Neem Oil For Dandruff: 8 Ways It Works

How Is Neem Oil Derived?

Neem oil is derived from the seeds and fruits of the neem tree (Azadirachtaindica) that is native to the Indian subcontinent. The oil has been used in traditional Indian medicine for treating many skin and hair ailments. Essential oils are often used in herbal treatments, and neem oil is one such oil that has been used for centuries in Ayurveda for skin health. It works as a natural cure for several conditions thanks to its antifungal, antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Neem oil can nourish your hair, help treat dandruff, itchiness, and scalp inflammation, which may improve hair health and promote healthy hair growth. We will understand this mechanism in the following section.

How Does Neem Oil Help Treat Dandruff?

Neem oil’s antifungal properties can help treat dandruff (1). It is effective against dandruff-causing fungi, including Candida and Malassezia. Its active constituent is nimbidin that has anti-inflammatory and antisepticⁱ  XAn antimicrobial substance that is applied on a wound or a cut to prevent any kind of infection or sepsis. properties. Nimbidin helps suppress scalp inflammation and treats psoriasisⁱ  XAn immune-mediated skin disease that causes rashes with scaly and itchy patches on the scalp, elbows, and knees. , dermatitisⁱ  XA general term used to indicate medical conditions involving skin irritation. Common symptoms include inflammation and itchiness. , eczema (2), and other forms of scalp irritation (2). Many anti-dandruff shampoos come with neem oil formulations.

Some anecdotal evidence suggests that regular use of neem oil can also help maintain the scalp pH levels. Also, when it comes to hair care, it is also an excellent choice for those with seborrheic dermatitis, as it can help reduce dandruff and soothe an itchy scalp. This, in turn, may boost scalp health and prevent dandruff.

We will now discuss how you can use neem oil for dandruff treatment.

How To Use Neem Oil For Dandruff Treatment

1. Neem Oil And Apple Cider Vinegar

The use of apple cider vinegar (ACV) in dandruff treatment warrants more research. But anecdotal evidence suggests that ACV may balance scalp pH and reduce dry scalp conditions. It has a pH of 4.5 to 5.5 (similar to that of the scalp). The vinegar is also believed to help fight bacterial infections that may otherwise lead to scalp issues.

 You Will Need

• 1 tablespoon of neem oil
• 2 tablespoons of ACV

Procedure

1. Mix 1 tablespoon of neem oil with 2 tablespoons of ACV.
2. Apply the mixture to your scalp and massage well.
3. Wrap a towel around your head or put on a shower cap.
4. Leave it on for about 20 minutes.
5. Wash with a mild shampoo.

Quick Tip

This treatment may cause your hair to become dry. So, use a conditioner to moisturize your strands after washing.

2. DIY Neem Oil Shampoo

A neem oil shampoo can offer a convenient way to treat dandruff. Preparing it is easy.

You Will Need

• ½ teaspoon of neem oil
• A regular shampoo

Procedure

1. Add the neem oil to your regular shampoo bottle.
2. Gently shake the bottle.
3. Use it as usual by massaging it into a lather.
4. Rinse with lukewarm water.
5. Apply Use this shampoo once weekly for best results.

Quick Tip

Using lemon peel topically may trigger an allergic reaction if you have a sensitive scalp. So, do a patch test before trying this natural remedy.

3. Neem Oil And Olive Oil

You can use olive oil to dilute the neem oil and make it suitable for those with a sensitive scalp. Olive oil works as a natural conditioner. It moisturizes dry scalp and may help with dandruff treatment (4). It is also said to possess antifungal properties that may help treat dry scalp and itchiness.

You Will Need

• 1 tablespoon of olive oil
• 1 tablespoon of neem oil

Procedure

1. Mix the olive and neem oils.
2. Apply the mixture to your scalp and massage for 10 minutes.
3. Wrap a towel around your head or put on a shower cap.
4. Leave it on your scalp for 20 minutes.
5. Wash your hair with a mild shampoo.

4. Mix Of Herbs With Neem Oil

Combine the neem oil with the goodness of bhringaraj, shikakai, and fenugreek powder. These ingredients possess anti-fungal and anti-bacterial properties and may help treat dandruff (5), (6), (7).

You Will Need

• A few drops of neem oil
• A few basil leaves
• 1 teaspoon of bhringraj powder
• 1 teaspoon of shikakai powder
• 1 teaspoon of fenugreek powder

Procedure

1. Mix all the ingredients in a clean bowl.
2. Apply the mixture to your scalp and hair.
3. Wrap a towel around your head or put on a shower cap.
4. Leave it on your scalp for 30 minutes.
5. Wash your hair with a mild shampoo.

5. Neem Oil With Lemon Peel

Lemon peel is known for its antifungal properties and helps prevent scalp infections (8). It may treat dandruff when used with neem oil.

You Will Need

• A few drops of neem oil
• 1 lemon peel

Procedure

1. Mix the neem oil and lemon peel in a clean bowl. You should get a non-sticky solution.
2. Apply this mixture to your hair and leave it on for 30 minutes.
3. Rinse with lukewarm water.

6. Neem Oil And Yogurt

Yogurt contains Lactobacillus paracasei, bacteria that can help treat dandruff (9). These bacteria help restore the scalp’s natural microbiomeⁱ  XA community of microorganisms living together in an environment, such as bacteria, fungi, and viruses. balance. Yogurt also cools an itchy scalp and nourishes your hair.

