Game World!: can apple cider vinegar help with hair growth?

HOW TO USE APPLE CIDER VINEGAR FOR HAIR GROWTH.

Do you rinse vinegar out of your hair?

Although some companies claim that we only recommend an ACV rinse to "fix" the damage done by a soap-based shampoo bar, that's simply not true. An apple cider vinegar-based rinse can help restore life to your hair and scalp no matter what type of shampoo products you use.

While it is true that these rinses are especially helpful for those new to shampoo bars, an Apple Cider Vinegar (ACV) hair rinse is a great addition to any hair care regimen.

Raw apple cider vinegar (ACV), packed with nutrients, can help with tangles and frizzy hair, bring back body and shine, decrease residue and clarify, stimulate the scalp, decrease dandruff, and unclog hair follicles which may help with excess shedding or hair loss.

The use of vinegar with a variety of plants, herbs, and essential oils for cosmetic purposes can be traced back to the Romans and was fashionable during the nineteenth century as "vinegar de toilette."

Hair can become dull and limp due to the buildup of residue from shampoo, conditioner, and other hair styling products.

Raw apple cider vinegar (ACV) is packed with nutrients and can . . .Organic Raw Apple Cider Vinegar Rinse

help with tangles and frizzy hair

bring back body and shine

decrease residue

clarify, stimulate the scalp

decrease dandruff

unclog hair follicles which may help with excess shedding or hair loss

be especially helpful for those new to natural shampoo bars

Organic Apple Cider Vinegar Hair Rinse

While a simple ACV rinse is easy to make and we have included many recipes below, many of our customers with their very busy lives have asked us to add them to our product line.

We infuse our organic apple cider vinegar rinses with certified organic herbs and organic essential oils that are great for the hair and scalp.

So you can CLICK HERE to purchase Chagrin Valley’s certified organic Apple Cider Vinegar Rinses or continue reading to learn more and create your own.

Why Apple Cider Vinegar?

Organic Apple Cider Vinegar RinsesAlthough plain white vinegar may work, Apple Cider Vinegar seems to be the favorite hair care vinegar. Some say that wine vinegar may be less drying for those with dry scalp conditions.

The process for making apple cider vinegar begins with the juice of fresh apples. Bacteria and yeast added to the juice begin the fermentation process which breaks down fructose, the naturally occurring fruit sugar, into alcohol. The alcohol is converted to vinegar (which means “sour wine” in French) by acetic acid-forming bacteria.

The natural raw non-pasteurized vinegar is packed with nutrients. It appears cloudy with stringy stuff and sediment on the bottom due to the "mother" which contains the natural bacteria and enzymes that make this product so wonderful.

I recommend and use raw apple cider vinegar with "mother." The difference between raw apple cider vinegar and commercial clear vinegar is that the commercial vinegar is heated, distilled, and clarified. This processing removes much of the naturally occurring bacteria, nutrients, and living enzymes, thus stripping away the natural benefits.

How To Make & Use Vinegar Rinses

Simple Vinegar Rinse Recipe

Mix 1/2 to 4 tablespoons of apple cider vinegar (ACV) with 8 ounces of water in a plastic squeeze bottle, spray Apple Cider Vinegar Hair Rinsebottle or other containers

Experiment to find a dilution that works best for your hair type (dry hair likes less ACV and oily hair likes more).

If you want some variation, create a vinegar rinse tailored to your hair by adding herbs and/or natural essential oils. I have included an herb and vinegar rinse and an essential oil vinegar rinse that I use below.

How Do I Use The Vinegar Hair Rinse?

After shampooing apply the vinegar rinse. Pour, squirt or spray the rinse onto wet hair. Massage into hair and scalp and pay special attention to the ends. Let sit for a couple of minutes.

Now you have a few choices. You may rinse it all out if you want, or leave the rinse on your hair. I rinse a little--one quick spray of water. Leaving the vinegar rinse on your hair helps prevent tangles in long hair. Since the vinegar restores natural pH it also helps prevent an itchy scalp. As your hair is drying you will smell vinegar, but once your hair dries, no smell. I was skeptical at first--but this really works!

How Often Can I Use The Vinegar Hair Rinse?

Since everyone's hair is unique you should use your own judgment on this. You will need to experiment to find a dilution that works best for your hair type. Remember--dry hair likes less vinegar and oily hair likes more.

Some say that vinegar rinses may be drying if used every day and it is best to restrict use to two times per week. I used a vinegar rinse every other day for the first few weeks when I switched to natural shampoo bars--until my hair adjusted to the new shampoo--now once or twice a month keeps my hair healthy and shiny. Many customers have found this regimen to work, but do some experimenting!

Some Helpful Hints

Organic Apple Cider Vinegar Hair RinseWhile you can use any container to make your vinegar rinse, I like a plastic squirt top bottle.

It is easier to squirt it all over my scalp and then massage it through, rather than pouring it all over my head from a cup. Recycle any clean plastic bottle with a squirt top.

Pouring a cold rinse on your hair may be a more invigorating experience than you would like. (Although if you're feeling brave, the cold water will give your hair added shine.)

If you would like a warmer rinse, make it just before you step in the shower using very warm tap water.

More Vinegar Rinse Recipes

Herbs & Vinegar Hair RinseApple Cider Vinegar Rinses With Herbs

Rinsing your hair with vinegar after shampooing leaves it shining. Certain herbs can highlight or enhance your hair color, as well as condition it. For example:

rosemary and parsley are good for dark hair

sage may help darken graying hair

chamomile, mullein, and marigold can highlight blonde or light brown hair

calendula conditions

lavender, thyme, witch hazel, and yarrow will help with oily hair

lavender and lemon verbena add fragrance

linden is good for frequently shampooed hair

nettles will control dandruff

horsetails help with brittleness

These rinses are made from the herbs themselves, not essential oils. You can use either fresh or dried herbs.Organic Hair Tea Rinses If you have a rosemary bush handy, use a sprig or two-- each about 5 inches long. For dried rosemary use about a tablespoon. Rosemary is one of the best herbs for hair.

Fresh lavender is also nice to use. Most of the herbs you can grow in your garden will probably be useful in some way or another.

Fresh herbs are wonderful to use, but remember to rinse them if they have been sprayed with anything. Cut fresh herbs in the morning after the dew has dried. Just note that the water content in fresh herbs may cause problems with mold growth even in vinegar.

If using dried herbs, you can use them either loose, tied up in cheesecloth or muslin fabric, or in tea bag form (like one chamomile tea bag). If using loose herbs, you will need to strain your "tea" prior to use (I use a coffee filter)--you don't want to have bits of herb caught in your hair afterward!

Note: If you using dried herbs or botanicals to make a concentrated herbal-infused vinegar (no water yet) I find that I get a better extraction if I gently warm the vinegar (just a little) first.

