If you find yourself constantly scratching your head or notice white flakes on your shoulders, chances are you have dandruff. It is a common skin condition that affects the scalp. It is not just itchy and frustrating, but can also be quite embarrassing and lower your confidence. While many medicated products can help treat dandruff, natural remedies are also quite effective and affordable. Here are five simple but proven natural remedies to eliminate dandruff.

1. Apple cider vinegar

Apple cider vinegar (ACV) is one of the best natural remedies for dandruff. Experts believe that ACV encourages the shedding of dead skin cells, balances the pH of the skin, and prevents the growth of certain types of fungus — all of which help treat dandruff. To treat dandruff at home, you can create a solution by adding half a cup of ACV to half a cup of water and massage your scalp with it. Let it sit for 10 to 15 minutes before rinsing your hair with cold water.

2. Coconut oil

Among many other health benefits, coconut oil can also be used to get rid of dandruff. It is known to have antifungal and anti-inflammatory properties that can reduce flakiness and inflammation on the scalp. Plus, it promotes scalp hydration and prevents dryness. You can massage your scalp with coconut oil before going to bed at night and rinse it off in the morning. You can also massage the oil into your scalp in the morning and let it sit for an hour before taking a shower.

3. Baking soda

When looking for natural dandruff remedies, your kitchen is the first place you should turn to. Baking soda, a prevalent leavening agent, acts as a gentle exfoliant that can help remove unwanted flakes from your scalp. Plus, it’s antifungal properties can help get rid of the source of these annoying flakes. Wet your hair and sprinkle a tablespoon of baking soda across your scalp, then massage it into your scalp. Leave it on for a couple of minutes, then wash it off with your regular shampoo.

4. Aloe vera

Did you know that many beauty and skincare products contain aloe vera? That’s because aloe vera gel has moisturizing properties, and it can help soothe various skin conditions. When applied to the scalp, aloe vera gel can prevent dryness and reduce itchiness. It also has some antibacterial and antifungal properties that can help reduce dandruff. All you need to do is directly apply aloe vera gel all over your scalp and rinse after 30 minutes. For best results, use pure aloe vera gel extracted from a fresh aloe plant.

5. Tea tree oil

Like coconut oil, tea tree oil is commonly used for treating various kinds of skin problems, including dandruff. Studies show that tea tree oil has powerful anti-microbial and anti-inflammatory properties, so it works by suppressing the growth of fungi and bacteria on your scalp. However, applying tea tree directly to your scalp can cause irritation. So, dilute it by adding a few drops of coconut or olive oil before massaging it into your scalp.