If you are a skincare fanatic, you’re sure to have heard of Apple Cider Vinegar or ACV. This only shows how popular this particular kitchen ingredient is, and how many uses it has!
Apple cider vinegar is made by crushing apples and fermenting them with yeast or good bacteria. Through fermentation, acetic acid is created, and this, along with other acids like malic acid and alpha hydroxy acid, gives ACV all its amazing benefits. Curious to know more? Let’s find out what exactly makes ACV a must-have in your daily skincare routine.
Apple Cider Vinegar for Skin – Why do you need it?
1. It heals acne
Acne is one of the biggest skin problems faced by men and women, and it’s not restricted to the teen years. When pores get clogged with bacteria and excess oil, it can result in acne and breakouts. ACV has antimicrobial properties; acetic acid can kill bacteria and help clear up breakouts. The citric acid and AHAs dissolve the build-up in the clogged pores and open them up. Simply put some ACV on a cotton pad and use it as a spot treatment for pimples.
2. It exfoliates
Exfoliation helps get deep into the skin and remove the embedded dirt and impurities along with dead skin cells. Exfoliation can be chemical or physical, and ACV is the former kind. The malic acid removes the outermost layer of dead skin, unclogs the pores, and leaves the skin feeling soft. ACV can also help get rid of blackheads.
3. It tightens pores
Apple cider vinegar is an excellent toner, especially for those with oily skin. Since it is an astringent, it cleanses the skin from within and shrinks the pores, making them too small for bacteria or impurities to get in. Just mix ACV in water in a 1:2 ratio and add a few drops of essential oil for a DIY toner you can use every day.
4. It balances the skin’s pH
Healthy skin has a slightly acidic pH, which ensures it produces the right amount of oil and can keep infections at bay. However, overuse of chemicals-laden products can affect the skin’s pH, cause dryness, and make it prone to infections. ACV has a pH between 2-3, and the pectin and polyphenols in it make it perfect to balance the skin’s pH for glowing skin.
5. It has anti-aging properties
Many reasons can lead to premature signs of aging like wrinkles or fine lines, including excessive dryness, sun exposure, and natural loss of elasticity. ACV helps tighten the skin cells and protects them from pollutants, thus leaving behind youthful skin. What’s more, AHAs help increase the skin cell turnover, which means you’ll always have fresh skin.
6. It heals sunburn
Sunburn can be nasty, and ACV can help in some situations by soothing the pain and hastening the healing process. However, it’s important to use diluted ACV since it can be harsh on sunburnt skin. The best way to use it is to dilute 1 cup of ACV in a bucket of water and use a soft cloth to dip in the solution and apply it to the affected area.
7. It improves hyperpigmentation
Hyperpigmentation is often a result of overproduction of melanin and is visible as patches or dark spots. The malic acid in ACV can decrease the production of melanin, thus controlling the pigmentation from within. Besides that, citric acid has brightening properties, and this can restore your skin’s complexion to its former glory.
8. It helps remove skin tags
Skin tags are small skin growths found on any part of the body, especially in skin folds. Removing skin tags often requires a visit to a clinic, but with ACV, you can get rid of them at home. The acetic acid breaks down the skin tissue around the tags, causing them to fall off. Simply apply some ACV on a cotton ball and attach it to the tag with a bandage. Remove after 15 minutes and repeat for a few days.
When we use chemical skincare products over an extended period, it can affect the skin’s acid mantle and break down its natural defense system. Using ACV regularly can prevent the problems that arise as a result of this.
ACV is suitable for most skin types but is particularly beneficial for oily skin. Avoid using ACV with products containing acids or retinoids. ACV can be irritating and drying to the skin, so always dilute it before use.
If you have skin conditions like psoriasis, eczema, or rosacea, consult your doctor before using ACV, as it may be too harsh for your skin. In any case, always conduct a patch test on your skin, like under the jaw. Stop immediately if you observe any irritation or dryness.