Although there is no need to sterilize equipment, since this is not going to be a food product, clean all equipment thoroughly before starting. Wash in hot, soapy water and rinse well in hot water.

Herbs & Vinegar Hair Rinse Recipe #1: Quick Recipe For One Application

Ingredients:Natural Herbal Vinegar Rinse

2 to 4 Tablespoons of apple cider vinegar

herbs of choice**

2 cups boiling water

**See our "Hair Care Herbs" page.

Directions:

Boil the water only in a small saucepan.

Add the herbs. Cover and allow the "tea" to steep for at least 15 minutes. If you want a stronger herbal infusion, add more herbs, cover, and simmer on the stove for 15 minutes. Then turn off the heat and allow to steep for 30 minutes.

Allow your infusion to cool. Then add the vinegar.

It should be used that day or refrigerated for later use. You may also double or triple the recipe. Just be sure to refrigerate the unused portion.

When you have finished rinsing the shampoo out of your hair, pour the rinse on your hair and massage your scalp. If you have very long hair, as I do, you can dip your hair into the jug before pouring its contents over your head. Make sure the temperature of your rinse is just right for you

Avoid getting the rinse in your eyes, particularly if you have used essential oils.

Rinse it out with clean water or, for extra conditioning benefits, just leave it in and towel dry your hair. The vinegar scent will disappear as your hair dries.

Make sure you rinse out the shower afterward, as some herbs can leave it looking slightly tea-stained; similarly, watch out for your towels. The staining is only temporary and washes out very easily; it is more likely to occur with extra strong infusions.

Herb & Vinegar Hair Rinse Recipe #2: Recipe For Larger Batch Concentrate

Ingredients:

2 cups of apple cider vinegar

1 cup chopped herbs of choice**

Directions:

Place approximately 1 cup of chopped herbs in a glass jar.

Cover with 2 cups of vinegar.

"Steep" this mixture in a tightly closed jar or bottle in the refrigerator or in a dark, cool place for two weeks.

Strain steeped vinegar from herbs through cheesecloth or a coffee filter into a fresh, clean bottle.

The infused vinegar (without water) will keep for 6 months to a year if made with dried herbs and stored properly in a cool and dry area. (I always leave about a week's worth in my shower!)

Tip: If you don't want to wait two weeks, speed up infusion by gently heating the vinegar before pouring over herbs. "Steep" for a few days! Be aware that if you are using natural raw non-pasteurized apple cider vinegar heating may kill natural enzymes and reduce its natural health benefits.

When ready to use: dilute 1 to 2 tablespoon of the herbal vinegar in 1 cup of water. Rinse through wet hair after shampooing. Rinse it out with fresh water or, for extra conditioning benefits, just leave it in and towel dry your hair. The vinegar scent will disappear as your hair dries.

**Visit our "Herbs For Hair Care" page to help find herbs for your hair type.

Essential Oil & Vinegar Hair Rinse

There are many wonderful essential oils for hair care. Essential oils can be diluted in water, vinegar or added to an herbal vinegar recipe shown above.

Hair Growth Using Apple Cider Vinegar

Some words of CAUTION:

Essential oils are very strong and many can be skin irritants if not used correctly. Lavender is one of the very few essential oils that can be used directly on the skin, others will irritate the skin if used at full strength.

Some essential oils are stronger than others. You must be knowledgeable about the amount of essential oil to use in your dilution.

Essential oils are expensive. But do NOT use the cheaper fragrance oils or "nature identical" oils. These are synthetic, can cause skin irritation and provide none of the benefits of natural botanical essential oils.

Essential Oil & Vinegar Hair Rinse Recipe

Ingredients:

2 cups of apple cider vinegar (herb-infused or plain)

5 to 10 drops of essential oil**

Directions:

Mix vinegar and essential oils.

This mixture should be stored in a glass bottle since the essential oils may react with plastic.

The mixture can be used right away, but if you allow it to sit for a day or two the "flavors" will blend.

When ready to use: dilute 1 to 2 tablespoon of the vinegar/essential oil mixture in 1 cup of water.

Rinse through wet hair after shampooing. Rinse it out with fresh water or, for extra conditioning benefits, just leave it in and towel dry your hair.

**Visit our information on Essential Oils for Hair Care for more recipes using essential oils

Tags: Skin Care Recipes, ACV Rinse, Shampoo Bar

Is apple cider vinegar good for 4c hair?

When I first heard of Apple Cider Vinegar(ACV) as a 4C hair rinse, I was in disbelief. This triggered my curiosity and hence why I decided to do a bit of research before using it on my natural 4C hair. In this article I share what I found out.

Here is what I will cover:

Contents

Apple Cider Vinegar for 4C Hair Growth?

Why Apple Cider Vinegar on 4C hair?

Benefits of Apple Cider Vinegar on 4C hair

How to use Apple Cider Vinegar

Caution when using Apple Cider Vinegar

The last thing you need to know about Apple Cider Vinegar.

Apple Cider Vinegar for 4C Hair Growth?

Apple Cider Vinegar can be used as a hair wash to improve scalp health, strengthen hair and also to enhance shine.

Apple Cider Vinegar is made in a two-step fermentation process. The fermentation process enriches the solution with live cultures, minerals and acids.

In the first step, apples that have been cut up are exposed to yeast which ferments the sugars in the apples turning them into alcohol.

The second step involves adding bacteria to the alcohol solution. This further ferments the alcohol turning it into Acetic acid. Acetic acid is the main active compound in vinegar. The presence of acetic acid gives the final product a sour taste.

ACV is found in many local stores but if you would like to learn how to make ACV at home, here are links to two Youtubers that I think have done a good job in explaining the process:

How to make Apple Cider Vinegar at home – Green Beauty

How to make Apple Cider Vinegar – Presteaders

Why Apple Cider Vinegar on 4C hair?

The main reason why ACV is used in hair is because of its acidic nature. To understand the relationship between your hair and ACV, here is some explanation.

Human hair has a slightly acidic PH. The PH ranges from 4.0-5.0. The acidic nature of hair and scalp keeps the cuticles closed and healthy and works to protects it from bacteria and fungus.

Below the skin are the sebaceous glands which secrete sebum through the hair follicle. The sebum, which is acidic in PH, lubricates the hair and scalp, this works to maintain and protect the hair and scalp.

The acidic nature of hair also makes the hair cuticles scales lie flat which give hair a shiny, smooth appearance hence protecting the hair from moisture loss. Shampoos, because of their cleaning agents, are alkaline in nature, this is why after shampooing, your hair may feel dry and brittle. This is why conditioners are used! Conditioners are acidic in nature and thus restore the hair PH to its natural state. Here is an article to help you understand the purpose of conditioners on your 4C hair.

When the hair PH level is tampered with, the hair strands swell and the cuticle scales open causing breakage. This result in frizzy, brittle hair, which makes the hair dry, hence dull appearance due to light absorption.

