Remèdes naturels contre les pellicules

Dandruff—those persistent white flakes—might feel like an embarrassing nuisance, but it’s incredibly common. For many, it’s a recurring struggle: an itchy scalp, visible white or yellowish flakes on your hair or clothing, and a constant urge to scratch. If the same question—“how to get rid of dandruff”—echoes in your mind, you’re not alone.

While specialised dandruff treatments and medicated shampoos exist, natural solutions may help tackle the underlying factors. Scientific research published in recent years explores a range of remedies for dandruff that go beyond just cleansing, looking at factors such as scalp flora, skin barrier integrity, hydration, and even the delicate pH balance that supports scalp well-being (American Academy of Dermatology Association, AAD).

Are you searching for an effective remedy for dandruff, want to know how to permanently remove dandruff fungus, or simply wish to find out what is good for dandruff? Let’s break down the solutions, step by step.

Why does dandruff appear and how to remove it

Dandruff isn’t just about dryness. For many people, it’s driven by a blend of factors:

• Excess oil (seborrhoea) or grease production on the scalp
• A specific fungus (Malassezia)—naturally present in most adults—sometimes overgrows and causes irritation
• Imbalances in scalp flora
• Sensitivity to certain hair products or ingredients
• Cold, dry air or too-infrequent shampooing

Irritation and inflammation occur when skin cells renew too quickly, mixing with oil and sloughing off as clumps or flakes (Mayo Clinic).

Itching is famously annoying. Research suggests the skin’s natural pH and barrier may play a role—aggressive cleansers, or washing too rarely, can shift this delicate balance (Journal of Clinical and Investigative Dermatology).

What is good for dandruff? Usually, a multi-front approach that targets fungal overgrowth, soothes irritation, and helps restore the scalp’s normal flora and protective function.

What influences dandruff?

Several internal and external factors shape scalp health and influence how dandruff develops. Understanding these variables—from oil levels and microbial balance to your styling habits—makes it easier to choose the right remedy. Here’s a breakdown of what matters most for persistent flakes and scalp discomfort:

Factor	Can worsen dandruff	Can help reduce dandruff
Oily scalp	Yes	No
Overgrowth of fungus	Yes	No
Regular gentle cleansing	No	Yes
Harsh shampoos	Yes	No
Balanced nutrition	No	Yes
Use of plant extracts	No	Yes
Moisturising/hydration	No	Yes

Homemade remedies to remove dandruff

Ever wondered about homemade remedies to remove dandruff? If you don’t want to go straight for medicated shampoo or you’re looking for natural remedies for dandruff, several household ingredients have scientific support. Let’s focus on the safest, most evidence-backed options.

Apple cider vinegar for dandruff

Apple cider vinegar is famous in natural beauty circles. But is apple cider vinegar for dandruff actually effective?

How it might work: Vinegar’s acidity helps restore the scalp’s pH, which can inhibit excessive growth of Malassezia. Some studies show that acidifying rinses reduce itching and scale (Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology). Acetic acid’s mild antifungal effect can also disrupt the underlying yeast.

How to use: Mix 1 part apple cider vinegar with 2–3 parts water. After shampooing, pour the mixture onto your scalp, massage gently, and rinse after a few minutes.

Cautions: Vinegar can sting if there are open scratches, so avoid use on raw or irritated skin. Do not use undiluted vinegar.

Note: There’s no guarantee vinegar will work for every scalp, but some report significant itch relief and fewer flakes after regular treatments (Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology).

Tea tree oil

Tea tree oil—known scientifically as Melaleuca alternifolia oil—holds potent antifungal and anti-inflammatory properties. Research confirms that shampoos with 5% tea tree oil can reduce dandruff severity, scaling, and itching with few side effects (Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology).

How to use:

• Add 3-5 drops of 100% pure tea tree oil to your regular shampoo.
• Gently massage into your scalp and leave for a few minutes before rinsing.

Note: Tea tree oil is strong. If you’ve never used it, do a patch test first to avoid irritation.

