Apple cider vinegar (ACV) is a popular home remedy touted for its potential health benefits. Made by fermenting apples with live cultures, minerals, and acids, ACV is believed to improve scalp health, strengthen hair, and enhance shine. It's often suggested as a natural solution for various hair concerns, including relieving an itchy scalp and strengthening thinning hair, thanks to its antibacterial, antifungal, and antiviral properties. However, it's crucial to acknowledge that scientific research on the benefits of ACV for hair health remains limited and yields mixed results.
ACV is an acidic substance, primarily composed of acetic acid, which contributes to its distinct smell and flavor. The natural pH level of hair is slightly acidic, ranging between 3.67 and 5.5. Hair that appears dull, brittle, or frizzy often has a more alkaline pH, exceeding 7 on the pH scale.
Using an acidic substance like ACV, which has a pH level between 2 and 3, may help restore balance by lowering the hair's pH. This increased acidity may support smoothness, strength, and shine. A 2019 study in Pediatric Dermatology found that diluted ACV soaks (0.5% acetic acid) decreased skin pH, though the effect was temporary, lasting only 15 minutes in those with atopic dermatitis and 60 minutes in controls. It's important to note that no research has directly examined the role of ACV in regulating hair pH.
ACV is a known home disinfectant capable of killing various bacteria, including Escherichia coli and Candida albicans. It may also combat Staphylococcus aureus, a common bacterial cause of folliculitis, a hair condition that can lead to hair loss. The acetic acid in ACV possesses antibacterial, antifungal, and antioxidant properties, potentially aiding in the treatment of scalp conditions like head lice and pruritus, and promoting the healing of wounds and infections.
A 2019 study suggested that undiluted ACV has potent antimicrobial activity, but its antifungal activity decreases at lower concentrations. This implies that while ACV can limit the growth of certain microbes, diluted solutions may be less effective for scalp application.
Read also: Preventing Hair Loss from Dandruff
Many believe apple cider vinegar can relieve dandruff symptoms by rebalancing the scalp’s natural pH levels and preventing the growth of fungi that contribute to dry, itchy skin.
An ACV wash is a simple way to incorporate this remedy into your hair care routine:
For best results, try using the ACV rinse up to twice per week. Some individuals use ACV as a pre-shampoo scalp treatment, massaging it in, processing for 10 to 15 minutes, and then shampooing it out. Others use it as a cleansing agent on non-shampoo days to refresh and balance the scalp, or apply it up to three times a week to spot treat itchy or oily scalps.
Before applying ACV to your scalp, perform a patch test, especially if you have sensitive skin. Apply a few drops of diluted or fully concentrated ACV to the back of your hand and monitor for any signs of irritation, such as redness, itching, or burning, over several hours. If no irritation occurs, you can proceed with applying the ACV wash to your scalp.
Start with a low concentration of ACV, such as 1-2 tablespoons per 8 fluid ounces of water, once or twice a week. Gradually increase the amount up to 5 tablespoons if needed. Discontinue use if you experience any scalp irritation or worsening dandruff symptoms.
Read also: Expert Tips: Dandruff Control
While ACV offers potential benefits, it's essential to be aware of the risks:
While both clarifying shampoos and ACV rinses aim to remove buildup, they differ in their approach. Clarifying shampoos use alkaline detergents and surfactants to remove residual product or oils, which can sometimes strip the scalp of healthy oils and leave the cuticle open, leading to dryness and color fading. ACV, on the other hand, closes the cuticle to retain moisture while exfoliating and introducing antimicrobial properties to reduce unwanted bacteria. Some clarifying shampoos even incorporate apple cider vinegar to remove product buildup without stripping the hair.
Experts recommend ACV for nearly every hair type and texture, especially those with thick, curly hair due to its smoothing and frizz-fighting properties. However, it’s best to avoid ACV if you have super dry, over-processed, or exceptionally fine strands. If you have mechanical damage from bleaching, excess sun exposure, or overuse of hot tools, or if you have very fine hair that’s naturally brittle, ACV might be too strong. Always perform a strand test before applying ACV all over your hair if you're unsure whether it's right for you.
If you prefer ready-made products, consider these options:
Read also: Using Hair Serum for Dandruff
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