Even the most ‘natural of naturals’ run to the stores to get hair products for days when they have run out of homemade products or simply need to try something different. Some of these store bought products tamper with the natural hair PH and thus why Apple Cider Vinegar is used as an alternative to balance the hair PH.

Benefits of Apple Cider Vinegar on 4C hair

1 – Balances the PH of hair

Apple Cider Vinegar is acidic in nature and hence when applied to hair, it helps lower the PH of your hair, if your hair waived off to a more alkaline PH. ACV contains a good amount of acetic acid which helps in balancing the alkalinity. Hair that is alkaline is dull, brittle or fizzy. This is the reason why after using some shampoos (alkaline in PH) on your hair, you need to restore the PH back to normal, which should be at slightly acidic(4.0-5.0).

**Caution- always ensure ACV is diluted before using it in your hair because it is very acidic. You can do this by diluting with water.

2 – Scalp health

ACV restores the hair’s PH to slightly acidic which is great to keep of bacteria and fungus that causes dandruff away from the scalp. Due to its anti-inflammatory nature, ACV can counteract skin inflammation that typically occurs in dry and flaky scalp.

3 – Removes build up from your hair

ACV contains alpha-hydroxyl which helps in exfoliating the scalp and hair allowing removal of dead skin cells and sweat build up which improves hair appearance, reduces itchiness and allows for better styling.

4 – Conditions the hair

Apple Cider Vinegar can be used as a conditioner to soften hair and restore moisture to your hair.

5 – Increases shine and minimizes tangling

Using ACV stabilizes the hair PH which leads to flattening of the cuticles which results in shiny hair that is less prone to tangling or snagging hair.

6 – Promotes hair growth

Because of the above mentioned benefits: Scalp health, removing build-up from the scalp and conditioning hair. The hair has the optimum conditions to thrive and grow.

How to use Apple Cider Vinegar

Here are some suggestions on how to use ACV on your hair.

ACV can be used as a pre-final rinse especially when the shampooing process has left your hair dry and frizzy.

Mix the ¼ cup ACV with 1 cup water and put aside. (I found this quantities to work best for my hair, you can vary the quantities depending on your hair volume and condition)

Wash your hair with a gentle shampoo.

Condition your hair and rinse thoughrouly, then pour the vinegar mixture on your hair evenly, massaging your scalp, let it sit for 15-20minutes.

Rinse it out with warm water.

You can mix a few drops of essential oil like lavender oil, olive oil, jojoba oil or coconut oil into the mixture if the acidic smell is too strong.

Again because all our hairs are different, with experimentation, should be able to determine the frequency to use the ACV. I personally use it once a month

ACV can be used as natural hair conditioner when mixed with a store bought conditioner to give it an extra boost. This will leave the hair smooth and shiny.

ACV can also be used as herbal hair rinse by mixing various herbs like rosemary, chamomile, henna, and lavender among others.

Caution when using Apple Cider Vinegar

ACV is known to contain acetic acid which may irritate or burn the skin. Always dilute ACV with water before directly applying to your scalp. Avoid contacts with eyes and incase of irritation during rinse, reduce the amount during the mix.

Always consult a skin or hair specialist whenever in doubt. The information I share is my opinion, supported with research from authorities in the subject and my personal experiences in using Apple Cider Vinegar.

The last thing you need to know about Apple Cider Vinegar.

ACV helps balance PH due to high acetic acid substance on the vinegar. Increasing acidity by promotes smoothness, strengthens and adds shine to hair. A study on hair shampoo done by (Trichology ,2017 A 2014 study) found that high alkalinity can contribute to hair breakage and dryness. The research goes on to argue that most hair care products don’t actually address the hair PH and that most shampoos are always alkaline.

I hope the information I have shared will help you make a decision on whether to include ACV in your hair care routine or not.

Feel free to share this information to your networks using the share buttons below and let me know of your experience with Apple Cider Vinegar in the comments below.

I’ve used apple cider vinegar (ACV) for a long time. I drink a tablespoon of it before eating, to help with digestion. But when a fellow alopecian told me how much an apple cider vinegar rinse helped her thinning hair, I wondered: Could I use apple cider vinegar for hair loss, too?

So I started researching the benefits of ACV – and I saw how many people use it as an all-natural health supplement. That’s right, apple cider vinegar pills exist, too! And whether you decide to drink it, pop a pill or use a DIY apple cider vinegar rinse to clean your hair and scalp, ACV has proven benefits for hair growth.

Coming up:

How Apple Cider Vinegar Helps Hair

Other Health Benefits: More reasons to include ACV in your diet

How to use Apple Cider Vinegar for hair growth

Side Effects of Apple Cider Vinegar

Emma’s ‘not a doctor’ disclaimer

Hi there, I’m an alopecian, I’m not a doctor! Any advice I give is based on my own research and personal experiences. This site is however reader-supported. When you buy through external links, I may earn a tiny affiliate commission. Learn more here.

My Top Choices: Best ACV Liquid and Supplement

VitaPost

ACV

Pure

Check it out

Bragg Organic Apple Cider Vinegar

Check it out

Goli

Nutrition Gummies

Check it out

Introduction: What is Apple Cider Vinegar?

Science bit: When you press a bunch of apples and let them ferment naturally, you get apple cider vinegar – well, almost! You also need yeast, to convert these natural sugars into alcohol. Then, in the final stage, you add “acetobacter” (bacteria) to the alcohol – which creates acetic acid, the key nutritional component in ACV.

ACV isn’t ultra-filtered – so the good parts of the apple stay present. It contains B vitamins and polyphenols (plant-based antioxidants) plus proteins, essential enzymes and the kind of friendly bacteria that’s SO good for your gut…and your overall health!

That’s why unpasteurized, non-filtered (i.e. pure) apple cider vinegar has a murky color – it proves its high probiotic content.

LA Says: When buying ACV liquid, get a brand that contains “the mother”. That’s the layer of yeast and acetic acid bacteria which forms naturally during the fermentation process. Like a scoby in kombucha, although a scoby includes lactic acid, too.

Apple Cider Vinegar for Hair Loss: How it Works

ACV has been used therapeutically and medically for a looong time. And in a moment, I’ll share a few of these uses: like lowering weight, blood sugar and cholesterol levels in the body.

But first, check out 4 ways in which a daily dose of apple cider vinegar can help hair loss.

1. Lowers pH Levels

If your hair is too alkaline, this may “increase negative electrical charge of the hair fiber surface.” Which can result in cuticle damage, causing your hair to become dry, brittle and prone to snapping.

Meanwhile, the high acidity levels of ACV help restore and maintain your natural pH balance. The result? Hair that’s smooth, strong and shiny.

