Apple cider vinegar (ACV) has emerged as a popular home remedy, celebrated for its potential antibacterial, antifungal, and antiviral properties. Made by fermenting apples with live cultures, minerals, and acids, ACV is believed to improve scalp health, strengthen hair, and boost shine. While research on these benefits is still limited and mixed, many people have integrated ACV into their hair care routines.
ACV's high acetic acid content gives it a strong smell and flavor. The natural pH level of hair ranges from 3.67 to 5.5, making it slightly acidic. Hair that appears dull, brittle, or frizzy often has a more alkaline pH. As a highly acidic substance with a pH level between 2 and 3, ACV may help lower pH, restoring balance to promote smoothness, strength, and shine. Dermatologist Yoram Harth, MD, explains that alkaline shampoos and conditioners can disrupt the hair's pH balance, leading to increased porosity and frizz. ACV can counteract this by rebalancing pH, closing open cuticles, and making hair stronger and shinier.
ACV is a well-known home disinfectant capable of killing various bacteria, including Escherichia coli and Candida albicans. It may also target Staphylococcus aureus, a common bacterial cause of folliculitis, which can lead to hair loss. Research indicates that the acetic acid in ACV has antibacterial, antifungal, and antioxidant properties that can aid in treating scalp conditions like head lice and pruritus, and boost the healing of wounds and infections.
ACV can balance and soothe the scalp, addressing issues like dryness, itchiness, and dandruff. Celebrity hairstylist Clyde Haygood notes that a clarified scalp and balanced pH can reduce dandruff. The antimicrobial properties of ACV help control bacteria or fungi that contribute to scalp and hair problems, according to Cleveland Clinic experts.
ACV is more acidic than most regular shampoos, making it effective at exfoliating dead skin cells and washing away buildup from hard water and hair products like dry shampoo. This allows hair care products to be more effective.
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By removing grease, environmental pollutants, and product buildup, ACV gives the scalp and hair follicles a clean environment to grow new hair. As McKnight notes, this enhances hair's shine and reduces frizz.
ACV can reduce excess natural oils at the root, making it suitable for oily or fine hair. It is gentler than most clarifying shampoos and can be used more frequently. Philip B., a hair and scalp expert, suggests using it every time you wash your hair to balance pH, close the cuticle, and restore shine.
ACV balances the scalp's pH and clears inflammation within hair follicles, which can reduce hair loss. It strengthens strands over time, bringing more balance to the scalp and reducing stress on the area.
Dr. Harth explains that most hair colors are alkaline, which opens the hair cuticle and increases hair porosity. The slight acidity of ACV can extend the life and vibrancy of hair color. For best results, dilute ACV with water (1 to 8 ratio) and apply it right after rinsing off the color.
An ACV wash is simple to make: mix 2 to 4 tablespoons of ACV with 16 ounces of water. After shampooing and conditioning, pour the mixture evenly over your hair, working it into your scalp. Let it sit for a couple of minutes, then rinse it out. Incorporate the ACV rinse into your hair care routine twice per week.
Read also: The Benefits of Apple Cider Vinegar
A step-by-step guide to an apple cider vinegar hair rinse:
ACV is beneficial for those seeking added shine, smoothing properties, or itch relief. Cleveland notes that any hair type suffering from frizzy hair and dehydration can benefit from ACV. Haygood adds that those with fine, limp, lifeless hair that tends to get oily can also benefit immensely. However, individuals with dry hair types should never use ACV on their hair more than once a week, according to Dr. Harth.
Personal sensitivities should also be considered. If you have sensitive or easily irritated skin, ACV might not be ideal. If you decide to try an ACV hair rinse, use a very small, diluted amount.
McKnight considers ACV safe for all hair types and textures, even color-treated hair, working especially well for those who use a lot of products like dry shampoo and hairspray.
While DIY ACV rinses are popular, several pre-mixed hair treatments offer added benefits.
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While claims abound about ACV's ability to promote hair growth or restore hair loss, there is limited scientific evidence to support these claims. The Belgravia Centre, a hair loss treatment specialist, asserts that ACV will not cure or treat hair loss. Its primary benefit is as a clarifying hair rinse that removes product buildup.
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