Image: istockphoto
Come on and admit it. Any time you hear the word “fungus,” you freak out a little. Dealing with scalp fungus may not only cause a mental panic, but it can be physically uncomfortable.
A simple itchy scalp is one thing, but scalp fungus is a whole new ball game. The question then becomes, how do you determine if you truly have scalp fungus.
4 signs you have scalp fungus
Scaly patches
Hair loss or thinning
Pain or tenderness in the area
Physical rashes
There are several types of fungus that can impact the scalp, like Dermatophytes and Tinea capitis (ringworm”>. The only way to find out the type affecting your scalp is to see a dermatologist.
If you’re looking to try some DIY remedies to treat your scalp fungus, you’re in luck. These treatments use all-natural ingredients you most likely have in your kitchen.
1. ACV Rinse
Apple cider vinegar is used for practically everything nowadays – in recipes, skin care routines and now, for scalp relief. ACV acts as a great clarifier with antifungal properties. Pour 1 part ACV with 2 parts water into a bottle with a nozzle tip, and pour it onto your scalp. Let the treatment sit for 20 minutes before shampooing your curls.
High-quality apple cider vinegar are “the mother,” of a colony of good bacteria. Look for this type of language on the packaging.
2. Neem and Coconut Oil
If your itchy scalp is driving you crazy (but you know scratching will only make things worse”> you’ll want to get some oil on it pronto. Tea tree oil isn’t the only oil good for getting rid of fungi and bacteria. Neem oil has been used for centuries in Ayurvedic medicine and contains an all-natural anti-inflammatory. Combine that neem oil with coconut oil, and you’ve got double power. Mix one part meem oil with one part coconut oil and apply it directly to your scalp three to four times per to stop fungus in its tracks.
Read: How to Try Ayurveda – For People Who’ve Never Heard of Ayurveda
3. Garlic & Honey
Using garlic and honey for anything other than food may sound a bit weird, but they can be a powerful force when it comes to treating your scalp. Mix 80 percent honey with 20 percent water. Then, add one very finely chopped up clove of garlic and combine. Apply the mixture to your hair in small sections and let sit for 30 minutes before shampooing.
If you’re worried about smelling like garlic for the rest of the day, know that honey masks much of the garlic smell, and your shampoo will do a good job of getting rid of the odor altogether.
4. Honey Water
If garlic isn’t your thing, using honey alone can kill many microorganisms that can be causing your itchy scalp. Sure, honey seems sticky, but the texture and its antibacterial properties can help you find some relief.
Combine 80 percent honey with 20 percent water, and spread it directly onto your scalp.
What DIY remedies have you used to treat scalp fungus at home?
Read next: 4 Types of Scalp Flakes, and How to Get Rid of Them
