Can Apple Cider Vinegar Benefit Your Scalp and Hair?

Can Apple Cider Vinegar Benefit Your Scalp and Hair?

You've probably heard the buzz online or on social media: apple cider vinegar (ACV) is a miracle cure for scalp and hair! It's touted as a magic elixir that can do everything from boosting shine to taming frizz. But does it really live up to the hype?

Let's dive in and explore the potential benefits of using ACV for scalp care and hair care, along with some important considerations.

 

Why the ACV Craze?


Apple Cider Vinegar is a natural product made by fermenting apples with live cultures, minerals and acids. Apple Cider Vinegar has a long history of use. It is also a popular home remedy known for its antibacterial, antifungal and antiviral properties.

It's believed to have several properties that could benefit hair, such as:

Balancing Scalp pH: Our hair naturally has a slightly acidic pH. ACV, being acidic itself, may help restore the natural pH balance of your scalp, which can be beneficial for overall scalp health. 

ACV is an acidic liquid containing high amounts of acetic acid, which gives it its strong smell. The natural pH level of hair is between 3.67 and 5.5, which means it’s slightly acidic. Hair that looks dull, brittle, or frizzy tends to be more alkaline pH level 7 or higher. Using an acidic substance, such as ACV, with a pH level below 5.5 may help lower pH and bring hair health back into balance, which may support smoothness, strength, and shine.

 

ACV relieves itchiness

 

Relieving Itchiness: Some people suggest it may relieve an itchy scalp or even strengthen thinning hair.

Gentle Cleansing: ACV can help remove product buildup and impurities from your hair without stripping away natural oils.

 

 

ACV gently cleanses

Potential Anti-fungal Properties: Some studies suggest ACV may have antifungal properties, which could be helpful for conditions like dandruff caused by yeast overgrowth.

However, it is important to point out that scientific studies on the benefits of ACV for scalp and hair health is scarce with mixed results and many results are based on anecdotal evidence.

 



Important Considerations:

While the available information of ACV is promising, it's crucial to remember that research on its specific benefits for hair is limited.

 

ACV Dilution

 

ACV is an acidic substance containing high amounts of acetic acid, which gives it its strong smell and flavor.

Dilution is Key: Never apply undiluted ACV to your scalp or hair. It can be very irritating and even cause burns. Always dilute ACV with water before use.

 

Skin Patch Test is Essential: Before applying ACV to your scalp, perform a patch test on a small area of skin to check for any allergic reactions. Note that signs of an allergic reaction, such as irritation, skin discoloration, small bumps (hives) or itchiness, may only occur after a couple of days.

If you do experience signs of an allergic reaction, discontinue the use of ACV on you hair and consult with your dermatologist or health care professional.

 

How to Use ACV for Hair:

 

Dilute it: Mix 2-3 tablespoons of raw apple cider vinegar with 16 ounces of water in a spray bottle.

Apply after shampooing: After shampooing and conditioning, apply the diluted ACV mixture onto your hair and scalp.

Leave it on: Let it sit for a few minutes [see recommendation above] before rinsing thoroughly with cool water. 

 

Worried about diluting ACV properly?


GIRL+HAIR's Clear+ ACV Rinse is pre-diluted and pH-balanced for your convenience. For a convenient and hassle-free way to experience the benefits of ACV, try our GIRL+HAIR Clear+ Apple Cider Vinegar Rinse. This pre-diluted rinse is formulated to gently clarify your scalp, restore shine, and leave your hair feeling refreshed and revitalized.


Frequently asked questions


Apple Cider Vinegar

Do I use GIRL+HAIR CLEAR+ Apple Cider Vinegar rinse before or after shampoo?

Use the GIRL+HAIR CLEAR+ Apple Cider Vinegar rinse after shampooing your scalp and hair. Shampooing first helps remove dirt and debris on your hair, scalp, and follicles.

How long do I need to soak the scalp and hair in GIRL+HAIR CLEAR+ Apple Cider Vinegar rinse?

There’s no official rule on how long to soak your hair in the apple cider vinegar rinse.
A 2021 study found that rinsing with  vinegar for 20 to 30 minutes may have antimicrobial benefits. However, it’s best to start with short periods of up to 10 minutes to see how your scalp and hair reacts and to prevent any irritation or other side effects.

Is GIRL+HAIR CLEAR+ Apple Cider Vinegar rinse good for frizzy hair?

GIRL+HAIR CLEAR+ Apple Cider Vinegar rinse may help increase the acidity of your hair, which could benefit frizzy hair. However, there’s no scientific study that has examined  the direct effects of apple cider vinegar on frizzy hair.

Can I use GIRL+HAIR CLEAR+ Apple Cider Vinegar rinse for scalp fungus?

Try applying GIRL+HAIR CLEAR+ Apple Cider Vinegar rinse to your scalp twice weekly after shampooing. However, there’s no scientific study that has examined the direct  effects of apple cider vinegar on scalp fungus.

Ready to experience the benefits of ACV for your hair? Shop GIRL+HAIR's Clear+ ACV Rinse today! Try it here.

Important Note: While ACV including GIRL+HAIR’s CLEAR+ Apple Cider Vinegar rinse may offer some benefits for hair, it's not a miracle cure. If you have concerns about scalp health or hair loss, consult a dermatologist for personalized advice.

Disclaimer: This blog post is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before making any significant changes to your hair care routine.


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