How To Use Olive Oil To Treat Dandruff

Olive oil is considered the greatest natural remedy for maintaining hair health. This oil is nutritious and filled with antioxidantsⁱ  They are the molecules that help fight free radicals in the body formed during the oxidation process and thus prevent cell damage. , plus it can work wonders as hair oil. But, can you use olive oil to treat dandruff? Olive oil can certainly help with dandruff, but that is not the only advantage of applying it to your hair. This excellent ingredient may be used to treat various hair issues, and you will see a difference as soon as you apply it. Continue reading to understand the ways olive oil can help with dandruff and how to incorporate it into your hair care regimen.

Is Olive Oil Effective Against Dandruff?

Yes! Olive oil is one of the best ingredients you could use to treat dandruff. The oil is effective and efficient to the point where you start noticing the improvement from the first use. Following, I’ve put together the benefits of olive oil for hair.

1. Fights Dandruff

Olive oil is one of the best natural conditioners that you can find for your hair (1). Unlike regular store-bought conditioners, which only clog and irritate your scalp, olive oil will help moisturize a dry scalp and will soothe flaking.

2. Unclogs Follicles

Olive oil has antioxidant and antibacterial properties, which make it a good hair cleanser (2), (3). Cleansers are used to remove the build-up that is clogging the hair follicles. Another study showed that olive oil penetrates through hair fibers and protects the hair from within (4). Clogged follicles (from the dirt and grime) can lead to scalp irritation and dandruff (5). Olive oil is light and helps dissolve all the dirt, excess oils, and grime that are present on your scalp. This helps unclog the follicles as well as nourish them so that hair can grow without a hitch, minimizing scalp irritation.

3. Prevents Damage

Olive oil helps reduce hair damage and trichoptilosis, or split ends (1). Regular use of olive oil can help boost scalp and hair health by preventing damage. This is owed to olive oil’s rich antioxidant properties that help minimize oxidative damage (2).

4. Conditions Hair

Olive oil can also be used as a hair conditioner as it penetrates the hair fiber  (1), (2). The oil contains mono-unsaturated fatsⁱ  These are the healthy fats that help lower cholesterol levels in the body. They are found in nuts, avocados, and vegetable oils. that nourish your hair (6). Thus, it may leave your hair feeling silky, soft, and frizz-free.

Now that you know how beneficial olive oil is for your hair, check out how you can use it to treat dandruff.

How To Use Olive Oil For Dandruff Treatment

Olive oil can provide much-needed hydration to your scalp, thereby combating dryness and reducing dandruff. Here is how to get rid of dandruff using olive oil in a few different ways.

1. Olive Oil And Egg White Hair Mask For Dandruff

Egg whites contain enzymesⁱ  Proteins in the body that help increase metabolism by accelerating chemical reactions. It helps digestion, breathing, and healing. that kill bacteria and prevent infection (7). This helps keep your scalp healthy while warding off dandruff. Eggs also help nourish your hair with their high protein content (8).

You Will Need

• 1 egg white
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Shower cap

Prep Time

5 minutes

Processing Time

20 minutes

Process

• In a bowl, beat the white of one egg with two tablespoons of olive oil. Ensure that the egg is cold to contain the smell.
• Apply this mixture onto your scalp and then work it down to the tips of your hair.
• Once your scalp and hair are covered in the mixture, cover your hair with a shower cap to avoid a mess.
• Wait for about 20 minutes.
• After 20 minutes have passed, wash your hair with cool water and a mild sulfate-free shampoo. Avoid using warm or hot water as it might ‘cook’ the egg.
• Finish with conditioner. Ensure that you apply the conditioner from the mid-lengths of your hair without touching your scalp.

How Often?

1-2 times a week.

Quick Tip

You can also add 1 teaspoon of baking soda in the mixture for its oil-absorbing properties.

2. Olive Oil And Almond Oil For Dandruff

Almond oil has anti-inflammatory properties (9). Therefore, it may help soothe scalp irritation, combat dandruff and calm skin inflammation. In combination with olive oil, it also helps soften the flakes and dissolve excess sebum and dirt, thus unclogging your hair follicles.

You Will Need

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 tablespoon almond oil

Prep Time

2 minutes

Processing Time

45 minutes – Overnight

Process

• In a bowl, mix the almond and olive oils until you get a smooth mixture.
• Start massaging this mixture into your scalp and then work it down to the tips of your hair.
• Once your scalp and hair are covered, massage your scalp for about 10-15 minutes.
• Leave the oil on for an additional 30 minutes. Optionally, you can leave it overnight.
• Wash your hair with a mild sulfate-free shampoo.
• Finish with a conditioner. Ensure that you apply the conditioner from the mid-lengths of your hair without touching your scalp.

How Often?

2-3 times a week.

