We can all agree on one thing- dandruff is frustrating to no end, whether it is wet or dry. So we all search the internet for natural remedies to deal with this unwanted yet unavoidable situation. But what if those remedies don’t work? There is a reason why those remedies might not work because the remedies for wet dandruff are different from dry dandruff. So if you want to know how to treat wet dandruff, it is essential to know its root cause.

If you are still confused, go through this article to know the difference between wet and dry dandruff and tackle wet dandruff naturally. Read on!

What Is Wet Dandruff

Our scalp contains sebaceous glands whose primary function is the production of natural oil sebum. This sebum prevents your scalp and hair from getting dehydrated by keeping them moisturized, thereby reducing frizz and signs of aging.

But when the sebum glands work in overdrive, that results in sebum buildup, making the scalp sticky. The sticky scalp results in dandruff by attracting and clinging onto dirt and dead skin cells.

Since sebum forms a sticky layer on your scalp, the resulting dandruff is often called oily or wet dandruff.

Causes And Reasons:

  • One of the prominent reasons for the formation of wet dandruff is excess sebum on the scalp, and poor scalp habits lead to this condition.
  • The trademark feature of Seborrheic dermatitis is wet dandruff which causes red skin and scaly patches in your body’s oily areas.
  • Wet dandruff caused by Seborrheic dermatitis can be caused by stress, cold or dry weather, hormonal changes, an overabundance of Malassezia yeast.
  • Although seborrheic dermatitis is one of the conditions that come with wet dandruff, you might also see wet dandruff in an infection. Or skin disorders like Psoriasis.
  • Sometimes wet dandruff can occur without any underlying health condition.
  • Atopic dermatitis(a type of eczema) and Tinea capitis(ringworm) are other skin conditions resulting in wet dandruff.

Difference Between Wet And Dry Dandruff:

But what is the difference between dry and wet dandruff?

Dry Dandruff:

  • The small, white flakes that fall of your scalp pretty easily with the slightest movement are typically Dry dandruff.
  • Dry dandruff tends to disappear during the summer months and typically doesn’t cause redness or irritation.

Wet Dandruff:

  • wet dandruff usually clings onto your hair shafts by clumping together that have an appearance of large, yellow, and sticky dandruff flakes.
  • Since the wet dandruff clumps together, it doesn’t fall off easily, and after scratching, the scalp feels wet.
  • Wet dandruff causes severe inflammation and itching on the scalp and is more of a long-lasting condition.

How To Get Rid Of Wet Dandruff:

Since wet dandruff causes extreme itching and is a long-lasting condition, it is necessary to tackle it using some home remedies that target the issue. Here are s few things you can incorporate into your hair care routine.

1. Fenugreek Seeds:

The antibacterial and antifungal properties of Fenugreek seeds work well as a wet dandruff treatment by fighting off the infections that aggravate this condition significantly (1).

Ingredients:

  • Two tbsp of fenugreek seeds.
  • Water.

Preparation:

  • Presoak the fenugreek seeds overnight.
  • The following day, grind the fenugreek seeds into a smooth paste.

Application:

  • Gently apply the paste to your scalp evenly.
  • Let it remain there for about 30 minutes.
  • Use a mild shampoo to wash it off.
  • Use this remedy twice a week for effective results.

2. Aloe Vera Gel:

Aloe vera is another wet dandruff home remedy that soothes itchiness and reduces inflammation by containing glycoproteins (2). It also contains oxidase and catalase, cleansing enzymes, along with vitamins B, C, and E that cleanse and nourish your scalp.

Using Aloe vera for hair can reduce the oil buildup, fatty deposits, and dead skin cells that result in wet dandruff.

Ingredients:

  • Three to four tbsp of Aloe vera gel.
  • Hot water.
  • Towel.

Application:

  • Gently apply the aloe vera gel to your scalp evenly.
  • Use hot water to soak the towel.
  • Make sure to remove the excess water by wringing it.
  • Wrap the damp, hot towel around your head.
  • Let it remain for about 30 minutes.
  • Use a mild shampoo to wash your hair.
  • Use this remedy three times a week.