Aloe vera and coconut oil

Aloe vera is not just a sunburn remedy. This succulent’s gel soothes irritation and calms inflamed, itchy scalps. A 2022 study found aloe-based creams reduced flaking, improved hydration, and restored scalp well-being (Dermatology Reports, MDPI).

Coconut oil acts differently—it penetrates the hair and skin to moisturise, but it also seems to reduce certain fungal populations, which means double benefits for dry, irritated, or flaky scalps.

How to use aloe and coconut oil:

• Apply fresh aloe vera gel (from the leaf or a reputable gel) onto the scalp and leave for 20–40 minutes before rinsing.
• For coconut oil, warm a spoonful, gently massage into the scalp, wait at least 30 minutes, then shampoo twice to remove residue.

Additional plant-based remedies

Beyond the popular choices, several lesser-known plant extracts show promise as remedies to eliminate dandruff.

Rosemary oil: This aromatic herb improves scalp circulation and possesses antimicrobial properties. Rosemary helps reduce irritation while stimulating hair follicles, making it a dual-purpose treatment for both hair health and dandruff control.

Fenugreek seeds: Rich in proteins and nicotinic acid, fenugreek has been used in traditional medicine for scalp disorders. Soak 2–3 tablespoons of fenugreek seeds overnight, grind into a paste, apply to your scalp, and rinse after 30–40 minutes. The paste provides nutrition and helps balance scalp conditions that favour flaking.

Neem: Revered in Ayurvedic traditions, neem leaves and oil exhibit strong antifungal and antibacterial effects. Recent research highlights neem’s ability to combat Malassezia growth while soothing inflamed skin (Journal of Ethnopharmacology). Boil fresh neem leaves, cool the water, and use as a final rinse after shampooing.

Basil: This culinary herb contains natural antifungal compounds and promotes scalp circulation. Crush fresh basil leaves with coconut oil to create a scalp mask that addresses both fungal overgrowth and dryness.

How to use natural remedies to remove dandruff at home

1. Choose your natural remedy: (Apple cider vinegar, tea tree oil, aloe vera, coconut oil).
2. Patch test: Apply a little of the diluted remedy to a small skin area. Wait 24 hours for any reaction.
3. Prepare the solution: Dilute oils or vinegar as instructed (never use pure essential oils or undiluted vinegar).
4. Apply: Massage into the scalp, focusing on trouble spots.
5. Wait: Leave on for 10–30 minutes as tolerated.
6. Cleanse: Rinse with lukewarm water and a mild, non-sulphate shampoo.
7. Repeat: Use 1–2 times a week for several weeks.

Understanding your scalp microbiome

Your scalp hosts a complex community of microorganisms—bacteria, fungi, and other microbes—that work together to maintain skin health. This ecosystem, called the scalp microbiome, plays a critical role in preventing dandruff.

Recent 2024 research demonstrates that healthy scalps show higher relative abundance of Cutibacterium acnes (a beneficial bacterium), while dandruff-affected scalps have elevated levels of Malassezia species and Staphylococcus bacteria (BioRxiv). This balance determines whether your scalp remains comfortable or develops flaking and itching.

How does this affect treatment? Understanding the microbiome explains why some natural remedies for dandruff work better than others. Coconut oil, for instance, doesn’t just moisturise—a 2021 longitudinal study found it actively modulates the scalp microbiome by increasing beneficial Malassezia globosa while reducing problematic Malassezia restricta (Nature Scientific Reports).

Postbiotics and fermented extracts: Emerging research in 2025 shows that fermented plant extracts—particularly from willow bark—can reinforce healthy scalp conditions by supporting beneficial bacteria. These postbiotics (metabolic byproducts of good bacteria) help maintain the microbial balance that prevents dysbiosis, the technical term for an unhealthy microbiome shift (PMC).

Your goal when choosing what to use for dandruff should include supporting this delicate ecosystem, not just eliminating all microbes.