3. Olive Oil And Lemon For Dandruff

Lemon juice is rich in citric acid, vitamin C, and antioxidants (10). Anecdotal evidence suggests that it may help fight dandruff and boost scalp health. The acidic nature of lemon juice can also help balance your scalp’s pH and leave your scalp feeling fresh and free of build-up.

Be sure to properly rinse the lemon juice from your scalp. Failure to do so can lead to permanent hair loss.

Caution: Do not sit under the sun after applying this hair mask because lemon juice can bleach your hair when exposed to sunlight.

You Will Need

• 1 teaspoon lemon juice
• 2 tablespoons olive oil

Prep Time

2 minutes

Processing Time

1 hour

Process

• In a bowl, combine the olive oil and lemon juice.
• Massage this mixture into your scalp and then work it down to the tips of your hair.
• Once your hair and scalp are both covered, continue massaging for about 10-15 minutes.
• Leave the lemon-oil mixture on for an additional 30-45 minutes.
• Wash your hair with a mild sulfate-free shampoo.
• Finish with conditioner. Ensure that you apply the conditioner from the mid-lengths of your hair without touching your scalp.

How Often?

2-3 times a week.

Mary, a DIY blogger, tried olive oil, honey, and lemon juice to treat her dandruff and found great results. She kept it on her hair for 30 minutes after massaging the scalp with the remedy. She said, “Seriously, this has got to be the BEST my hair has felt without ANY product, or added shine via hair salon (i).”

4. Olive Oil And Tea Tree Oil For Dandruff

Tea tree oil has antifungal and antibacterial properties (11), (12). It has also been found to be effective in the treatment of dandruff and the scalp irritation and greasiness associated with it (11).

You Will Need

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 10 drops of tea tree oil

Prep Time

2 minutes

Processing Time

45 minutes

Process

• In a bowl, add 10 drops of tea tree oil to 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Mix well.
• Start massaging this mixture into your scalp and then work it down to the tips of your hair.
• Once your scalp and hair are covered, massage your scalp for about 10-15 minutes.
• Leave the oil on for an additional 30 minutes. Optionally, you can leave it in overnight.
• Wash your hair with a mild sulfate-free shampoo.
• Finish with a conditioner. Ensure that you apply the conditioner from the mid-lengths of your hair without touching your scalp.

How Often?

2-3 times a week.

Trivia

When applying tea tree oil to your scalp, take care not to get it in your eyes as it can irritate them and cause redness.

5. Olive Oil And White Vinegar For Dandruff

White vinegar contains acetic acid that helps fight off fungal infections (13). Therefore, it may help fight off the dandruff-causing fungus Malassezia and relieve itching.

You Will Need

• 1 teaspoon olive oil
• 2 teaspoon white vinegar
• 1 tablespoon water

Prep Time

2 minutes

Processing Time

10 minutes

Process

• In a bowl, mix all the ingredients until they are well-combined.
• Start applying the mixture onto your scalp in sections.
• Once your scalp is completely covered in the mixture, massage for about 5 minutes.
• Leave the mixture on for an additional 5 minutes.
• Wash your hair with a mild sulfate-free shampoo.
• Finish with conditioner. Ensure that you apply the conditioner from the mid-lengths of your hair without touching your scalp.

How Often?

1-2 times a week until the problem subsides.

6. Olive Oil And Turmeric For Dandruff

Turmeric is a powerhouse of antioxidants (14). Hence, it may help fight and prevent scalp and hair damage. It also has strong antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties that can help soothe your scalp and fight infection (14).

You Will Need

• 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
• 2 tablespoon olive oil
• Shower cap

Prep Time

2 minutes

Processing Time

45 minutes

Process

• In a bowl, mix the turmeric and olive oil until they are well combined.
• Start applying this mixture onto your scalp and then work it down to the tips of your hair.
• After your hair and scalp are covered in the oil-turmeric mixture, massage your scalp for about 10-15 minutes.
• Leave the mixture on for an additional 30 minutes.
• Wash your hair with a mild sulfate-free shampoo.
• Finish with conditioner. Ensure that you apply the conditioner from the mid-lengths of your hair without touching your scalp.

How Often?

2-3 times a week.

7. Olive Oil And Baking Soda For Dandruff

Baking soda may help exfoliate the scalp and remove the dandruff flakes. Baking soda also has antifungal properties that fight against a variety of yeasts (15). Thus, it may be effective in treating the fungal infection on your scalp that is causing dandruff .

You Will Need

• 1 tablespoon baking soda
• 1-2 tablespoons olive oil

Prep Time

2 minutes

Processing Time

10 minutes

Process

1. In a bowl, mix the baking soda and olive oil to make a paste.
2. Divide your hair into sections and apply the mixture evenly to your scalp.
3. Gently massage your scalp for about 5 minutes to distribute the mixture.
4. Leave it on for an additional 5 minutes to let it work its magic.
5. Rinse your hair thoroughly with a mild shampoo.

How Often?

Once or twice a week until the dandruff is gone.

