Balakubak Hacks: Effective Home Remedies for Dandruff in the Philippines

Balakubak: More Than Just Flakes

If you’ve ever noticed tiny white flakes falling on your favorite dark shirt during a hot Manila afternoon, you’re not alone. Balakubak, or dandruff, is a common scalp issue that affects many Filipinos, whether you’re in the bustling streets of Quezon City, commuting in MRT trains, or lounging under the sun in Boracay.

While dandruff isn’t dangerous, it can be frustrating, embarrassing, and sometimes itchy. The good news? With consistent care, simple home remedies, and a bit of scalp TLC, you can reduce flakes and restore a healthy scalp—without immediately reaching for expensive salon treatments.

Why Balakubak Happens

Dandruff occurs when the scalp sheds skin cells faster than normal. Common triggers include:

• Dry scalp – especially during the dry season in the Philippines.

• Oily scalp – excess sebum encourages yeast growth.

• Stress and lifestyle – Metro Manila traffic, long work hours, and inconsistent sleep can worsen scalp health.

• Weather and humidity – Tropical climate makes scalp prone to sweat and oil buildup.

• Hair care habits – Frequent use of hair gels, sprays, or cheap shampoos without proper cleansing.

Understanding the cause is the first step to managing dandruff effectively.

Balakubak (Dandruff) Hacks You Can Try At Home

Here are tried-and-tested strategies that Filipinos can do without leaving home:

1. Apple Cider Vinegar Rinse

ACV helps restore the scalp’s pH and reduces yeast growth. Mix equal parts apple cider vinegar and water, apply to your scalp, leave for 10–15 minutes, and rinse thoroughly. Doing this once a week can make a noticeable difference.

2. Coconut Oil Massage

A staple in Filipino households, coconut oil not only moisturizes dry scalps but also has antibacterial properties. Massage 1–2 tablespoons into your scalp, leave for 30 minutes, then shampoo as usual.

3. Tea Tree Oil Boost

Add a few drops of tea tree oil to your shampoo. Known for its antifungal properties, it helps control flakes without harsh chemicals.

4. Aloe Vera Relief

Aloe vera gel, widely available in local markets and sari-sari stores, soothes irritation and helps reduce inflammation. Apply fresh gel directly to the scalp, leave for 15–20 minutes, then rinse.

5. Baking Soda Exfoliation

Gently scrub your scalp with a teaspoon of baking soda mixed with water to remove dead skin buildup. Limit to once a week to avoid irritation.

6. Adjust Hair Washing Frequency

For oily scalps, daily gentle shampooing may help. For dry scalps, 2–3 times per week is often enough. Use sulfate-free or anti-dandruff shampoos available in local stores.

7. Diet and Hydration

Filipino favorites like adobo, fried food, and instant noodles are delicious but can aggravate oil production. Incorporate more fruits, vegetables, and hydration to help scalp health from the inside out.

Lifestyle Tips for Filipino Scalp Health

• Protect your scalp from the sun: Use hats or scarves during hot afternoons in Manila or Cebu.

• Avoid heavy hair products: Pomades, waxes, and sprays can trap oil and worsen flakes.

• Manage stress: Traffic jams, deadlines, and college exams can affect your scalp. Short mindfulness breaks help.

• Regular trims: Even a minor trim helps remove split ends and reduce scalp tension.

When to See a Professional

If home remedies don’t work, flakes worsen, or you notice redness and persistent itching, it’s time for a professional scalp assessment. A skilled stylist can recommend medicated shampoos, scalp treatments, or professional advice tailored to your hair type.

Book Your Scalp Check & Hair Care at Barbierro Barbershop

Filipinos love experimenting with hairstyles—but healthy hair starts with a healthy scalp. At Barbierro Barbershop, the Philippines’ first queer barbershop, we not only help you rock bold cuts, perms, or styles but also provide personalized scalp care tips to fight balakubak effectively.

Whether you want a fresh trim, a cold perm, or an anti-dandruff treatment, our stylists combine professional expertise with understanding of local hair types and climate conditions.

Don’t let flakes steal your confidence. Save your seat today through our website and experience scalp care and styling that’s uniquely you.