Disclaimer: This content has been produced purely for informational and educational purposes only and is never intended to be used as a substitute for professional medical guidelines including diagnosis, advice, and treatment. 

 

Apple cider vinegar has been used as a popular home remedy to treat various hair and skin issues for centuries. It is rich in a number of natural ingredients such as acetic acid, minerals, B vitamins, and probiotics that possess several medicinal properties including anti-inflammatory, antibacterial and keratolytic, making it great for a variety of hair conditions. Though scientific studies on the effects of apple cider vinegar on hair are lacking, most of them have been supported by traditional uses throughout history. 

In this article, we’ll be exploring the benefits of using apple cider vinegar for hair in a little bit of detail that are supported by traditional uses for centuries. So, let’s dig deeper.    

Table of contents 

• What is apple cider vinegar? 
• Benefits of apple cider vinegar for hair
• How to use apple cider vinegar for hair 
• Precautions and side effects 
• Final words 

What is apple cider vinegar? 

Apple cider vinegar is apple juice that is made by fermenting crushed or smashed apples. It takes two fermentation processes. During the first fermentation, the sugar molecules in apples are broken down and turned into alcohol by yeast or bacteria. Then, during the second fermentation, the Acetobacter bacteria finally transform the alcohol into acetic acid, the major active compound in apple cider vinegar. 

Benefits of apple cider vinegar for hair 

Apple cider vinegar has been shown to have several medicinal properties such as antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory that can offer an array of potential benefits for your scalp and hair. While many people may necessarily need it to treat some hair problems, others may keep it in their regular hair care routine just because it makes their hair look and feel amazing. Wanna know how? Let’s take a look at some most prevalent benefits of apple cider vinegar for hair:  

Helps in balancing scalp and hair pH levels 

The ideal pH level of the scalp and hair is between 4 and 5. Commercial shampoos with high alkalinity may disrupt the pH balance and contribute to dryness, hair friction, and breakage. The high acidic nature along with antifungal and antibacterial properties of apple cider vinegar may help maintain a healthy pH balance of hair and scalp and thus may help promote stronger, smoother, and shinier hair. 

Cleanses scalp and hair follicles 

Apple cider vinegar is effective in removing build ups or debris from the scalp as well as hair follicles and makes them really clean. 

Helps with hair loss 

Since apple cider vinegar has significant potential to keep the scalp’s pH level balanced and clean the hair follicles from debris buildups, it can hugely help in preventing and managing hair loss, especially those that are caused by free radical damages. 

Helps treat dandruff 

Dandruff is a type of buildup in which a large amount of yeast gets stuck on certain oily areas on the scalp skin. The antifungal and antibacterial properties of apple cider vinegar can help keep these buildups away and promote a healthy scalp as well as hair growth. 

Lowers the risk of color fading 

Apple cider vinegar has a miraculous ability to smooth and seal the protective outer layer of hair called cuticles that can lock in moisture, vital proteins, and lipids. This can prevent color pigment loss and restore the shine of hair.  

Acts as a great detangler 

Apple cider vinegar can hugely help people who have hair that is prone to tangles or knots. Mixing apple cider vinegar with water in a one-to-one ratio and spraying the solution before combing can help you get rid of your tangled mess quickly. 

Softens and strengthens hair 

Apple cider vinegar can close and coat the hair cuticles. This can help protect the hair and strengthen the hair shaft, as well as leave them soft and shiny.  

How to use apple cider vinegar for hair 

Apple cider vinegar can be used in many ways depending on hair and scalp conditions. It can be applied as hair rinses, detanglers, and different types of hair masks for different hair and scalp conditions such as damaged hair, dry hair, or itchy scalp. For external use, you can consider taking liquid apple cider vinegar or pricking apple cider vinegar capsules as well. 

While applying apple cider vinegar directly to the scalp and hair has been found to have many beneficial effects on hair, many clinicians recommend internal intake along with external application of apple cider vinegar to get the benefits from the inside out. In this case, doses may range from 500 mg to 2000 mg per day depending on the conditions and goals of use.      

Precautions and side effects 

Since apple cider vinegar is acidic in nature, applying directly to the skin or hair may harm the skin and hair, particularly when used for a longer duration. Therefore, for each and every user, it’s important to learn the methods of use properly to avoid any unexpected situations. However, apple cider vinegar must be diluted into the water before applying directly. 

Besides, intake of apple cider vinegar in large amounts may cause a fall in potassium levels, erode tooth enamels, and several gastrointestinal issues such as nausea, diarrhea, vomiting, or abdominal pain. 

Furthermore, apple cider vinegar may interfere with the efficacy of certain medications such as diabetic medications. Therefore, like with all home remedies, it’s recommended to consult with a licensed naturopathic doctor prior to using apple cider vinegar to determine what method of use would be best for your specific health and hair condition.  

Final words

Apple cider vinegar has been found effective for improving hair and scalp conditions for centuries. It has the potential to help balance scalp and hair pH levels and to promote stronger, luster, and healthier hair. Since apple cider vinegar has acidic actions, it’s important to use it carefully. It’s always the best idea to consult with a licensed naturopathic doctor prior to using apple cider vinegar for hair or any other benefits.

Here you can see Vorst’s pure and natural Apple Cider Vinegar with Vitamin C Capsules.   

Important resources: 

1. https://www.byrdie.com/apple-cider-vinegar-for-hair
2. https://www.urbancompany.com/blog/beauty/apple-cider-vinegar-for-hair/
3. https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/319396#what-are-the-proven-health-benefits-of-vinegar
4. https://www.healthline.com/health/apple-cider-vinegar-hair#research
5. https://www.realsimple.com/beauty-fashion/hair/hair-care/apple-cider-vinegar-for-hair