If you’re tired of dealing with a flaky scalp, you may be surprised to learn that Listerine can be used to treat dandruff. That’s right – the mouthwash you use to freshen your breath can also help get rid of pesky flakes.
In this article, we’ll show you how to use Listerine to treat dandruff, so you can say goodbye to an itchy, irritated scalp and hello to healthy, beautiful hair.
Did You Know?
Listerine has been sold as a surgical disinfectant, floor cleanser, hair tonic, deodorant, and even a remedy for diseases such as diphtheria and dysentery.
Listerine And Dandruff
In 1879, Joseph Lawrence invented Listerine. He named it after Dr. Joseph Lister, who was attempting to develop the first antiseptic surgical solution. It was initially advertised as an antiseptic solution. It has been touted as a dandruff remover since the 1920s.
Lawrence conducted a rabbit experiment that show it might really prevent dandruff. Eventually, the corporation was fined for referring to dandruff as a germ. There is a lot of anecdotal evidence that Listerine can be used to get rid of dandruff. Let us examine what science has to offer.
How Listerine Prevents Dandruff
There is little to no scientific research to establish that Listerine helps reduce dandruff. Here are some ways Listerine may prevent dandruff:
- Listerine contains four main components: menthol, thymol, eucalyptol, and methyl salicylate.
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- Thyme is a well-known antiseptic that can help reduce dandruff.
- Menthol has antimicrobial properties. It prevents flaking and helps in keeping the scalp clean.
- Eucalyptol (1-8, Cineol) can work well as an anti-dandruff agent.
- Salicylic acid is often used in anti-dandruff shampoos, and it helps remove scalp scales/flakes.
- Exhibits antimicrobial and antifungal activities. Hence, it may help in killing the dandruff-causing fungi and improve scalp health.
- It is antiseptic and can help prevent viral and fungal scalp infections.
Here’s how you may use Listerine to get rid of dandruff.
How To Use
Listerine For Dandruff
You Will Need
- 1 tablespoon Listerine
- Cotton pad
Prep Time
- 2 minutes
Treatment Time
- 5-10 minutes
Method
- Soak the cotton pad in the Listerine and dab it onto your scalp.
- Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes.
- Wash your hair with a mild shampoo and finish with a conditioner.
How Often
- 2-3 times a week for 2 weeks.
Listerine And Water For Dandruff
Listerine has antifungal, antibacterial, and antimicrobial constituents. It is also antiseptic, which aids in the reduction of dandruff.
You Will Need
- 2 tablespoons Listerine
- 2 tablespoons water
- Spray bottle
Prep Time
- 2 minutes
Treatment Time
- 5 minutes
Method
- Pour the ingredients into a spray bottle and mix well.
- Wash your hair with your regular shampoo and condition.
- Spritz the diluted Listerine onto your scalp and let it sit for a couple of minutes.
- Rinse your scalp with cool/lukewarm water.
How Often?
- 3 times a week for 2 weeks.
Listerine And Coconut Oil
Coconut oil has the ability to permeate the hair shaft as well as the cortex. It has the ability to both prevent and heal hair damage. The oil aids in the penetration of it into the hair follicles prevents microbial infections and keeps the scalp clean.
You Will Need
- 2 tablespoons Listerine
- 2 tablespoons coconut oil
Prep Time
- 2 minutes
Treatment Time
- 5 minutes
Method
- Combine the Listerine with an equal amount of coconut oil and set aside.
- Wash your hair with a mild sulfate-free shampoo. Do not condition.
- Squeeze the excess water out of your hair.
- Tilting your head back, pour it and coconut oil mixture on your scalp.
- Massage your scalp and leave the oil mixture on for about 5 minutes.
- Wash the oil and Listerine out of your hair with a mild shampoo.
How Often?
- 3 times a week for 2 weeks.
With Vinegar
Vinegar is well-known for its ability to help balance the pH of the scalp. It is also believed to aid in scalp cleansing, which may promote scalp and hair health.
You Will Need
- 2 tablespoons Listerine
- 2 tablespoons water
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 cup water
- Spray bottle
Prep Time
- 2 minutes
Treatment Time
- 5 minutes
Method
- Pour equal parts of both into a spray bottle and mix well.
- Wash your hair with your regular shampoo and condition it.
- Spritz the diluted Listerine on your scalp and let it sit for a couple of minutes.
- Rinse your scalp with cool/lukewarm water.
- Dilute the apple cider vinegar with a cup of water. Pour this mixture through your hair as a final rinse.
How Often?
- Once a week.
Peppermint Oil
Peppermint oil has a cooling impact on the scalp and aids in the elimination of dandruff and lice. If you feel there is too much menthol and your scalp is tingling, you can add coconut oil.
You Will Need
- 1 cap Listerine
- 2 tablespoons peppermint oil
- 1 tablespoon coconut oil
Prep Time
- 2 minutes
Treatment Time
- 5-10 minutes
Process
- Mix the it and the oils.
- Apply the blend to your scalp.
- Keep it on for about 5-10 minutes.
- Wash it off with a mild shampoo.
How Often
- Once a week.
Additional Tips To Use Listerine For Dandruff
These are some precautions to take when using Listerine on your scalp:
- Listerine has the ability to sting your scalp. With this lotion, even minor abrasions on your scalp can worsen.
- It causes hair to dry out. So keep it to your scalp and keep it away from your mane.
- When applying to your scalp, always perform a patch test. Again, a diluted Listerine solution is required.
- To avoid touch with your hair, use conditioner about an inch above the roots before attempting these Listerine cures.
Why not give it a try now that you’ve learned about its many benefits?
After all, the internet appears to be infatuated with this practice, and many people claim to have had excellent outcomes.
These cures are not new and have been used for several decades. Hence, to get rid of dandruff, observe the safety precautions and check them out.
FAQs
Is Listerine Good for Itchy Scalp?
Yes, it can be effective in treating an itchy scalp. The menthol in Listerine has a cooling effect on the scalp, which can help alleviate itchiness and irritation. Additionally, the antiseptic properties of thyme, eucalyptol, and other ingredients in Listerine can help reduce the presence of bacteria or fungi that may contribute to an itchy scalp.
However, it’s important to note that it should not be used as a sole treatment for persistent or severe scalp itchiness, as there may be underlying medical conditions that require specific treatment.
Should I Use Listerine Every Day?
While Lit can be used to treat dandruff and itchy scalp, it’s not recommended to use it every day. It contains alcohol and other ingredients that can be harsh on the scalp and hair if overused. It’s best to limit use to 1-2 times per week as a scalp treatment, and to dilute it with water before applying it to the scalp.
Additionally, if you have sensitive skin or scalp, or if you experience any irritation or discomfort after using it, it’s best to discontinue use and consult with a healthcare professional.
Is Listerine Good for Scalp Psoriasis?
While it may provide some relief for scalp psoriasis symptoms, it’s not a proven treatment for the condition. Scalp psoriasis is a chronic autoimmune disorder that causes skin cells to grow too quickly, leading to thick, scaly patches on the scalp.
While some ingredients, such as thyme and eucalyptol, have antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties that may provide temporary relief, they are not a substitute for medical treatment.
It’s important to consult with a healthcare professional to develop an appropriate treatment plan for scalp psoriasis.
Conclusion
In summary, Listerine can be an effective natural remedy for dandruff when used appropriately. By following these simple steps, you can say goodbye to flakes and hello to a healthy, happy scalp.
