5 Hair Oils That Could Be Making Your Dandruff Worse: What To Use Instead

Hair Oils That Worsen Dandruff:  Oiling has long been a part of traditional hair care in India and across the globe. However, not all problems have the same solution. So, when you start finding flakes on your shoulders, hair oiling might be the best solution. Contrary to popular assumption, dandruff is not simply caused by a dry scalp.

Why Do Some Hair Oils Trigger Dandruff And Scalp Issues?

Dandruff is usually associated with Malassezia, a type of yeast which normally occurs on the scalp. Malassezia feeds on oils from the scalp, so putting too much oil may contribute to a greasy scalp, which makes it more itchy and irritated. So, when you already have an oily scalp, applying thick and more than enough oil will just make matters worse because it traps dead skin and sweat.

5 Hair Oils That Worsen Dandruff And What To Use Instead

The solution to moisturise your hair with thick oils might worsen your hair health. They add to the oil buildup on your scalp, and that is how oiling may exacerbate the problem. Therefore, let’s take a look at 5 oils to avoid and better alternatives for a healthier scalp.

1. Coconut Oil

Coconut oil is an effective moisturizer and a great remedy for dry hair but the excessive application of the oil on the person battling dandruff can cause more flakes to appear on their scalp. The oil captures the dead skin, perspiration and dirt and diminishes the amount of air which gets to the scalp.

2. Olive Oil:

Olive oil has a thick and rich texture; while it manages perfectly with the dry ends of hair, the oil isn’t the best option for oily or itching scalp. Since it can leave a greasy buildup, it can stimulate the growth of Malassezia and cause increased itchiness on the scalp, unless carefully washed out.

3. Castor Oil:

Castor oil is a thick and viscous oil is often presented to be suitable for hair growth but can easily build up on the scalp, blocking hair follicles, and gluing dandruff flakes together. This can also lead to irritation and issues with cleansing the scalp properly.

4. Mustard Oil:

Mustard oil heats up and contains several chemicals that cause sensitivity to the inflamed scalp. For this reason, if you have redness, itching, or dandruff already, mustard oil application may worsen the inflammation that already exists and make you feel worse, especially when applied often.

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5. Scented Or Herbal Hair Oils:

Many herbal oils available are made with synthetic fragrances, essential oils, and different plant oils. Even though these substances seem natural, they can be a threat to allergy-prone people or individuals suffering from sensitive scalp issues. They can face more redness, itching, and flaking, and may confuse it with the worsening of their dandruff.

According to Dr Mehak Gupta, Assistant Professor, Department of Dermatology, NIIMS Medical College and Hospital, Greater Noida,”While consumers may be inclined to use heavy oil treatments, they should first examine the reasons for their dandruff problem. Those suffering from dandruff must take an anti-dandruff shampoo containing ingredients such as ketoconazole, zinc pyrithione, selenium sulfide, or piroctone olamine.”

What Ingredients Should You Avoid In Hair Oils For A Dandruff-Prone Scalp?

Dandruff is one of the most prevalent problems to have on the scalp, but many individuals unintentionally intensify their problem by slathering their heads with oil expecting to moisturize the scalp. Even though oiling may help dry hair, it might not be the best option for a scalp prone to dandruff. Most causes of dandruff can be attributed to an overgrowth of a naturally occurring yeast; Malassezia.

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This yeast thrives in oil. By applying certain oils to the scalp, the environment becomes conducive for those yeasts to proliferate hence worsening the flaking of the scalp.

How To Apply Hair Oil Without Increasing Dandruff?

According to Dr Mehak Gupta, “If there are issues with dry dandruff and the scalp requires hydration, it is advisable to apply light oils only to the length of hair and not the scalp and not for long hours. It is better to keep the scalp clean and to avoid unnecessary use of gels, lotions and applying the oils repeatedly. It is better to see a doctor in case of ongoing itching, an irritated scalp, or hair loss after four weeks.”