How it helps hair: Lowering hair and scalp pH is a major benefit of using ACV for hair loss but please note: – we’re all different. If you already have quite a dry scalp (ie it’s not oily), using ACV topically might actually be too strong.

How to do a Apple Cider Vinegar Rinse

apple cider for hair loss

2. Treats Scalp Conditions: Dandruff & Fungal

If you suffer from scalp issues like dandruff, seborrheic dermatitis, psoriasis or a dry scalp, apple cider vinegar cleans your scalp and restores it to health.

It’s all down to that lovely acetic acid and its antimicrobial properties – which lowers “oxidative stress” in the body, a common trigger in the above scalp conditions and in all forms of hair loss, particularly androgenetic alopecia (male pattern baldness) and alopecia areata.

Plus, when you’re under oxidative stress, you either don’t have enough antioxidants or you have too many free radicals attacking your immune system. Which is something we alopecians want to avoid, big time.

How it helps hair: To prevent this autoimmune response, we need to up our intake of antioxidants. Luckily, apple cider vinegar has plenty of antioxidants to reduce oxidative stress. Which at the same time, wards off bacteria to keep pesky scalp infections, irritation and scalp itchiness at bay.

3. Reduces Scalp Build-Up & Excess Sebum

That apple cider vinegar hair loss study shows how ACV lowers oxidative stress in the body and maintains an optimal pH level. But what if you’ve got oily build-up or the bacteria known as yeast…which can cause conditions like folliculitis?

Well, an apple cider vinegar rinse doesn’t just leave your hair soft ‘n’ shiny. It also deep cleans the scalp to rid it of excess sebum, oil and dirt that can clog hair follicles and cause these issues. Sometimes oily build-up is a result of other hair care or styling products; often it’s down to your environment (pollution, traffic etc).

How it helps hair: ACV removes this nasty build-up and lowers levels of yeast on the scalp that can cause inflammation and flaking. This means your follicles and hair fibres can breathe again and have more space to grow. ACV is therefore a non-toxic, natural antibacterial cleaning agent.

4. Improves Digestion

Probiotics are friendly bacteria, which promote a healthy digestive tract and boost your immune system. (If you’ve ever used antibiotics, you may have used probiotic supplements afterwards to restore the friendly bacteria in your gut.)

With its high probiotic content, ACV is a natural way to “heal your gut” from any issues you may be experiencing. It’s also acidic and for those with low stomach acidity (or sluggish bowels, or conditions like IBS), ACV can raise these levels to get things moving along. Phew.

Finally, since ACV is antimicrobial, it helps kill bad bacteria in the stomach and intestines. (FYI: too much bad bacteria =severe bloating. Bleurgh.)

Lots of anecdotal evidence (including my own!) supports apple cider vinegar as a digestive aid. Some people dilute it in water with meals to relieve post-food “heaviness”; I have a tablespoonful of it 10 minutes before meals as my Functional Medicine doctor advised. The scientific evidence is limited, though – and many articles warn to consult your doctor before “self-medicating” with the liquid.

How it helps hair: Hair loss is often linked to gut microbiome issues – which is true in my case. So if you can improve your digestion and boost your immune system with apple cider vinegar, it should have a positive impact on hair growth, too!

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4 More Health Benefits of Apple Cider Vinegar

Like many natural remedies and health supplements, the evidence supporting apple cider vinegar is mainly anecdotal. Which can lead to a lot of spurious claims – it’s hard to know what to believe. Plus, ACV comes with a couple of caveats and contraindications, which I’ll get to soon.

Still there have been small studies into the overall health benefits of unfiltered apple cider vinegar.

1. Reduces Blood Sugar

Several studies show ACV can control blood sugar, lower insulin levels, even manage diabetes. Plus, acetic acid in vinegar leads to lower blood sugar levels than acetic acid in other forms.

While research is limited and focuses largely on animal studies, apple cider vinegar does lower oxidative stress – which is linked to Type 2 diabetes and, as we’ve seen, hair loss.

2. Weight Loss

Ok, so there’s not a lot of evidence behind this claim – but one or two studies back it up. The theory is that acetic acid improves our metabolism to prevent fatty deposits.

In this study, ACV does seem to work for weight loss – those tested experienced a drop in body weight, BMI, visceral fat and even waist circumference after 12 weeks of consuming ACV daily.

3. Improve Heart Health

Apple cider vinegar also lowers triglyceride levels and cholesterol, – both of which are linked to heart disease. So maybe an apple a day can keep the doctor away!

4. Increased Energy / Immunity

Ever heard “healthy gut = happy brain?” Well, it’s true – and the gut-brain connection is getting more and more attention these days. When my own digestion is sluggish, I have the brain fog and the irritability to go with it! 😉

But since starting my autoimmune diet and making a few lifestyle changes I’ve noticed a BIG difference in my energy levels, my mood and my immune system, too! I feel better in myself, more positive. A lot of that’s down to diet and exercise – but I supplement these things with my daily dose of ACV!

How to Use Apple Cider Vinegar for Hair Growth

There are two different types of ACV for hair loss: Apple cider vinegar itself, in liquid form…or apple cider vinegar pills. Both come with different benefits and depend on what you’re looking for.

In this section, I’ll explain:

3 ways to get your daily dose of ACV

Liquid vs Supplement: Which is better?

My top brands and products

Option 1: Use an Apple Cider Vinegar Rinse

This is a quick ‘n’ simple way to use ACV for hair growth – although be warned, it smells strong! 😉

What to do:

Mix 2 tablespoons of apple cider vinegar with 100ml cool water.

After shampooing and conditioning, pour the ACV/water solution over your hair, massaging into your scalp.

Leave it in for a few minutes.

Rinse your hair again.

Modifications:

Substitute water for coconut oil, for an extra-moisturizing rinse – but if you have oily hair anyway, stick to water!

Make your own apple cider vinegar shampoo by adding 3-4 tablespoons to your favorite natural product.

Mix the above ACV rinse with 1 tsp of baking soda to remove nasty chemicals from your hair and gently exfoliate the scalp. No need for a commercial shampoo afterwards and you can make your DIY cleanser smell yummy with a few drops of essential oil.

Option 2: Drink a Tablespoon of ACV Before Meals

This is the one I do, which my FM doctor recommended to help digestion. However, some research warns against drinking too much of the straight stuff – it could damage your tooth enamel, even your esophagus! Yikes.

So you might want to dilute ACV in water OR add it to your diet in one of the following ways:

Make ACV tea: Mix 1 tbs of organic apple cider vinegar with 1 teaspoon of lemon juice to aid digestion. Add boiling water and if it tastes too sharp, sweeten with a little honey.

Mix it into your favourite smoothie: Try 1 tbs of ACV, 1 frozen banana, 1 tsp of fresh or powdered turmeric for extra immune-boosting properties and a cup of your favourite non-dairy milk. Add extra sweetness with a few dates. Yum!

