Did you know that Apple Cider Vinegar (ACV) is the heart of natural skin care with numerous benefits to skin? It has been used historically for skin treatment because of its natural ability to reduce bacteria and detox the skin.

In recent years ACV has become the norm as a home remedy in health care. Thanks to some of the main components, in particular, a bacterial culture called ‘the mother’ which is essential for detox from the inside out. It improves your metabolism, helps in weight management, reduces blood sugar levels, suppresses appetite and improves your cholesterol. Not as well known but ACV has many benefits in skincare as well. It not only gives you brighter and clearer skin but it can actually solve your skin related issues especially if you suffer from acne, oily skin, skin dullness and fine lines.

You can throw out all your skin cleaners, toners and masks because ACV is not only the best skin care but it’s also chemical free, completely natural and an amazing remedy.

If you are trying to fight acne and greasy skin problems: you’re in the right place because we will tell you exactly what, how and when Apple Cider Vinegar is beneficial for your skin. For more information on other uses of ACV you may want to also read 11 Things Apple Cider Vinegar Does For Women

How Is Apple Cider Vinegar Good For Your Skin?

According to the National Eczema Association, the skin has a slightly natural acidic layer, which helps to keep the skin healthy. Using soaps, shampoos and cosmetics can damage this layer and stops it from functioning properly. When this natural layer is damaged, the skin becomes prone to dryness and irritation.

Applying ACV might restore the skin’s acidity, support the barrier and protect the skin. The acetic acid, citric acid and alpha hydroxyl acid (AHA) which has antifungal and antibacterial substances could help clean the skin and prevent infections because they act as natural exfoliators.

Acetic Acid

Acetic acid helps to absorb the excess oil from the skin and eliminates blocked pores. ACV also contains antifungal properties which mean it can treat bacteria such as acne, eczema and skin infections. It can also help balance your pH levels which is discussed in more depth in Benefits of Apple Cider Vinegar for Weight Management,

Citric Acid

Citric acid is proven to fade wrinkles and aging spots. The alpha hydroxyl acid (AHA) like citric acid helps to exfoliate the skin which makes your skin smoother.  It exfoliates the upper level of the dead skin, improves complexion and reverses signs of aging by revealing new skin cells.

What Skin Conditions Can Apple Cider Vinegar Helps To Relieve?

Apple Cider Vinegar can help improve mild skin conditions but keep in mind that the results cannot be seen overnight as with any other skin product. ACV needs to be used effectively in a skin care routine. It can be used as a skin cleanser, exfoliator, for hyper pigmentation, eczema and may also help to treat acne prone areas.

Reduce Scarring

Even if acne heals, it leaves behind discoloration and scarring of skin. Applying ACV directly to the skin has been found to help with scarring. As the term “chemical peeling” is applied, the acids in Apple Cider Vinegar remove the damaged outer layer of the skin and promote skin regeneration. The lactic acid in ACV improves the texture, appearance and pigmentation of the skin.

Exfoliates Skin

The alpha hydroxyl acids (such as citric, lactic and malic acids) in ACV remove dead skin, brighten complexion and soothe the skin. The acetic acid contained in ACV also softens the skin.

Improves Hyper Pigmentation

Hyper pigmentation is a condition when patches of dark brown color appear on your skin. The darkening occurs when excess of melanin is produced and deposits in your skin resulting in dark patches and uneven tone. This occurs in skin mainly due to excess sun exposure and aging factors which cause an increased production of excess melanin.

The compounds of AHA in Apple Cider Vinegar control the production of excess melanin and thus lighten brown spots. Citric acid helps to develop new skin cells, decreases aging spots. ACV can therefore brighten the skin and reduce patchy, uneven skin tone.

Soothes Eczema

Eczema is a breakdown of your skin’s good protection layer, therefore it becomes vulnerable and more exposed to fungus and bacteria which puts you at higher risk of developing skin infections. Since Apple Cider Vinegar contains antifungal and antibacterial components such as acetic acid it may help to prevent these infections.

When Apple Cider Vinegar Is Beneficial For Your Skin

Applying undiluted Apple Cider Vinegar directly to your skin is not recommended and  can be irritating due to its acidic nature. The smell is not something that everyone can bear. Using ACV on the face will not necessarily be as effective for everyone depending on your skin condition and type. If your skin is already damaged then applying it on the face whether directly or diluted can cause more irritation so it is better to consult a dermatologist if you are experiencing any severe skin conditions

ACV To Treat Skin Conditions:

 Acne And Skin Exfoliation

1. Wash your face with a mild face wash.
2. Mix 3 parts water and 1 part Apple Cider Vinegar (for more sensitive skin dilute it with more water).
3. Apple this mixture to the affected area with a cotton ball.
4. Let the mixture sit for 5-20 seconds.
5. Wash your face, and pat it dry.
6. Repeat this process daily.

Pigmentation

1. Mix equal parts of water and Apple Cider Vinegar in a container.
2. Apply to the affected area and leave it on for 2-3 minutes.
3. Cleanse with lukewarm water.
4. Repeat twice a day for effective results.

Eczema

Eczema can be treated in multiple ways with Apple Cider Vinegar depending on the affected area

1. Wet body wrap: Combine 1 cup of warm water with 1 tablespoon of Apple Cider Vinegar. Soak a paper towel or a clean cotton fabric into the mixture and wrap it around the affected area.
2. Warm bath: Add 2 cups of Apple Cider Vinegar in a tub of warm water, soak the body for 15 minutes and then wash it off with some clean cool water.