How to permanently remove dandruff fungus

What about those persistent cases, where simple remedies don’t seem enough? How to permanently remove dandruff fungus is a frequent question for people whose symptoms keep coming back.

Malassezia—the main fungus connected to dandruff—thrives in oily conditions. While total elimination isn’t possible (our skin naturally hosts several kinds of fungi and bacteria), controlling its population is key (American Academy of Dermatology Association).

Natural antifungal ingredients:

• Tea tree oil: Uses above.
• Neem oil: Extracted from the neem plant, widely used in traditional medicine for its antifungal effect—though evidence is limited, some newer research highlights neem’s ability to fight fungal growth and soothe skin (Journal of Ethnopharmacology, Elsevier).
• Garlic extract: Studies show garlic compounds exhibit antifungal activities—though not all scalp types tolerate its strong scent or potency.
• Probiotic scalp tonics: These are emerging in recent research; they help restore the natural scalp microbiome, making it harder for harmful fungus to dominate (International Journal of Trichology), though such methods are still under exploration.

Do you really want to eliminate all scalp fungus?

No—total elimination would actually cause problems. Your goal is healthy balance. Excess use of harsh shampoos or overuse of antifungals can strip the scalp, leading to dryness, rebound irritation, or other issues.

The choice of shampoo also matters—look for gentle cleansing without heavy sulphates or alcohols. Your scalp’s pH, flora, and hydration are interconnected.

Comparison: Natural vs. Conventional Dandruff Remedies

Property	Natural Remedies	Medicated Shampoos
Key Ingredients	Plants, oils, extracts	Zinc pyrithione, ketoconazole
Risk of irritation	Low to moderate (patch test!)	Moderate to high
Fungus targeting	Moderate (varies by substance)	Strong
Cleansing	Gentle to mild	Mild to strong
Hydration	Usually moisturising	Variable
Cost	Low to moderate	Moderate to high
Environment	Biodegradable, plant-based	Synthetic
Suitability for sensitive skin	Good (case by case)	Mixed

Nutrition and supplements for scalp health

How to fight dandruff extends beyond topical treatments—internal nutrition significantly impacts your scalp’s condition and resistance to flaking.

Omega-3 fatty acids

These essential fats reduce inflammation throughout your body, including your scalp. Omega-3s help regulate oil production and support the skin’s protective barrier, reducing dryness and flaking (Healthline). Found in fatty fish (salmon, mackerel), walnuts, flaxseeds, and chia seeds, omega-3s should be a regular part of your diet if you’re dealing with persistent dandruff.

Studies suggest that people with adequate omega-3 intake experience less severe scalp conditions. If dietary sources are insufficient, consider high-quality fish oil supplements after consulting with a healthcare professional.

Zinc

This mineral is essential for cell growth, immune function, and regulating sebum (oil) production. Zinc deficiency has been linked to increased dandruff severity and slower healing of scalp irritation. Zinc-rich foods include oysters, beef, pumpkin seeds, and lentils.

Your scalp uses zinc to maintain its protective barrier and control the inflammatory response that leads to flaking. Some evidence suggests zinc supplementation can reduce dandruff symptoms, though food sources are always preferable.

B vitamins

B-complex vitamins—particularly biotin (B7), niacin (B3), and pyridoxine (B6)—support skin health and cellular metabolism. Research on the scalp microbiome shows that biotin metabolism pathways are enriched in healthy scalps compared to dandruff-affected ones.

Antioxidants from colourful vegetables and fruits also protect scalp tissue from oxidative stress. Include leafy greens, berries, and vitamin C-rich foods to support overall scalp well-being.

Probiotics

Emerging evidence suggests that oral probiotics may influence skin and scalp health by modulating the body’s inflammatory response and supporting healthy microbial communities. While research specifically on dandruff remains limited, the gut-skin axis concept suggests that internal microbial balance affects external skin conditions.

Fermented foods—yoghurt, kefir, sauerkraut, kimchi—provide beneficial bacteria that may indirectly support your scalp’s microbiome health.