Make a simple salad dressing: Mix equal parts of apple cider vinegar and olive oil, add a squeeze of time, a dash of black pepper and you’re good to go!

Drink it in a shot: For a way that’s kinder on your teeth, try an on-the-go shot of AVC (this one contains the mother) with turmeric and honey. Yum!

Try it in a pickle: Fermented foods are amazing for gut health – even more so if you swap the traditional white or rice vinegar (used in the pickling process) with apple cider vinegar instead. Here’s a big ol’ bottle for pickling in bulk. 😉

Option 3: Stock up on Apple Cider Vinegar Supplements!

This is a great option if you don’t like the taste of apple cider vinegar, or if you want to protect your teeth. It’s made of the same stuff but the vinegar is dehydrated into either tablet or capsule form. So you should get all the health benefits I’ve mentioned from drinking ACV – without burning through your esophagus. 😉

If you do decide to take apple cider vinegar pills, there are plenty of options out there. But I recommend this product by VitaPost because I’ve read great things about their turmeric capsules, their ginger tablets – and about these ACV vegetarian capsules, too!

Recommended use: 2 capsules daily, with food.

check them out

Apple cider for hair

Apple Cider Vinegar Pills Vs Liquid

Admittedly, this is a new area for me. Until recently, I’d only ever heard of ACV in liquid form. I didn’t know capsules were an option! But from what I’m reading, taking apple cider vinegar as a supplement has plenty of benefits – you get all that antioxidant, digestion-boosting action without the strong taste or fear of damaging your teeth.

And while I use liquid ACV in the shower to rinse my hair, I’m not as consistent with drinking it for my gut issues. I’ll remember to take my tablespoon of ACV liquid faithfully for, oh about 3 days. Then I forget.

Plus, if I’m out for a meal with friends, it’s unlikely that I’ll carry a bottle of ACV with me! A small bottle of pills is far more portable.

Disclaimer: Be aware, these pills aren’t for everyone. Like if you’re pregnant, breastfeeding or have an underlying health condition (as well as alopecia), it might be a good idea to check with your doctor.

Best Apple Cider Vinegar Liquid

1) Jarrow Formulas Organic Apple Cider Vinegar

I love Jarrow Formulas. I already take their SAM-e and 5HTP supplements daily (as my FM doctor advised, for anxiety) and although I haven’t actually tried their apple cider vinegar yet, I can 100% vouch for this brand.

Their version is unpasteurized and unfiltered, with a nice ‘n’ murky colour and without any preservatives or additives. It also contains “the mother” – oh, and it’s really good value!

The Lady Recommends...

Jarrow Formulas Organic Apple Cider Vinegar

take a peek

2) Bragg Organic Apple Cider Vinegar

This is the apple cider vinegar I’ve used in recipes and drank as a digestive aid before meals for years. It’s also the one I’ve started using as a rinse in the shower – and I’ve noticed how soft and shiny my remaining hair is as a result!

I love this version in a glass bottle – but you can get it in plastic too, in different sizes on Amazon. Whatever the packaging, it holds certified organic raw apple cider vinegar that’s unfiltered, unpasteurized and unheated.

Bragg ACV contains “the mother”, too. Plus it’s kosher, gluten-free and non-GMO certified. Good to know.

The Lady Recommends...

Bragg Organic Apple Cider Vinegar

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Best Apple Cider Vinegar Pills

1) VitaPost Apple Cider Vinegar Supplements

Like I’ve said, popping an ACV pill is a great way to get your daily dose of acetic acid in a more palatable way. Suitable for vegetarians, these cellulose capsules are made in the US within an FDA registered facility that follows GMP (Good Manufacturing Practices) guidelines.

The capsules are easy to swallow and you just need to take 2 a day, with food. Each capsule has 1300mg ACV, equivalent to a quarter teaspoon. I always find it’s easier to remember in the morning – so you can take them after breakfast and enjoy their mood-boosting, energizing effects!

They’re also great in the morning if you suffer from digestive issues. While I take a tablespoon of the raw liquid for this (and sometimes swig from the bottle!) this reviewer mentions how capsules are a safer bet…

I used to take a shot of ACV every morning but my dentist recommended I take it in a capsule to protect my teeth. I am happy with this product, the same results as the real thing. – Claire

It’s probably a good time for me to make the switch, too – I feel like my teeth will thank me for it!

The Lady recommends...

VitaPost Apple Cider Vinegar Supplements

check them out

2. Goli Nutrition Apple Cider Vinegar Gummies

Ok so technically these are chewy gummies rather than pills to swallow – but I just had to include them on my list! Goli ACV Gummies are getting amazing reviews for their taste, plus their many health benefits: like fighting acid reflux and helping digestion. Note, they’re not nearly as concentrated as VitaPost ACV (only 500mg per gummy) – but they’re a good “gateway” to the superfood!

100% organic, vegan and gluten-free, Goli’s ACV gummies don’t have any artificial ingredients – just a delicious natural offering of ACV, beetroot, pomegranate and B vitamins. Take 2 a day, first thing in the morning, for an extra energy boost.

Plus, Goli partners with a company called Vitamin Angels – and for every purchase you make, it donates a 6-month supply of vitamins to a child in need in a bid to tackle malnutrition around the world.

The Lady Recommends...

Goli Nutrition Apple Cider Vinegar Gummies

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Side Effects of Apple Cider Vinegar & When to Avoid

Before drinking the liquid, popping a capsule or washing your hair with an ACV rinse, note that apple cider vinegar is not for everyone. Yes, it’s natural but it’s also quite acidic – so some people may not be able to tolerate it.

Potential Side Effects

Stomach aches (in some cases, it can have an adverse effect on digestion)

Itchy/flaky scalp (if you’ve got a dry scalp already)

Erosion of tooth enamel or irritation of the throat (if drinking the liquid)

Lowered potassium levels

How To Do An ACV Rinse (Apple Cider Vinegar) on Natural Hair | BiancaReneeToday

Buyer beware: Like many natural remedies, you should avoid low-quality imitations, which can actually be quite toxic. This is because cheaper products include fillers, binding agents and harmful additives – or they have a super-low concentration of ACV.

So use a trusted brand from this post or do your own research – find out where the brand is based, where it manufactures ACV and if it sticks to GMP guidelines.

Finally, it’s worth bearing in mind that studies on apple cider vinegar’s health benefits focus on the liquid, rather than the pill form. These supplements aren’t FDA-approved, either – although the VitaPost ones are made in an FDA-approved facility.

Contraindications

Avoid taking ACV (or consult your doctor first) if:

You’re pregnant or breastfeeding (I always think better safe than sorry before making any dietary changes, although ACV doesn’t seem to be harmful in these cases)

You have diabetes. (Even though safe use of ACV may actually help you regulate levels, it can lower your blood sugar – so ask your doctor.)

