7 Proven Benefits Of Apple Cider Vinegar For Skin
Apple cider vinegar has gained popularity as a natural remedy for various skin issues.
This versatile ingredient offers several benefits when applied topically or included in skincare routines.
You can use apple cider vinegar to improve your skin’s health and appearance.
This simple kitchen staple may help address common skin concerns effectively and affordably, from balancing pH levels to fighting acne-causing bacteria.
1: Reduces Acne Scarring
Apple cider vinegar may help reduce acne scars.
Its acidic nature can exfoliate your skin and lighten dark spots.
You can mix equal parts apple cider vinegar and water.
Then, apply this solution to scars with a cotton ball and rinse it off after a few minutes.
Use this treatment a few times a week. Be careful not to overdo it, as it might irritate your skin.
2: Balances Skin pH Levels
Apple cider vinegar can help balance your skin’s pH levels.
Your skin needs to maintain a slightly acidic pH to stay healthy. ACV’s natural acidity helps restore this balance.
When you use ACV on your skin, it can bring the pH back to normal.
This can reduce redness and irritation. It may also help with oily or dry skin problems.
3: Exfoliates Dead Skin Cells
Apple cider vinegar can help remove dead skin cells from your face and body.
It contains natural alpha hydroxy acids that gently lift away old, dull skin.
Using ACV as part of your skincare routine can make your skin look brighter and smoother. Try mixing it with water to make a mild exfoliating toner.
4: Tightens Pores
Apple cider vinegar can help tighten your pores.
It acts as an astringent on your skin, which means it can shrink the appearance of large pores.
To use it, mix equal parts water and apple cider vinegar. Then, apply this to your face with a cotton ball and rinse off after a few minutes.
5: Fights Bacterial Infections
Apple cider vinegar can help fight skin infections.
It has antimicrobial properties that may reduce harmful bacteria on your skin.
You can apply diluted apple cider vinegar to cuts or wounds. This may help prevent infection and speed up healing.
Some people use it to treat acne. The vinegar’s acids might kill acne-causing bacteria on your face.
6: Soothes Sunburn
Apple cider vinegar can help soothe sunburned skin.
Mix equal parts water and apple cider vinegar, then apply the solution gently to the burned area with a soft cloth.
The vinegar’s acids may ease pain and redness. It might also speed up healing.
7: Reduces Age Spots
Apple cider vinegar can help fade age spots on your skin. It contains alpha-hydroxy acids that gently exfoliate the skin’s surface.
This process removes dead skin cells and reveals fresher, brighter skin underneath.
To use it, mix equal parts apple cider vinegar and water.
Then, apply this solution to your age spots with a cotton ball, let it sit for a few minutes, and rinse off.
How Apple Cider Vinegar Benefits the Skin
Apple cider vinegar offers several ways to improve skin health.
It can help balance your skin’s natural pH and remove dead skin cells for a smoother complexion.
Balancing Skin pH
Your skin has a natural pH level that’s slightly acidic.
This helps protect against harmful bacteria and maintain a healthy skin barrier. Apple cider vinegar can help restore this balance if your skin becomes too alkaline.
Using ACV on your skin may:
- Reduce oiliness
- Minimize acne breakouts
- Improve skin texture
To use ACV as a toner, mix 1 part vinegar with 2 parts water. Apply with a cotton ball after cleansing.
Start with once a day and increase if your skin tolerates it well.
Exfoliating and Removing Dead Skin Cells
The acids in apple cider vinegar act as a gentle exfoliant.
This helps remove dead skin cells that can clog pores and make your skin look dull.
Benefits of ACV exfoliation include:
- Smoother skin texture
- Brighter complexion
- Reduced appearance of fine lines
Mix equal parts ACV and water with a tablespoon of sugar to make an exfoliating scrub.
Then, gently massage onto damp skin in circular motions and rinse thoroughly with lukewarm water.
Use this scrub once or twice a week. Be careful not to over-exfoliate, as this can irritate your skin.
Incorporating Apple Cider Vinegar Into Your Skincare Routine
Apple cider vinegar can boost your skin health when used properly. Here are some ways to add it to your skincare routine safely and effectively.
DIY Skincare Recipes
Mix 1 part apple cider vinegar with 2 parts water to make a simple toner. Apply it with a cotton pad after washing your face.
For a face wash, blend equal parts ACV and water. Then, gently massage onto damp skin and rinse well.
Try an ACV bath soak by adding a few tablespoons to your bathwater. This can help soothe skin conditions like eczema.
For spot treatment, dab diluted ACV directly onto blemishes with a Q-tip. Leave on for a few minutes before rinsing.
Make an exfoliating scrub by mixing ACV with sugar or oatmeal. Then, gently massage the skin in circular motions and rinse.
Precautions and Safety Tips
Always dilute apple cider vinegar before applying it to your skin. Using it full-strength can cause irritation or burns.
Start with a weaker mix and increase the strength slowly if needed.
Do a patch test on your inner arm before using ACV on your face. Wait 24 hours to check for any bad reactions.
Don’t use ACV on open wounds or very sensitive skin. Stop use if you notice redness, itching, or other signs of irritation.
Avoid getting ACV in your eyes. If this happens, rinse well with water right away.
Apply moisturizer after using ACV to prevent dryness. Use sunscreen during the day, as ACV can make skin more sun-sensitive.