You Will Need

• Few drops of neem oil
• 1 cup of yogurt cup of curd

Procedure

1. Mix the neem oil and yogurt.
2. Apply the paste to your scalp and hair.
3. Wrap a towel around your head or put on a shower cap.
4. Leave it on the scalp for 30 minutes.
5. Wash with a mild shampoo.

7. Neem Oil With Carrier Oil

Concentrated neem oil can be tough on your scalp. Hence, always dilute it with a carrier oil like that of jojoba or coconut.

You Will Need

• A few drops of neem oil
• 2 tablespoons of a carrier oil

Procedure

1. Mix both the oils and apply the mixture to your scalp.
2. Massage thoroughly.
3. Wrap a towel around your head or put on a shower cap.
4. Leave it on for 30 minutes.
5. Rinse with a mild shampoo.

8. Neem Oil And Tea Tree Oil

Tea tree oil possesses antifungal properties that are effective against the dandruff-causing fungus Malassezia furfur (10). Its antiseptic, antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant attributes may also help maintain clean and healthy hair (11).

You Will Need

• 2 tablespoons of neem oil
• 5-7 drops of tea tree oil

Procedure

1. In a small bowl, mix the neem oil and tea tree oil.
2. Apply the mixture directly to your scalp, gently massaging it in.
3. Leave it on for at least 30 minutes to allow the oils to penetrate your scalp.
4. Shampoo your hair to wash out the oils thoroughly.
5. Repeat this treatment 2-3 times a week for noticeable results.

Note: Exercise caution with tea tree oil as it can cause skin sensitivity in some individuals.

Apart from these simple ways, you can take the following steps to prevent dandruff using neem oil.

Tips For Using Neem Oil

• Store neem oil in a cool, dry place and away from direct sunlight.
• Do not refrigerate neem oil.
• Do not place neem oil near boiling water.
• Some people are sensitive to neem oil. Hence, do a patch test before applying it to your scalp.

Infographic: 4 Ways To Use Neem Oil For Dandruff

Neem oil has been used in traditional medicine for centuries to treat various ailments. It has antifungal and anti-inflammatory properties that may help treat dandruff, scalp inflammation, and itchiness. Check out the infographic below to learn about the different ways to use neem oil to treat dandruff.

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Illustration: StyleCraze Design Team

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Frequently Asked Questions

How long does neem oil take to work?

Neem oil takes 1-2 weeks of regular use to show results.

How often can you apply neem oil?

Diluted neem oil can be applied once daily for 1-2 hours. However, it’s worth noting that leaving it on your hair overnight or applying it more frequently can cause irritation.

Can neem oil be used as a preventative measure to avoid future dandruff flare-ups?

Yes, neem oil has antifungal and antibacterial properties that help in keeping the scalp and hair healthy and preventing future dandruff flare-ups.

How long does it typically take to see results from using neem oil for dandruff?

It can take anywhere from a couple of days to a few weeks to see results from using neem oil for dandruff depending on your hair texture and scalp skin type.

Is neem oil safe to use in combination with other hair care products?

Yes, neem oil is safe to use in combination with other hair care products. However, do a patch test before combining the two products, especially if you have sensitive skin.

Can neem oil be used to treat dandruff in children or is it only recommended for adults?

In general, neem oil is safe to use. But it is best to check with a doctor before using it for children.

Are there any dietary changes that can complement the use of neem oil for dandruff treatment?

Eating a healthy diet may improve your hair and scalp condition and can complement the use of neem oil for dandruff treatment.

Is neem oil better than coconut oil?

Both neem and coconut oil are good for hair and scalp and have different benefits. Additionally, it depends on individual hair and scalp requirements.

Where should you not use neem oil?

Avoid using neem oil on sensitive skin areas, such as around the eyes or open wounds. It’s recommended to do a patch test before altering your hair or skincare routine.

How many times a week should I apply neem oil to my hair?

It’s recommended to apply neem oil once or twice a week. It is best to consult a doctor if you have any pre-existing skin or scalp-related issues.

Image: Stable Diffusion/StyleCraze Design Team

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Learn how to make your own neem oil for fast, long, and natural hair growth and the treatment of dandruff, eczema, itchy scalp, and lice. Get the best results with this easy DIY video tutorial!

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Dr. Shruti ChavanMBBS

Dr. Shruti Chavan is a consulting dermatologist at Dr.Sheth's Skin and Hair Clinic since 6 years. She is a co-committee member of CDSI (Cosmetic dermatologist Society of India). She is highly skilled in non-surgical facial skin rejuvenation and face lift by the use of injection treatments and lasers.   Dr. Chavan is well-versed with dermatological and aesthetic procedures. Her special...more

Arshiya SyedaSenior Editor

 

Arshiya Syeda is a senior editor at StyleCraze with 7 years of experience. Prior to that, she was a content writer and combined her writing and research skills to write over 200 high-performing articles on hairstyles, hair care, and skin care. She holds a bachelor's degree in literature and psychology from Osmania University, Hyderabad, and a post-graduate diploma in psychological...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

Swathi ESenior Beauty & Lifestyle Writer

Swathi has a postgraduate degree in English literature from The English And Foreign Languages University, Hyderabad, and over two years of experience in writing on health and lifestyle. She also has a diploma in English journalism from the Indian Institute of Mass Communication, Kottayam, and is a certified skincare coach. She writes on skin care and aims to present well-researched...more