The product seems unnaturally cheap and is clear in color – beware of imitation products!

You have an ulcer – ACV can aggravate this pre-existing condition.

A Summary of ACV

It has lots of health benefits, including promoting hair growth

Soothes scalp irritation and clears debris

There are different types available: liquid, capsules and gummies

You can use it as an after-shampoo rinse, or introduce it into your diet

There are some side effects and contraindications of using apple cider vinegar

Make sure you buy from a reputable brand

Common Questions

How often should I use apple cider vinegar on my hair?

Can I drink apple cider vinegar?

What are the side effects of apple cider vinegar pills?

Can vinegar damage your hair?

Can I leave apple cider vinegar on my hair overnight?

Can I mix apple cider vinegar with my shampoo?

How long do you leave apple cider vinegar on your scalp?

Final Thoughts: How Do You Like Them Apples?!

Very much, actually! Although, apple cider vinegar is one natural remedy that divides opinion. Probably because it’s one of the few that actually comes with potentially harmful side effects. Still, it follows the “great in small doses” principle – so as with anything I recommend, use your best judgement.

Try the liquid first if you like, and if that feels like too much, you can take the supplements or gummies. In all cases, if you’re unsure, ask your doctor!

Personally, I’ve really benefited from bringing apple cider vinegar into my daily routine. And I’ll continue being a loyal fan, whatever form it takes!

I’m curious to know…do you use ACV for hair growth? Or for any other health reasons? How has it helped you…or not?! And how do you use apple cider vinegar in your daily life? Share your thoughts below!

Apple Cider Vinegar (ACV) is an all-natural health supplement that has been gaining popularity in recent years. One reason for this is due to its hair benefits, enabling you to clean your hair and scalp and accelerate hair growth.

This post will introduce you to apple cider vinegar and its variety of uses. This includes a look at the ways in which you can use apple cider vinegar for hair growth.

In addition, you will learn three ways to add ACV to your hair care routine and how to use this supplement most effectively.

The Rise of Apple Cider Vinegar

As a centuries-old folk remedy, apple cider vinegar has been used for a variety of medicinal and cosmetic purposes around the world.

This supplement contains a number of beneficial minerals and nutrients, including vitamins b and c, and niacin. In addition, it contains malic acid, acetic acid, and citric acid – all of which have their own benefits.

In recent years, apple cider vinegar has grown in popularity among the health and wellness community (1, 2).

How Apple Cider Vinegar Can Combat Hair Loss

In addition to the above-mentioned benefits, apple cider vinegar can also be a treatment option for individuals suffering from hair loss. Here are just a few things it can do.

It Removes Buildup from the Scalp

Scalp buildup is a common occurrence, and it is a result of daily living.

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Buildup consists of sebum, dirt, dead skin, hair products, pollution, and even harmful chemicals (such as DHT). This buildup can clog the hair follicles, and this makes it difficult for hair growth to continue.

(Learn natural ways of unblocking hair follicles here.)

As a cleansing rinse, apple cider vinegar can gently remove this buildup and prevent it from returning by balancing the scalp’s pH level.

It Improves Blood Circulation to Hair Follicles

Androgenetic Alopecia (AGA), also known as Male-Pattern Baldness (MPB), is the most common cause of hair loss in men (and the second most common in women) (3). To understand why this is, it is important to know how AGA works.

DHT is a chemical believed to contribute most significantly to the hair thinning and loss suffered by those with AGA (4). This is an androgen (sex) hormone produced from testosterone with the help of 5-alpha-reductase (5AR).

testosterone to DHT

Individuals with AGA do not usually have more DHT; instead, their follicles are more sensitive to the normal levels present within their hair follicle cells. Eventually, this sensitivity leads to miniaturization of the hair follicle and an interruption of the hair growth cycle.

As miniaturization occurs, blood flow to the follicles is restricted. This leads to poor delivery of oxygen and vital nutrients, as well as less removal of waste and buildup.

Apple cider vinegar, however, can improve blood circulation. While this itself will not reverse hair miniaturization, ACV can also remove DHT from the scalp and lessen the irritation.

It Treats and Prevents Dandruff

Dandruff is an embarrassing problem, but it is also one that causes much discomfort and can even lead to hair fall. There are a number of natural remedies for this condition, however.

While not much is known about the mechanism, it is believed that the acidity of apple cider vinegar makes it difficult for Malassezia – the fungus responsible for dandruff – to live and spread.

While not a direct cause of hair loss, dandruff can be responsible for increased thinning. This is because scratching of the scalp can stress the hair and follicles, and can even result in permanent scarring if allowed to continue.

It Prevents the Growth of Bacteria and Yeast

A common problem among the general population, bacteria and yeast overgrowths can lead to permanent scarring, thinning, and hair loss.

A few of the more common infections include dandruff and seborrheic dermatitis (yeast), scalp folliculitis (bacteria), and impetigo (bacteria). These can be uncomfortable and unsightly, but they can also cause permanent damage to the scalp if not addressed immediately.

Seborrheic dermatitis is a severe form of dandruff, and it can cause flaking, itching, irritation, and inflammation.

Malic acid is a compound found within ACV, and it contributes significantly to its antiseptic abilities (5).

With regular use of ACV then, you can treat infections and prevent them from reappearing. This is vital if you want to maintain the health of your scalp.

It Targets Free Radicals and Reverses Signs of Aging

Free radicals are atoms present within the body (6). However, they are missing an electron and must scavenge it from other atoms in order to complete themselves.

These scavenging activities lead to the degradation of vital cells, including skin and hair cells. This contributes to advanced aging, poor immune functioning, and it can make hair loss possible (7, 8).

antioxidants fight free radicals

Antioxidants rid the body of free radicals by donating an electron. This makes it so the free radicals are “complete” and no longer have to scavenge from other bodily cells.

Citric acid, however, is an antioxidant found within ACV (9). This compound works to target and rid the body of free radicals, and this protects healthy cells from their scavenging.

Availability and Cost

Aside from its many health and cosmetic benefits, the two greatest things about apple cider vinegar are its 1) availability; and 2) low cost.

Apple cider vinegar can be found in grocery stores and health markets around the world, and it can also be purchased online from retailers such as Amazon.

There are a variety of brands to choose from. These include Bragg’s, EDEN, Dynamic Health, and Vitacost.

How to Choose the Best Apple Cider Vinegar

The main thing to look for when purchasing ACV is the “mother.” This is a pulpy substance, and it is where the majority of the vitamins and minerals reside. ACV without the mother will NOT deliver the same results.

If the ACV is cloudy, that is good! That means it contains the mother and is just what you need.

You should also consider how the product is filtered.

The best ACV product will be raw and unfiltered. The filtering process can remove many minerals and nutrients, and it can also remove a significant portion of the “mother.” When you buy unfiltered, you ensure you will get the full benefit from its use.

