if you have severe dandruff, you may use it more often.

How long should I leave the hair mask on?

It is best to leave your hair mask on for at least 20 to 30 minutes. If you leave the hair mask for too long, it may lead to too much protein absorption and hair breakage.

When to apply a hair mask?

A hair mask works best when it is applied to damp hair. Applying the hair mask after shampooing will help it get absorbed better.

Can yogurt cure dandruff?

Yes. According to a study conducted in 2017, using yogurt has helped manage the symptoms of moderate to severe dandruff (18). Therefore, using yogurt hair masks may help reduce dandruff issues.

Is a hair mask the same as a hair conditioner?

No, both have slightly different functions. While a hair conditioner conditions hair and makes it soft and manageable, a hair mask goes deeper and penetrates the hair shaft and hydrates it.

What does Cardi B use for her hair mask?

The DIY mask that Cardi B uses includes 2 avocados, shea moisture, argan oil, mayonnaise, castor oil, olive oil, two eggs, honey, and a banana. However, she limits the amount of honey and doesn’t skimp on mayo or oil to ensure the mask doesn’t make her hair too sticky.

Check out this amazing video on the 10 best 2-ingredient hair masks to help prevent hair fall and dandruff, and promote hair growth!

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Dr. Sameeksha ChandMBBS, MD DVL

   

Dr. Sameeksha Chand Malhotra is a board-certified dermatologist with 10 years of experience. She is well versed in general dermatology, procedural dermatology, and aesthetic dermatology and certified in permanent makeup and microblading. She has a special interest in diseases like acne, alopecia, psoriasis, vitiligo and eczema. She has worked at esteemed institutions like Army College of Medical Sciences (Delhi), Base...more

Anjali SayeeAssociate Editor

 

Anjali is an associate editor at StyleCraze. She specializes in hairstyles and hair and skin care and has written over 200 articles in these domains. She has 7 years of experience, and her philosophy about hair and skin care is simple: if you love and care for it, it will be healthy. She has taken it upon herself to show...more

Ramona SinhaEditor

Ramona is an editor at StyleCraze with 11 years of experience in writing and editing. She has authored over 200 articles on skin and hair care. She graduated from the University of Calcutta, West Bengal, and did her post-graduation from the University of Kalyani, West Bengal. She also did a certificate course in dermatology offered by the Novosibirsk State University...more

Monomita ChakrabortyBeauty & Lifestyle Writer

Monomita has a graduate degree in mass communication and video production from St. Anthony's College, Shillong, and a master’s degree in journalism and mass communication from the Royal Global University, Guwahati. She is also a certified skincare coach. Her passion for and understanding of all things related to skin, hair, and beauty propelled her to pursue a career in writing....more