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Apple cider vinegar for hair, why it's good for and how to use it
- sphairastudio
- 11 de jun. de 2024
- 3 min de leitura
Hair care
From helping to strengthen hair, improve shine, reduce hair pH, to treating the scalp, the old-fashioned vinegar rinse lives up to its reputation and is rightly backed up by some scientific studies
A long-standing home trick for shinier hair, vinegar rinses are once again gaining popularity.
By eliminating styling product residues that shampoo can miss, apple cider vinegar can prevent uncomfortable scalp infections and itching. However, it shouldn't be relied on to reduce inflammation or solve diseases or more serious scalp problems.
Everyone's hair is different. Apple cider vinegar rinses may not work for everyone. The best way to find out if it's beneficial for you is to give it a try
Apple cider vinegar is made from fermented apples which contain minerals and probiotics as well as being a natural acidified. In addition to its health benefits, it is also very beneficial for our hair, promoting scalp health and adding shine to the strands.
THE BENEFITS OF APPLE CIDER VINEGAR FOR HAIR
1. Restores your hair's pH balance
Hair is structurally similar to the face and body. The epidermis of the scalp is thicker than that of the face and body, but it has hair bulbs that generously secrete sebum, the hair's natural protective agent. Most hair problems are known to result from an imbalance of sebum and the pH of the scalp.
The acidity of apple cider vinegar balances the natural pH of the scalp. (2014 study) Both, in proper balance, nourish the hair bulb for thicker, healthier hair
2. Disinfectant
Apple cider vinegar is also a popular disinfectant that controls fungi and bacteria.
The acidic properties act with antimicrobial benefits helping to decrease the amount of bacteria and yeasts on the scalp and hair, which can translate into fewer scalp problems, ( 2003 study)
3. Removes buildup
Vinegar rinses are perfect for dry shampoo lovers whose hair needs a deep clean by the end of the week
4. Dandruff control
Although studies are needed to prove its effects, there are many reports and popular traditions that advocate the use of vinegar to combat dandruff, and the University of California itself recommends its use to control dandruff.
5. More shine, less frizz
Our hair is made up of cuticles that can open or be naturally more open. These are called porous hair and are prone to frizz and dullness. Acidity closes the cuticle, resulting in shinier, frizz-free hair.
The balanced pH also helps to close the cuticles, promoting low porosity. This is exactly what increases the shine of the hair
6. Conditioner replacement
Rinsing with vinegar is good for those who are looking for shine and can't get it with a heavy conditioner. This works well for fine hair and also helps to lower the porosity of porous hair by helping it to retain moisture better.
Which vinegar to buy
If you want to take advantage of all the probiotic benefits of apple cider vinegar, prefer unfiltered vinegars, which come with that cloudy appearance, as these contain the minerals and good bacteria.
If your idea is just to use its acidity benefits, filtered apple cider vinegar will do the trick.
Not for super light blondes
Which hair types should not be rinsed with vinegar? Platinum blonde hair. Platinum blonde hair has a totally different hair follicle and, due to its translucency and color, it's a risk to use any product that can give it color
How often should you use it?
The recommended use of vinegar rinses is twice a week. But every hair is different, so it's best to observe how your hair is reacting. Maybe once a week is enough.
How to use
To treat hair
Mix 2 to 4 tablespoons of apple cider vinegar with 1/2 liter of water.
After shampooing and conditioning, pour the mixture evenly over the hair, working into the scalp.
Leave it on for a few minutes.
Rinse.
To treat dandruff
Califórnia university recommends:
Combine 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar with 1 1/2 cups cold water.
Wash and rinse your hair as normal.
Pour the water and vinegar mixture into your hair.
Do not rinse your hair again.
Use conditioner if necessary.
Care
Start little by little, up to the ideal amount for your hair. Always mix with water, remember that it contains acetic acid, which can irritate your skin.
If you feel any irritation, stop using immediately. Avoid exposure to the sun when using it more strongly, as is the case with treating dandruff.
