Apple cider vinegar (ACV) is well-known for its health and skincare benefits, but did you know it can also improve the health and appearance of your hair?
Experts, including a dermatologist, a trichologist, and hair specialists, reveal how an apple cider vinegar rinse can transform both your hair and scalp.
What Is Apple Cider Vinegar?
According to trichologist Gretchen Friese, apple cider vinegar is produced by crushing apples and extracting the juice.
Bacteria and yeast are added to the liquid, starting an alcoholic fermentation process that converts the juice’s sugars into alcohol.
In the final stage, the alcohol is transformed into vinegar through a second fermentation.
Not only is ACV recognized for its beauty-enhancing properties, but experts also discuss how it can benefit certain individuals by being incorporated into their hair care routines.
Read on to discover everything you need to know about using apple cider vinegar for healthier hair.
Benefits of Apple Cider Vinegar for Hair
Apple cider vinegar (ACV) is a powerful natural remedy for hair and scalp care. It offers several benefits that contribute to healthier, shinier hair.
Here are some of the ways ACV can improve the look and feel of your hair:
– Promotes a Healthy Scalp: ACV’s antibacterial and antifungal properties help balance the scalp’s pH, which may reduce dandruff caused by yeast buildup on oily skin areas.
– Reduces Color Fading: For color-treated hair, ACV can help seal the hair cuticle, preserving your hair color’s vibrancy.
– Detangles Hair: ACV is often recommended for those with knot-prone hair. Anecdotal evidence suggests it makes detangling easier, especially when used with a wide-tooth comb.
– Strengthens and Softens Hair: According to celebrity colorist Denis de Souza, ACV coats the hair cuticle, leaving hair softer, shinier, and stronger by sealing the cuticle and hair shaft.
– Fights Frizz: ACV can smooth the hair and help control frizz, which is particularly beneficial for curly or textured hair.
– Reduces Hair Loss: ACV’s ability to balance scalp pH and clear hair follicles of debris may contribute to reducing hair loss.
– Cleanses the Scalp: ACV effectively removes buildup from hair products without stripping the hair’s natural oils or color, leaving the scalp feeling refreshed.
Hair Type Considerations
Certain hair types may benefit more from apple cider vinegar rinses. For example, people with dandruff or those who wash their hair infrequently may find ACV helpful in breaking down buildup and gently exfoliating the scalp.
The antimicrobial properties of ACV can also combat dandruff, which is often caused by excess oil and yeast overgrowth.
Additionally, it helps balance scalp pH, promoting a healthier scalp environment.
How to Use Apple Cider Vinegar for Hair
To use apple cider vinegar effectively, follow these steps:
1. Dilute the ACV: Mix one part ACV with five parts water in a spray bottle (for example, 100 ml of ACV to 500 ml of water).
2. Apply to the Scalp: Spray the solution evenly onto your scalp.
3. Work It In: Massage the diluted vinegar into clean hair using your fingers.
4. Let It Sit: Allow the mixture to sit on your hair for 5-10 minutes.
5. Rinse Thoroughly: Rinse your hair and scalp with cool water.
6. Condition: Follow up with a light conditioner and rinse thoroughly to remove all product and vinegar residue.
This simple routine can leave your hair feeling clean, soft, and manageable while promoting a healthy scalp.
Potential Risks of Apple Cider Vinegar Hair Rinse
While apple cider vinegar (ACV) can be beneficial for hair, there are some potential risks to be aware of, including irritation and an unpleasant smell.
Using a homemade ACV rinse can be a cost-effective option, but it requires caution.
Start with a once-weekly application if using undiluted ACV in a DIY recipe, and never using it more than twice a week.
Overuse can lead to dryness and irritation. Proper dilution is also essential to prevent irritation, as undiluted ACV can be too harsh on the scalp and hair.
For a safer and more consistent result, optin for products that have ACV already incorporated into their formula.
These products are typically better formulated, often lack the strong smell of ACV, and can be used more regularly without causing irritation.