3 Ways to Add Apple Cider Vinegar to Your Hair Care Routine

Here are three ways to add apple cider vinegar to your daily routine.

Add It To Your Diet

While the majority of vinegar hair benefits come from direct application to the scalp, adding ACV to your diet can improve your body’s overall health. As a result, your scalp and hair will be healthier, too.

This versatile diet staple can be added to just about any recipe or meal. Add a few tablespoons to soups, stews, and broths. Or, use it as a base for your salad dressings and marinades.

If you like the tangy flavor, or if you just want a more direct way of consumption, you can even mix it into water and tea.

Use It As a Hair Rinse

If simplicity is what you are looking for, you will be happy to learn that an ACV hair rinse can be made in just a matter of minutes.

Ingredients:

Apple cider vinegar

Water

Directions:

Combine the two ingredients in a 1:1 ratio, and store in a cool, dry place.

Before use, shake the mixture well.

To use, pour over wet hair. Leave in for 10-15 minutes, and massage your scalp to be sure the mixture reaches all areas. Rinse thoroughly, and repeat once per week or every two weeks.

Reviewing PhytoWorx shampoo

Hair Benefits:

As mentioned previously, ACV is an excellent way to remove buildup from your hair and scalp. With the help of this gentle rinse, then, you can nourish the scalp while gently removing any harmful chemicals and other buildup.

Take It As a Supplement

The final way to begin using ACV for hair growth is as a supplement.

Apple cider vinegar pills are a common supplement found in health food stores. They are essentially ACV that has been dehydrated and turned into capsules.

The main benefit of using ACV pills is just how easy they are to add to your day. You simply take one or two with a glass of water, and you are all set.

But you may want to consider that the process involved in dehydration can remove some nutrients.

There is something to be said for consuming raw ACV in its natural form. If you are in a pinch, though, then ACV pills can enable you to supplement with the beneficial drink very easily.

One other thing to keep in mind is that ACV pills can be more potent. This is because there is often a higher dose within the capsules than you would be able to consume in one shot.

The Potential Downsides of Apple Cider Vinegar Use

When it comes to creating a long-term hair care routine, it is important to focus on balance and sustainability.

There are many great things about apple cider vinegar as mentioned above. It creates a healthy scalp environment which is crucial for hair regrowth. As with anything, too much of a good thing can be bad.

Apple cider vinegar, while healthy, can be drying if used too frequently.

When apple cider vinegar is applied to the scalp, it removes many “bad” things such as product buildup, excess sebum, dandruff flakes, and microbes. Along with the bad, though, there are some good things that are removed, too. Namely, sebum.

While sebum often gets a bad rep, it is actually an important part of an otherwise healthy scalp.

Sebum is the natural oil produced by the scalp’s sebaceous glands (just inside the hair follicle). A layer of sebum coats the scalp and hair strands, and this protects the scalp from various things such as UV rays and other types of everyday damage.

Just as with harsh chemicals found in many hair products, apple cider vinegar can also strip the scalp of its thin layer of sebum if not used carefully. This can result in long-term damage to the scalp and hair.

The good news is that, with apple cider vinegar, moderation is key.

We can use ACV to gently cleanse the scalp without constantly stripping it of its protective oils.

The best course of action is to begin using an ACV rinse just once every two weeks. This is frequent enough to see the cleansing benefits but infrequent enough to prevent dryness. If you find this schedule to be beneficial, you can attempt to increase ACV’s external use to once per week.

If you notice signs of dryness or irritation, then pull back to using it once every two weeks.

The goal is to maintain a healthy balance of natural oils on the scalp while also keeping the scalp clean and free from microbes, buildup, etc. This will ensure the healthiest environment for hair to grow.

Conclusion

While the results may not be as dramatic as minoxidil or finasteride, ACV can supplement your health and contribute to a balanced and clean scalp. This is essential for the growth of strong, healthy locks.

Of course, apple cider vinegar alone is not enough to treat your hair loss. Instead, you must find out the cause and treat it at its source.

More than a million people have read my articles about cider vinegar, and many of them have shared their positive experiences with me.

Apple cider vinegar will give you beautiful, healthy hair.

Apple Cider Vinegar Promotes Hair Growth

I’ve been taking apple cider vinegar for years to help me lose weight and to improve my skin, but I only recently learned that it can also help with hair loss. I've lost more hair in two years than I’d like to admit. When I heard from a friend that apple cider vinegar can improve hair quality and stop hair loss, I had to try it for myself.

I’ve been using an ACV hair rinse about twice a week for almost a year now. I’ve stopped losing so much hair, and the hair that remains is healthier, shinier, and stronger. If you’re interested in reversing or stopping your own hair loss or even just in repairing damaged hair, then this article will show you how apple cider vinegar can help.

I will first discuss how it can benefit your hair and then will give you some tips on how to use it based on my personal experience.

How ACV Helps Your Hair

Apple cider vinegar nourishes hair and creates a healthy scalp in a number of different ways:

Nutrients. ACV provides a number of much-needed nutrients, such as potassium, which is essential for hair growth. It also helps smooth your hair, reducing the incidence of split ends.

Protective Layer. It also repairs damaged hair by restoring the hair’s protective layer. Excess shampooing, UV rays, and air pollutants all weaken this protective layer.

pH balance. Shampooing typically increases the pH factor. Human hair is acidic, with a pH factor of 4 to 6. Apple cider vinegar has a pH factor of about 4. Using ACV helps restore your hair’s natural pH balance, which also helps maintain your hair’s protective layer.

A healthy scalp. ACV eliminates any nasty chemicals and dead cells from your scalp. This allows the skin to breathe naturally and opens the pores in the skin. A healthy scalp prevents dandruff build-up. ACV also has anti-fungal and antibacterial qualities that can eliminate any itchiness.

Cleaning your hair: Mixing ACV rinse with 1 teaspoon of baking soda helps remove nasty chemicals from your hair. If you are adding baking soda to the ACV rinse, then you don't even need to use commercial shampoo.

Making Apple Cider Vinegar hair rinse is actually quite simple.

How to Make Apple Cider Vinegar Hair Rinse

Making the apple cider vinegar hair rinse is easy.

Simply take one part warm water and mix it with one part organic apple cider vinegar. That's it.

Don't use cold or hot water. Hot water can damage your hair, while cold water may not be able to get rid of the chemicals, and you'll end up with dandruff on your scalp.

Did You Know?

The malic acid in ACV treats fungal and bacterial infections.

How to Use the ACV Rinse

Wash your hair with normal shampoo as usual. While your hair is wet, apply the apple cider vinegar rinse to your hair.

If you have time, leave the ACV in your hair for 15 to 20 minutes before rinsing off. This will maximize the benefits of apple cider vinegar by making sure all the nutrients and enzymes get absorbed. Then rinse your hair as usual.