These olive oil recipes are sure to help you combat dandruff, continue reading to check out some additional tips as well that will allow you to get the most out of these DIY concoctions!

Additional Tips For Effective Use

Here are some tips on how to effectively use olive oil for reducing dandruff!

• If you are using olive oil as the sole remedy then warm it slightly before applying for better scalp absorption.
• Massage the oil gently into the scalp to boost circulation.
• Ensure to leave olive oil on for a minimum of 30 minutes for maximum hydration.
• Use 1-2 times weekly to maintain dandruff-free, nourished hair.
• Rinse thoroughly to avoid excess oil buildup on the scalp.

Infographic: 5 Ways To Use Olive Oil To Tackle Dandruff

Dandruff is one of the most common hair issues that the majority of the population experiences. While it doesn’t carry any harmful effects, it sure has its drawbacks, from causing an embarrassment to ruining your favorite black top with white flakes. But worry not – as we have your back. We have listed in the following infographic 5 easy home remedies to tackle dandruff. Take a look.

Illustration: StyleCraze Design Team

Frequently Asked Questions

Is it safe to use olive oil daily for dandruff treatment?

While olive oil can moisturize the scalp, daily application may lead to buildup. It is thus recommended to only apply olive oil once or twice a week.

Which type of olive oil is best for treating dandruff?

Extra virgin olive oil is the best choice for dandruff, as it retains more nutrients and antioxidants beneficial for scalp health.

Is it safe to put olive oil on your scalp?

Yes, it is generally considered safe to massage olive oil on your scalp. It has hydrating and anti-oxidant properties that moisturize and soothe the scalp (1), (16).

Which is better for dandruff: coconut or olive oil?

While both coconut and olive oils are beneficial, olive oil may be better. Olive oil has a higher amount of vitamin E than coconut oil which is essential in improving hair health (17), (18), (19). Olive oil, in combination with other ingredients, can keep your scalp hydrated and may help fight dandruff (1).

What are the disadvantages of olive oil on hair?

Olive oil can make your hair more greasy and difficult to style. This can be especially problematic for people with straight and silky hair. It can also contribute to acne and blackheads if the hair is long enough to touch the skin.

Is extra virgin olive oil good for the scalp?

Yes, extra virgin olive oil has antioxidants and vitamins that improve scalp health. It protects and nourishes your scalp, preventing dryness and flaking.

Why does my scalp itch after applying olive oil?

Olive oil can feel too heavy for certain hair types and not rinsing it out thoroughly can result in an oil build-up on your scalp. This buildup may cause irritation and itching. Moreover, it can worsen existing scalp conditions, like seborrheic dermatitis. .

Does olive oil help with scalp inflammation?

Yes, olive oil has anti-inflammatory properties that can soothe and calm scalp irritation and reduce inflammation.

Is it safe to use olive oil on colored or chemically-treated hair to treat dandruff?

Yes, olive oil is a natural and safe option to treat dandruff on colored or chemically treated hair. It can hydrate and soothe the scalp and reduce dandruff due to its antioxidant properties. However, use it wisely and avoid applying it directly to the scalp, especially if you have an oily scalp or are prone to buildup.

Can olive oil cause any scalp irritation or allergic reactions?

Yes, though using olive oil on your scalp is generally safe, it can cause irritation or allergic reactions for some individuals. It is important to look out for symptoms such as redness, swelling, hives, and eczema. Moreover, applying olive oil directly to the scalp can exacerbate existing scalp conditions including seborrheic dermatitis that can lead to itching and flaking.

Illustration: How To Use Olive Oil To Treat Dandruff

Image: Stable Diffusion/StyleCraze Design Team

Dealing with stubborn dandruff? Watch the video below to discover how to use the nourishing olive oil to boost your scalp health and find a solution for your dandruff woes!

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Precious RutlinLicensed Cosmetologist

     

Precious Rutlin is a licensed cosmetologist, board-certified trichologist, complementary alternative health practitioner, and holistic health educator with 9 years of experience. She aims to bridge the gap between Western medicine and businesses that want to incorporate a mind, body, spirit approach to their organization’s culture.

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Anjali SayeeAssociate Editor

 

Anjali is an associate editor at StyleCraze. She specializes in hairstyles and hair and skin care and has written over 200 articles in these domains. She has 7 years of experience, and her philosophy about hair and skin care is simple: if you love and care for it, it will be healthy.

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Ramona SinhaEditor

Ramona is an editor at StyleCraze with 11 years of experience in writing and editing. She has authored over 200 articles on skin and hair care. She graduated from the University of Calcutta, West Bengal, and did her post-graduation from the University of Kalyani, West Bengal.

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Monomita ChakrabortyBeauty & Lifestyle Writer

Monomita has a graduate degree in mass communication and video production from St. Anthony's College, Shillong, and a master’s degree in journalism and mass communication from the Royal Global University, Guwahati. She is also a certified skincare coach with a keen interest in skin, hair, tattoos, nail art, and lifestyle trends.

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