Apple cider vinegar

Apple cider vinegar is basically apple juice and adding yeast turns the sugar in the juice into alcohol. This process is called fermentation. Bacteria break down the alcohol into acetic acid. It is also rich in vitamin A and vitamin C.

Apple cider vinegar is commonly used in salad dressing and cooking. Additionally, it is also having excellent health benefits. It assists in lowering blood sugar levels in people affected with diabetes. It is also used for obesity, athletic performance, kidney stones etc.

Since apple cider vinegar is highly acidic, drinking vinegar straight is not recommended. It can cause problems like erosion of enamel.

Benefits of apple cider vinegar for hair

Reduces frizziness of hair: Apple cider vinegar contains acetic acid which assists in restoring shine to hair and reduces dryness making it less frizzy. The main cause for frizzy and brittle hair is because of high alkaline content in it. Hence, the acid content in apple cider vinegar restores the natural balance.
Treats itchiness and scalp infections: The antimicrobial qualities of apple cider vinegar make it effective against fungi and bacteria that cause scalp infections. Regular use of apple cider vinegar for hair wash can help heal scalp and make it itch-free.
Reduces dandruff: Apple cider vinegar is rich in alpha-hydroxy acid and acts as an exfoliating agent which cleans up the scalp and reduces dandruff.
Makes healthy and strong: Apple cider vinegar works wonders for hair because it is rich in several vitamins and minerals that nourish the hair leaving it shiny and healthy.

How to use apple cider vinegar for hair?

Regular use of shampoos, conditioners and other chemical hair products could cause extreme product build-up. Using apple cider vinegar helps in cleaning the scalp completely and adds shine to the hair.

Some ways to incorporate apple cider vinegar in your hair care routine are:

Using apple cider vinegar as hair rinse

Mix apple cider vinegar in equal proportions and pour on the hair after the process of shampoo and conditioner is completed. Leave the hair this way for a couple of minutes and then rinse it off. If a person is affected with sensitive scalp, add more water than vinegar. Essential oils can be added to the mix if you do not want your hair to have a vinegary smell.

Using apple cider vinegar as detangling agent

Tangled hair leads to most hair fall. This budget product could resolve the tangled mess. To use the benefits of this, mix apple cider vinegar and water in one-to-one ratio and pour it into a spray bottle. Before the combing process is started, spray the mix into the hair.

Using apple cider vinegar to make hair shiny

One of the common problems we all face with hair care products is that they tend to become ineffective after repeated use. One of the reasons for this is, product build up clogs hair follicles. As a result, hair starts to look dull and lifeless. To overcome this apple cider vinegar can be used. In a large cup of water add two tablespoons of apple cider vinegar and rinse hair after shampoo. Rinse off again using cold water and apply a mild conditioner to the ends of hair strands.

Using apple cider vinegar to treat dandruff

Home remedies for treating dandruff often miss out mentioning apple cider vinegar. But, apple cider vinegar is an all-rounder, and is an effective home remedy for dandruff. Dilute apple cider vinegar with water and massage your scalp. Let it stay for a few minutes and then wash off with cold water. Repeat on a weekly basis or twice a week if you have a severe dandruff problem. This works because the acidic nature of vinegar acts against fungus Malassezia which causes dandruff.

Homemade masks using apple cider vinegar for hair

Deep conditioning hair mask

For preparing this mask you require:

1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
4 tablespoons water
3 tablespoons honey
1 tablespoon olive oil

Mix all the ingredients in a bowl and whisk until smooth. Apply to the scalp and strands using fingers and leave it on for 10-15 minutes. Then, wash hair generously with water. Do not apply shampoo after the mask is rinsed off.

Hair growth mask

For preparing this mask you require:

1.4 tablespoons apple cider vinegar

2 tablespoon coconut oil (increase the amount for dry hair and reduce for oily hair)
3 tablespoon water

Mix the ingredients and apply on your hair. Leave it on for 10 minutes and rinse off with water.

Mask for damaged hair

For preparing this mask you require:

½ teaspoon apple cider vinegar
2 tablespoons yogurt

Mix the ingredients and thoroughly apply on the scalp. Let it dry for about 30 minutes and rinse with lukewarm water. This should be done at least twice a week for optimum results.

4. Mask for hair length

For preparing this mask you require:

1 egg white
½ teaspoon apple cider vinegar

Mix the egg white and apple cider vinegar in a bowl and apply evenly on your scalp. Leave it in for 40-45 minutes and wash off with regular shampoo and cold water. Continue using regularly once a week to get long hair.

Take Away

Science supports the use of apple cider vinegar as a hair rinse. It could help strengthen hair and improve luster by lowering hair and scalp pH. It may also keep pesky scalp infections and itchiness at bay. However, it shouldn’t be relied on to reduce inflammation or solve diseases or issues of the scalp, like dandruff. Everyone’s hair is different. Apple cider vinegar rinses may not work for everyone. The best way to know if it’s beneficial for you is to bring it into your hair care routine, and see if it works for you personally.