Dandruff is actually seborrheic dermatitis of the scalp, somewhat similar to cradle cap in an infant. It is caused by an inflammation of the upper layers of the skin, including overactive sebaceous (oil) glands, resulting in a buildup of oily skin scales that, as they are shed from the scalp, appear as telltale white flakes in the hair and on the shoulders, and occasionally the eyebrows. Mild itching often occurs as well.
The tendency to develop dandruff often runs in families, and cold weather can make the symptoms worse. Dandruff can be triggered by hormonal disturbances, faulty diet, emotional stress, a change in climate, or a fungal infection.
If you begin to see those pesky white flakes and are not sure why, start by evaluating your hair-care regimen. The overuse of styling products, heated devices (blow dryers, curling irons, and the like), and chemical procedures can cause a flaky, dry, irritated scalp that imitates dandruff conditions. If you really do have dandruff, then try this gentle remedy to help improve the situation.
FRESH AND CLEAN ANTIDANDRUFF SCALP TREATMENT
With any skin disease involving the sebaceous (oil) glands, especially on the scalp, I prefer to use jojoba base oil because of its chemical similarity to human sebum and the fact that it oxygenates the follicles. It has antiinflammatory properties and penetrates extremely well. This formula helps stimulate circulation and cell renewal, cleanses the follicles, encourages hair growth, aids in balancing sebum production (so don’t be afraid to use it on an oily scalp), and fights inflammation, infection, and possible odor. Plus, it conditions dry strands beautifully!
20 drops rosemary (chemotype verbenon) essential oil
15 drops geranium essential oil
10 drops Atlas cedar essential oil
5 drops lemon essential oil
5 drops tea tree essential oil
5 drops thyme (chemotype linalool) essential oil
½ cup jojoba base oil
EQUIPMENT: Dropper, dark glass bottle with dropper top or screw cap
PREP TIME: 15 minutes, plus 24 hours to synergize
YIELD: Approximately ½ cup
STORAGE: Store at room temperature, away from heat and light; use within 2 years
APPLICATION: 3 times per week Add the rosemary, geranium, Atlas cedar, lemon, tea tree, and thyme essential oils drop by drop directly into a storage bottle. Add the jojoba base oil. Screw the top on the bottle and shake vigorously for 2 minutes to blend. Label the bottle and place in a dark location that’s between 60° and 80°F for 24 hours so that the oils can synergize.
APPLICATION INSTRUCTIONS:
Shake well before using. Place 1 to 2 teaspoons of the oil blend in a small bowl. Using your fingertips, gradually massage the entire amount into your dry scalp for several minutes, making sure to rub a little down the length of your hair and onto the ends. Wrap your hair completely with plastic wrap or a plastic shower cap, then cover it with a very warm, damp towel. Replace with another warm towel once the first has cooled. Leave on for at least 1 hour, or overnight (preferably). If you leave it on overnight, remove the plastic and sleep with a dry towel on your pillow to absorb the oil. When you’re ready to shampoo, apply a gentle, chemical-free, low-sudsing shampoo directly to your hair and scalp, without wetting them first. Massage it in well, then add water, work up a lather, and rinse as usual. Follow with a conditioner, if desired. Repeat up to three times per week, if necessary, until the condition of your scalp improves.
Thursday, 24 April 2014
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