Curd for Dandruff: Benefits, Hair Masks & Precautions

Is Curd Good For Dandruff?

Yes, dahi or curd can help reduce dandruff [1] on your scalp. In addition to being rich in nutrients, it contains anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties that help treat scalp infection and soothe itchiness and flakiness. Applying a curd hair mask, combined with other natural ingredients, helps keep your dandruff under control.

Benefits Of Curd For Dandruff

Now that you know the answer to the question, “Is curd good for dandruff, let us explore its benefits. Here is a breakdown of the various benefits of curd for dandruff:

• Rich in Probiotics:

  Curd is rich in probiotics [2] that help balance the scalp’s microbiome, lower inflammation and maintain your scalp health.

• Gentle Exfoliation with Lactic Acid:

  We all know that curd contains lactic acid [3]. It helps gently exfoliate your scalp, removes flakiness and prevents fungal growth.

• Soothes Inflammation and Relieves Itching:

  Curd is known for being rich in lactic acid, which contains anti-inflammatory properties. It reduces inflammation on your scalp, redness, itchiness, and discomfort that come with scalp irritation.

• Deep Moisture and Scalp Hydration:

  Curd is a natural conditioner for your scalp. It contains moisturising properties that offer deep nourishment and hydration to your scalp.

• Balances Scalp pH:

  Applying a curd hair mask helps regulate the pH levels of your scalp and maintains your scalp hygiene.

• Strengthens Follicles:

  Using curd for a dandruff mask benefits your hair by strengthening the hair follicles, thereby reducing hair fall.

• Reduces Dandruff and Scalp Irritation:

  The antibacterial [4] properties of curd help reduce dandruff on your scalp and relieve irritation.

Choosing the Right Curd: Does it Matter?

If you think you can use any curd that is found on a supermarket’s shelf, you are mistaken. Here’s what you should know when using curd for dandruff:

• Plain, Unsweetened Curd:

Avoid any curd that contains added sugar, artificial flavours, or fruit. Use only plain curd, preferably made at home.

• Full-Fat vs. Low-Fat:

A full-fat curd offers maximum moisturising benefits. Always prefer this, as it contains essential fats that can deeply hydrate and nourish your scalp. If it is unavailable or if you have an extremely oily scalp, you can use low-fat plain curd.

• The Power of Sour Curd:

Prefer a slightly sour curd because it is more effective. It contains abundant lactic acid content, which enhances its exfoliating and antifungal properties.

• Homemade vs. Store-Bought:

It is always preferable to use homemade curd, made with just milk. It is pure and does not contain any preservatives or stabilisers that are often found in some store-bought varieties. Nevertheless, you can even use a good quality, plain, unsweetened store-bought curd.

5 Powerful DIY Curd Hair Masks To Reduce Dandruff

If you are wondering how to apply curd on hair for dandruff, here is the answer. You can use it as a hair mask by combining some ingredients to curd. Here are some of the most widely tried DIY curd hair masks to get rid of dandruff:

1.The Classic Plain Curd Mask:

This is the most simplest DIY home remedy that you can easily try without any additional efforts.

Best For:

• Individuals who need hydration, hair repair, or strengthening, as well as those with an itchy scalp or irritation, may benefit from this treatment.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup of fresh plain and unflavoured curd

Instructions:

• Take 1 cup of plain curd and apply it as a thick layer to your scalp and hair.
• Make sure your hair is damp before applying.
• Apply it from the roots to the mid-length and the ends.
• Gently massage the scalp with your fingers for 5 to 10 minutes to allow the ingredients to penetrate.
• Leave it for 30-40 minutes until all the nutrients get absorbed.
• Rinse it thoroughly with lukewarm water. Followed with a mild shampoo and a conditioner.

Frequency:

Use this weekly once as a conditioner treatment for your hair.

2.Curd and Lemon Mask:

• A hair mask made of curd and lemon juice is an excellent anti-dandruff home remedy.

Best For:

• Effective for dandruff and reducing scalp irritation.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup of fresh plain and unflavoured curd
• 2 tablespoons of fresh lemon juice

Instructions:

• Take 1 cup of plain curd in a bowl.
• Add 2 tablespoons of fresh lemon juice to it and mix it well.
• Apply this directly to your scalp and hair.
• Gently massage the scalp with your fingers for 5 to 10 minutes to allow the ingredients to penetrate.
• Cover your hair with a shower cap and leave it for 30 minutes.
• Rinse it thoroughly with lukewarm water, followed by a mild shampoo.