How to fight and prevent dandruff

How to fight dandruff isn’t just about treatment—it’s equally about prevention and lifestyle tweaks.

• Regular scalp cleansing: Use mild shampoos 2–3 times weekly. If your scalp is oily, you may need to wash more frequently.
• Balanced nutrition: Deficiencies in zinc, certain B vitamins, and essential fatty acids are linked to scalp flaking. Improve your diet with nuts, seeds, leafy vegetables, and healthy oils (Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Harvard Health).
• Stress management: Chronic stress may worsen flaking and itching. Simple relaxation techniques—yoga, walking, even deep breathing—can help restore scalp well-being.
• Gentle styling: Avoid harsh hair products, minimise heat styling, and don’t scratch your scalp; broken skin increases risk of inflammation and infection.
• Hydration: Drink enough fluids and, if necessary, use sprinkle-on scalp mists or lightweight plant-based oils to keep your skin barrier healthy.

Wondering how to choose what to use for dandruff in your own case? Consider scalp type (oily or dry), frequency of flaking, any allergies, and your willingness to adopt routine care.

How to prevent dandruff—simple home routine:

1. Wash scalp and hair with a gentle, non-sulphate shampoo 2–3 times per week.
2. Once weekly, apply a natural remedy (tea tree oil, aloe vera, or diluted vinegar).
3. Eat balanced, emphasising zinc, B vitamins, and antioxidants from plants.
4. Hydrate, both internally (water!) and by avoiding stripping shampoos.
5. Minimise styling products; allow scalp’s flora to remain in balance.
6. Don’t scratch—use cool compresses if it itches.

If your scalp remains irritated, develops redness or swelling, or over-the-counter and natural remedies offer no relief after several weeks—consult a dermatologist for a tailored treatment plan (Cleveland Clinic).

FAQ:

Why does dandruff appear and how to remove it?
Dandruff often results from overgrowth of natural scalp fungus, excess oil, or sensitivities in the skin barrier. Gently cleansing, keeping scalp pH balanced, and supporting healthy flora can help reduce flaking.

Can natural remedies permanently eliminate dandruff fungus?
Natural antifungals like tea tree oil and improved nutrition help control fungus, but the complete elimination isn’t possible or necessary—balance is the main target for lasting relief.

What is the most effective remedy for dandruff?
Effectiveness varies by person: many respond well to regular use of diluted apple cider vinegar, coconut oil, or tea tree oil—combined with gentle cleansing and nutritional support.

How to get rid of dandruff for good?
There’s no magic bullet. Consistency in scalp care, hydration, and targeted natural solutions can bring long-term results for most people.

How This Article Was Researched

This resource was developed by Suplint’s research team using data from peer-reviewed studies and established health organisations. Each recommendation in this guide stems from recent medical research on scalp and hair health, ensuring that the advice provided is science-based, practical, and current. Only authoritative sources published between 2020 and 2025 were referenced to support this article’s content. For personalised guidance, always reach out to a qualified healthcare professional before making decisions related to your health, dietary changes, or supplement use.

References

1. Mayo Clinic: https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/dandruff/symptoms-causes/syc-20353850
2. American Academy of Dermatology Association: https://www.aad.org/public/diseases/hair-scalp-care/dandruff-seborrheic-dermatitis
3. Journal of Clinical and Investigative Dermatology: https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S2667299521000267
4. Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology: https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/abs/10.1111/jocd.14630
5. Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology: https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0190962224001538
6. Dermatology Reports (MDPI): https://www.mdpi.com/2036-7449/14/3/86
7. Journal of Ethnopharmacology (Elsevier): https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0378874121007856
8. BioRxiv: https://www.biorxiv.org/content/10.1101/2024.05.02.592279v1.full-text
9. Nature Scientific Reports: https://www.nature.com/articles/s41598-021-86454-1
10. PubMed Central: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC11930920/
11. Harvard Health Publishing: https://www.health.harvard.edu/newsletter\_article/eat-your-way-to-healthy-skin
12. Healthline: https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/ways-to-treat-dandruff