Neem and Lemon for Dandruff: Benefits and Uses

Women with dry skin often have to deal with dandruff, which can leave a person’s scalp dry and itchy. I have dry skin and hair and I often face dandruff problem, especially in winter. I am used to washing my hair with anti-dandruff shampoo and I have no complaints. But after I took a break, the dandruff came back. My mother told me to mix neem (Azadirachta indica) with lemon to get rid of dandruff naturally. According to her, this is the best home remedy for dandruff removal. I have tried neem and lemon for dandruff removal and am happy with the results.

What is dandruff?

Dandruff is a common scalp condition that manifests itself in the form of visible shedding of dead skin cells from the scalp. Occasionally they are usually harmless, but can itch and irritate, says dermatologist Dr Neha Khurana.

What are the causes of dandruff?

Some of the common reasons are:

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

Are neem and lemon good for dandruff?

Both neem and lemon are powerful ingredients that help in removing dandruff, says an expert. Here’s how the two natural ingredients work on your hair –

1. Neem

The antimicrobial and antifungal properties of neem fight against dandruff-causing bacteria. According to a 2010 study published in the e-International Scientific Research Journal, neem leaf extracts can inhibit the growth of the fungus Pterosporum ovale, the main cause of dandruff. Its anti-inflammatory properties also soothe scalp irritation. Neem has astringent properties that help control oil production on the scalp, says an expert.

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2. Lemon

The exfoliating properties of lemon loosen and remove dead skin cells. It has astringent properties that help control oiliness. Dr. Khurana says that the antibacterial properties of lemon help to keep the scalp clean.

How to use neem and lemon to remove dandruff?

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

1. Make neem paste

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

2. Neem oil and lemon

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

You can use coconut oil with neem and lemon as it moisturizes the scalp and hair and prevents excessive dryness, says the expert.
Aloe vera is another ingredient that soothes and hydrates the scalp.
Tea tree oil can also help, as it has antibacterial and antifungal properties that can fight dandruff.

Use neem and lemon home remedy for dandruff removal once or twice a week. Keep in mind that its overuse can cause irritation or dryness on the scalp, so it’s important to monitor how your scalp reacts to it, says the expert.

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

Although it is generally safe, you should 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.

Be careful when you try a new ingredient, especially those used in home remedies, and remember to use it in moderation.