Apple cider vinegar is adored by almost everyone who is in the skincare game. The reason apple cider vinegar makes the perfect option for your DIY skincare recipe is that it can be found in your kitchen! Well, if you don’t have one, you can always buy it from stores. The purpose of adding apple cider vinegar is to get clear and even-toned skin. Even dermatologists have confirmed the miraculous apple cider vinegar benefits for skin. So, there’s no denying that this stuff is like an elixir. However, that doesn’t mean you have to drench yourself in a pool of apple cider vinegar. Using a little bit is good, but overusing it can be more damaging than benefitting. So, always talk to your dermatologist regarding the usage. With that said, let’s dive deeper into the benefits of apple cider vinegar for skin.
Benefits of Apple Cider Vinegar for Skin
Remember that there is no scientific evidence of the claims people make about apple cider vinegar, but the properties and ingredients can provide skin benefits.
Exfoliates The Skin
Apple cider vinegar contains malic acid. Malic acid is like AHAs or alpha hydroxy acids. Malic gently exfoliates the skin and unclogs the pores. It is also known for stunting the growth of bacteria and is gentle to acne-prone skin.
Reduces Blackheads
As apple cider vinegar has anti-bacterial properties, it can be mixed with baking soda and water and used as a mask to reduce blackheads.
Balances The pH of the Skin
Apple cider vinegar is slightly acidic, but it is an excellent source for balancing the pH level of the outer layer of the skin. As it can balance the level, the skin functions correctly, producing the right amount of oil and kills acne-causing bacteria.
Improves Hyperpigmentation
Malic acid can clear up dark spots or hyperpigmentation. This is because malic acid is known to have the ability to stop the production of melanin. Melanin is responsible for the dark pigmentation that occurs in the skin.
Brightens Up Dull Skin
Not only does the vinegar improve hyperpigmentation, but it gives a face that million-dollar glow! This is because the vinegar consists of some hint of vitamin c in it. Vitamin C boosts the glow of the face and fights off free radicals. Free radicals are responsible for premature aging and fine lines.
How to Use It
Apple cider vinegar is strong and can cause burns. If you have sensitive skin, you should be careful and vigilant about how much to use. Apple cider vinegar should be diluted with water first before applying on to the skin. The general vinegar to water ratio is 1:4, implying that you need to dilute it with four parts of water if you take a part of vinegar. Nowadays, we use a lot of beauty products, and that can disrupt our skin’s defenses. When the disrupt happens, the skin becomes irritated; thus, it causes breakouts, dryness, rashes, etc. Incorporating apple cider vinegar in your skincare routine can help your skin fight the concerns better. Using ACV can reduce acne and remove excess dirt and oil. You can use ACV as a toner or pour a little diluted solution in a homemade face mask, or you can purchase products that contain ACV.
If you use it as a toner, then dilute the ACV as much as possible. Because as you don’t wash off the toner, it will stay on the skin for a long time. A higher concentrated ACV can irritate your skin and strip the natural oils. If you are using it in a mask, apply the mask on a freshly cleaned face, then wait 10-15 minutes before rinsing it with lukewarm water.
