6 Effective Home Remedies To Treat Scalp Infection

Scalp infection is a common yet uncomfortable condition that affects the skin on your head. It can cause itching, redness, flaking, tenderness, small bumps, or even painful sores. In some cases, you might also notice excessive dandruff or unusual hair fall. While it may start as mild irritation, ignoring it can make symptoms worse over time.

Scalp infections usually occur due to fungal growth, bacteria, excess oil buildup, sweat, poor hygiene, or sharing personal items like combs and towels. Warm and humid weather, tight hairstyles, and a weakened immune system can also increase the risk.

The good news? Most mild scalp infections can be managed with proper care and natural remedies. However, if symptoms become severe, spread quickly, or lead to heavy hair loss, medical treatment may be necessary. Early attention and good scalp hygiene play a key role in keeping your scalp healthy and infection-free.

Scalp infections can cause itching, redness, flaking, pain, dandruff-like patches, and even hair fall. They may be caused by fungal growth, bacteria, excess oil, sweat, or poor scalp hygiene. While mild infections can often be managed at home, severe or persistent symptoms need medical attention.

# Neem (Antifungal & Antibacterial Remedy)

Neem has powerful antifungal and antibacterial properties that help fight scalp infections and soothe itching.

How to use:

Boil a handful of neem leaves in water for 10–15 minutes.

Cool and strain the water.

Use it as a final rinse after shampoo.

Repeat 2–3 times a week.

You can also grind neem leaves into a paste and apply it to the scalp for 20 minutes before washing.

# Garlic Paste (Natural Antimicrobial)

Garlic contains allicin, which helps kill bacteria and fungi.

How to use:

Crush 3–4 garlic cloves.

Mix with 2 tablespoons of coconut oil.

Warm slightly and apply to the scalp.

Leave for 20–30 minutes and wash off.

Always do a patch test to avoid irritation.

# Apple Cider Vinegar (Balances Scalp pH)

Apple cider vinegar helps restore scalp pH and controls fungal growth.

How to use:

Mix 1 part apple cider vinegar with 2 parts water.

Apply to scalp after shampoo.

Leave for 5–10 minutes and rinse.

Use once or twice weekly.

# Coconut Oil with Tea Tree Oil

Tea tree oil has strong antifungal properties and reduces dandruff-related infections.

How to use:

Mix 2–3 drops of tea tree oil in 2 tablespoons coconut oil.

Massage into scalp.

Leave for 30 minutes before washing.

Do this twice a week.

# Aloe Vera Gel (Soothing & Healing)

Aloe vera soothes irritation, reduces inflammation, and promotes healing.

How to use:

Apply fresh aloe vera gel directly to scalp.

Leave for 30 minutes.

Wash with mild shampoo.

Use 2–3 times weekly.

# Yogurt & Lemon Mask (Controls Fungal Growth)

Yogurt contains probiotics and lemon has antifungal properties.

How to use:

Mix ½ cup plain yogurt with 1 tablespoon lemon juice.

Apply to scalp.

Leave for 20 minutes before washing.