Women and men can both suffer from foul-smelling hair. There are many causes that can make any person’s hair smell. However, the longer the person suffers from foul-smelling hair, the more he or she loses confidence and starts shying away from crowds and close contact to avoid embarrassing moments.
Smelly Hair
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Foul-smelling hair is caused by a condition known as “Smelly Hair Syndrome”.
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Both men and women can suffer from this syndrome.
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Both short and long hair can also have a foul smell with this syndrome.
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The syndrome is characterized by moldy or muggy odor coming from the scalp and hair.
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Contrary to popular belief, improper personal hygiene is not the main cause of this syndrome though it can worsen the condition.
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There are many causes that can contribute to “Smelly Hair Syndrome”.
What Causes Smelly Hair
A smelly scalp leads to bad-smelling hair. Maintaining a healthy scalp will help avoid any such problems with hair that smells bad.
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Fungal infection – a moist and oily scalp promotes fungal growth that can emit a foul smell.
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Bacterial infection – a moist and oily scalp is also conducive to bacterial growth that can cause a foul odor.
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Environmental factors – such as too much exposure to the sun or air pollution can cause build up of dirt and grime on the scalp that can lead to infection and foul odor.
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Low immunity or low immune system – this makes any person vulnerable to infection and foul-smelling hair.
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Other causes – excessive sweating, improper hygiene, overactive oil glands on the scalp, strenuous physical activity, stress, hormonal imbalance and thyroid disorders.
How to Get Rid of Smelly Hair with Home Remedies
These simple, easy-to-make home remedies for scalp care can help treat any infection and leave the hair smelling fresh and clean.
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Baking soda and water – mixed into a solution and massaged onto the scalp.
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Apple cider vinegar and water – rinsed into the hair to help remove excessive scalp and hair oil and restores scalp pH.
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Rosemary oil and lemon juice – applied overnight and rinsed in the morning.
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Onion juice – applied onto the scalp for 15 to 20 minutes and rinsed with warm water.
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Tea tree oil plus margosa oil – a natural antiseptic for the scalp and hair.
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Tomato juice – applied on the scalp and hair for 15-20 minutes and washed off to help scalp and hair pH balance.
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Water and thyme sprigs – helps removed bad odor by removing excessive oil.
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Yogurt and lemon juice – applied on the scalp for an hour and then washed off.
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Dietary changes – reducing the intake of foods with a pungent odor such as onion and garlic and eating a healthy, balanced diet.
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Hydration – hydrating the body by drinking sufficient amounts of water.
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Avoid stress – practice relaxation techniques to help avoid tensions and stress.