Frequency:

• Use this weekly once or twice for the best results.

3.Curd and Fenugreek:

If you are looking for a DIY curd hair mask that helps reduce dandruff and also promotes hair growth, a curd and fenugreek mask is all you need.

Best For:

• People with hair thinning, hair loss, and dandruff, as well as those with scalp irritation.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup of fresh plain and unflavoured curd
• 2 tablespoons of ground fenugreek seeds (soaked overnight)

Instructions:

• Take 1 cup of plain curd in a bowl.
• Add 2 tablespoons of ground fenugreek seed paste to it and mix it well.
• Apply this to your scalp and hair from the roots to the ends.
• Gently massage the scalp with your fingers for 5 to 10 minutes to allow the ingredients to penetrate.
• Leave it for 45 minutes.
• Rinse it thoroughly with lukewarm water, followed by a mild shampoo.

Frequency:

• Use this monthly twice for the best results.

4.Curd and Honey Mask:

Applying a hair mask prepared by combining curd and honey helps moisturise your hair and restore its natural shine.

Best For:

• People with dry or frizzy hair

Ingredients:

• 1 cup of fresh plain and unflavoured curd
• 2 tablespoons of honey

Instructions:

• Take 1 cup of plain curd in a bowl.
• Add 2 tablespoons of honey to it and mix it well.
• Apply this to your scalp and hair from the roots to the ends.
• Gently massage the scalp with your fingers for 5 to 10 minutes to allow the ingredients to penetrate.
• Leave it for 45 minutes.
• Rinse it thoroughly with lukewarm water, followed by a mild shampoo.

Frequency:

• Use this once or twice a week for the best results.

5.Curd, Olive Oil, and Egg Mask:

If you are looking for a deep-conditioning hair treatment, a hair mask prepared using curd, olive oil and eggs is the best.

Best For:

• People with dry or frizzy hair

Ingredients:

• 1 cup of fresh plain and unflavoured curd
• 1 tablespoon of olive oil
• 1 whole egg

Instructions:

• Crack one whole egg into a bowl.
• Add 1 cup of curd and 1 tablespoon of olive oil to it.
• Mix it well to form a paste.
• Apply this to your scalp and hair from the roots to the ends.
• Gently massage the scalp with your fingers for 5 to 10 minutes to allow the ingredients to penetrate.
• Leave it for 30-45 minutes.
• Rinse it thoroughly with lukewarm water, followed by a mild shampoo.

Frequency:

• Use this once a week for the best results.

Step-by-Step Application Guide for Perfect Results

The right application of curd can help you get the maximum benefits of curd for hair. Here is the step-by-step guide on how to apply curd on hair for dandruff:

• Always choose a fresh, plain and unflavoured curd.
• Prepare the hair mask by adding ingredients suitable for your specific hair type.
• Always dampen your hair before applying the curd hair mask.
• Apply the mask evenly by dividing your hair into sections.
• After applying, gently massage your scalp in circular motions for 5 to 10 minutes.
• Leave the mask on for about 30 to 45 minutes.
• Rinse it thoroughly with lukewarm water.
• Wash your hair using a mild sulfate-free shampoo to remove any residue or smell.
• Follow it with a conditioner if required.

Precautions And Common Mistakes To Avoid

Now that you know how to use curd for dandruff, it is essential to do it right away. Here are some precautions to follow that will help you avoid any mistakes while applying:

• Do not overapply or use in excess, as it can make your scalp and hair feel greasy.
• Rinse thoroughly to remove the smell of curd or hard residue on the scalp or hair.
• Do not leave the mask for an extended period.
• Do not use old or stale curd.
• Always perform a patch test before applying the curd mask to check for any allergic reactions.
• Use only appropriate ingredients for mixing. Avoid using harsh chemicals.

When Should You Consult A Dermatologist?

It is best to see a dermatologist if your dandruff persists. You may have been trying these home remedies consistently for quite a while, but with little or no results. Know that you need a professional’s help to address the underlying cause and provide an effective, long-lasting solution.

Takeaway

Curd is a natural anti-dandruff ingredient that helps reduce dandruff and scalp irritation. However, these results are only temporary. Moreover, there is only anecdotal evidence on the benefits of curd for dandruff. For a long-term solution that guarantees the best results, we recommend consulting a dermatologist. At Oliva, our dermatologists assess your scalp and hair condition before prescribing any treatment. They ensure it caters to every individual’s needs.