3. Amla And Lemon Juice:

You can get rid of wet dandruff with a combination of amla and lemon juice. It helps remove the oil accumulated on the scalp, eliminating wet dandruff. Additionally, lemon juice helps eliminate wet dandruff-causing fungus because of the citric acid content that acts as an antimicrobial agent (3).

Ingredients:

  • Two tbsp of amla juice.
  • Two tbsp of lemon juice.
  • A cotton ball.

Preparation:

  • Take a bowl and combine both juices.

Application:

  • Apply the mixture to your scalp evenly with the help of a cotton ball.
  • Let it remain on your scalp for about 30 minutes.
  • Use a mild shampoo to wash your hair.
  • Use this remedy twice a week for good results.

4. Apple Cider Vinegar:

Apple Cider Vinegar is an ingredient that helps remove wet dandruff (4). In addition, Apple Cider Vinegar helps alter the PH of your scalp because of its acidic nature, making it difficult for the growth of dandruff-causing fungus.

Ingredients:

  • ½ cup of ACV.

Application:

  • Gently massage after pouring the Apple Cider Vinegar all over your scalp.
  • Let it remain on your scalp for about ten minutes.
  • Use a mild shampoo to wash your hair and use a conditioner.
  • Use this remedy at least once a week for good results.

5. Baking Soda:

Baking soda is another ingredient that is readily available and has many benefits. Though it might sound like an odd choice, Baking soda helps eliminate dandruff-causing fungus from the scalp (5).

Ingredients:

  • Water.
  • Three tbsp of baking soda.

Preparation:

  • Take a bowl and combine baking soda and water, forming a smooth paste. Add water as per the need.

Application:

  • Gently apply the paste to your scalp evenly.
  • Let it remain on the scalp for about ten minutes.
  • Use mild shampoo to wash your hair.
  • Use this remedy once a week for good results.

Read More: Baking Soda for Dandruff

Tips To Avoid Wet Dandruff:

If you are still wondering how to cure or prevent getting wet dandruff, here are some tips you need to follow:

  • Using the wrong type of shampoo for your scalp can also be one of the causes that can exacerbate your wet dandruff. So, it is necessary to choose the right kind of shampoo that helps you manage those symptoms.
  • We all spend so much time styling our hair, but it is essential to take a break from styling as these products can be harsh on your scalp when you have wet dandruff.
  • Ensure you are not using styling products too frequently, especially if you have skin conditions like irritation and contact dermatitis.
  • Most of all, diet plays an essential role in tackling skin diseases internally. For example, consuming a healthy diet might help clear up wet dandruff, primarily caused by seborrheic dermatitis or Psoriasis.
  • Try to consume lean proteins, vegetables, fruits, and whole grains instead of heavily processed foods.

When dealing with wet dandruff, it is essential to know the root cause, which will help you determine the course of treatment. The home remedies mentioned in this article will certainly help you treat wet dandruff. If the problem persists, make sure to consult a doctor to rule out any medical issues. Don’t forget to let us know if you found this article helpful!

FAQ:

1. Is Wet Dandruff A Sign Of Psoriasis?

Though Psoriasis is one of the causes of wet dandruff, there could be many other health conditions that result in wet dandruff. Typically, dandruff caused by Psoriasis is more scaly than flaky. It spreads to other parts of the body, like the neck.

2. What Is The Reason For The Scabs On My Head?

Excessive itching and scratching that accompany wet dandruff can result in scabs on your head.

3. Is It Okay To Wash Your Hair Every Day With Wet Dandruff?

Hairwashing daily can cause dandruff in general, especially if your scalp is too dry. The key is to do shampooing in moderation once in two or three days.

Suvarna

About Suvarna

Suvarna is a freelance content writer with over 8 years of professional writing experience. She specialized in developing research-based content on Beauty, Skin, and Hair Care. Suvarna believes that beauty is one of the key factors for every personality. She always strives to bring more authenticity and credibility to her articles.
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