Some people use ACV hair rinse without diluting it, which makes the treatment even stronger and more effective. However, first-time users should dilute ACV with water just to make sure there’s no adverse reaction.

If you add a bit of baking soda to the ACV rinse, you don't even need to use a shampoo.

Try to avoid getting any of the ACV in your eyes, as it can sting pretty badly.

How Apple Cider Vinegar Can Grow Your Hair Faster and Healthier | Dr. Mandell

What Kind Should I Buy?

Many commercial ACV products are not good for hair loss treatment.

While buying apple cider vinegar, make sure it is organic. Organic ACV is made from organic apples and does not contain harmful chemicals, fertilizers, and pesticides.

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Step 3: Rinse it out

Thoroughly rinse the mixture out of your hair, and dry as usual.

Can Apple Cider Vinegar Make Your Hair Grow?

Maybe. While there is no scientific evidence that apple cider vinegar can help your hair grow, many people swear by the method. Here’s one possible reason why: Apple cider vinegar does a great job cleaning and clarifying hair. Because it removes the debris and product buildup that’s often responsible for clogging follicles and causing conditions such as dandruff, it may put your hair in a better position to be able to grow.

If it’s healthy hair you’re after, here are 10 foods to eat more often!

How Often Should I Use Apple Cider Vinegar on My Hair?

It depends on your particular scalp and hair needs. If your hair tends to be dry, you may want to use the rinse less often; if your hair and scalp are more on the oily side, you may want to do it more frequently. Generally speaking, though, you’ll want to rinse your hair with an apple cider vinegar solution a couple times a week.

Is apple cider vinegar good for black hair?

Whether you need something to make the most of your relaxed mane or you're after super-hydrating products for your natural curls, you may be able to find exactly what you're looking for in your pantry. The more you learn about Black hair and what's good for it, the more you may be surprised to learn that your kitchen can hold a wealth of goodies. In many cases, you'll save money and time by looking on your pantry shelf for your next natural haircare miracle.

Apple cider vinegar rinses aren't for everyone, but if you want to give this inexpensive treatment a try, you'll enjoy the following benefits. Remember, don't use undiluted vinegar on your hair; this is a rinse, mixed with plenty of water. The trick is finding the perfect ratio of ACV to water; some women swear by a 1:4 of ACV: water, while others use much more water. Since this is an acid we're talking about, it's better to err on the side of more water. Keep scrolling to find out some of the hair and scalp benefits of using apple cider vinegar on natural hair.

Apple Cider Vinegar Rinse for Healthy Hair & Scalp (plus my curly hair wash routine!)

5 Benefits of ACV Rinses for Natural Hair

ALISON CZINKOTA/BYRDIE

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Closes Cuticles, Leading to Smoothness

If you view a strand of hair under a microscope, you'll see that it's not a smooth tube. It's covered with scale-like cuticles. When your hair's cuticles lie flat, your tresses may appear shinier (or at least have some sheen) and your hair feels smoother. Hair cuticles may be damaged through poor treatment and chemical processes. Raised cuticles may not reflect light as well and feel rougher.

Similar to pH balancing shampoos, using ACV rinses after cleansing may help to close the cuticle shaft and prevent cuticle swelling, making your hair smoother, shinier, and easier to comb through, as well as holding moisture in more effectively.

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Balances Hair's pH Levels

Brief science lesson: On the pH scale, which ranges from 0 to 14, human hair falls on the lower and mildly acidic end, somewhere between 4.5 and 5.5. Unfortunately, many of the hair products we use disrupt our hair's natural pH since a lot of them are alkaline and on the higher end of the scale.1

Undiluted apple cider vinegar usually has a pH of around 2.5, but you shouldn't use it undiluted on your hair! Diluted, it's usually closer to a pH of about 5; still acidic and potentially better than a pH of 7, often found in commercial products. A vinegar rinse might help to restore your hair's natural pH balance, keeping it healthy.

To avoid damage or rough hair, begin with a large ratio of water to vinegar (4:1 / water:vinegar is a good starting point), but you can always increase or decrease your amounts as needed.

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Removes Product Buildup

One of the reasons people go on a no-poo regimen like ACV rinses is because it is meant to remove buildup that can make your hair appear dull. If you don't use shampoo, you still need to get old products and dirt out of your hair. ACV rinses, usually combined with a baking soda cleansing routine, are great for cutting through oily buildup. Once all those old products are rinsed away thanks to the vinegar, your hair may feel softer and appear more vibrant.

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Relieves Itchy Scalp

If you suffer from an itchy scalp or dandruff, vinegar rinses might provide relief from the irritation because vinegar contains antibacterial qualities.2 The itchiness doesn't need to be an effect of product buildup, but in some cases, it is. ACV may effectively cut through buildup on the hair and scalp, giving your scalp the fresh, clean start it needs.

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Affordability

Not everyone has unlimited funds when it comes to buying hair products. Whenever you can find something that works for you while saving you a lot of money, it's time to celebrate. Not only is regular apple cider vinegar incredibly inexpensive, but it's also easy to find. Just pop into your grocery store, chain, or discount retailer and chances are, you'll find a bottle of ACV cheap.

Of course, if you choose the organic or raw ACV, you'll spend more, but many tout the benefits of the non-organic version just as well.

Do What Works for You

Remember: If you try ACV rinses and find that your hair isn't feeling or looking better, there's no reason to continue doing them. As with other natural and commercial products, some things will work better for you than others. The good thing about ACV is that you won't go broke trying it out!

Can apple cider vinegar reverse grey hair?

Grey hair can get annoying irrespective of age, and the discovery of a white strand of hair tends to take away all our confidence. People are willing to go to any lengths to reverse premature greying. It is important that we get rid of any traces of grey hair, and the best way to beat this is to treat it naturally. Here are home remedies for grey hair. These are easy to do all by yourself in the comfort of your home and can effectively treat grey hair concerns.

Grey Hair Treatment At Home

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Let us remember that grey hair is not always a result of aging, it can be due to lifestyle reasons. Many argue that grey hair is mostly due to the lack of sufficient nutrients, which adversely affects the health of hair. Hence, these natural remedies for grey hair will ensure to provide all required balance and nutrition the hair needs with quick and easy-to-do shortcuts. Now get healthy and shiny hair by using these grey hair remedies!

What Causes Grey Hair?

Before we move on to how to get rid of ageing and grey hair, let us first understand what causes grey hair. There may be several reasons to get grey hair, and here are a few.

Most importantly, grey hair occurs due to Vitamin B12 deficiency. The hair cells will stop producing the pigment as a result, and in turn, hair cannot get black colour naturally. This results in hair to become dull and grey.

Grey hair can also be caused due to genetics. If your parents have premature aging of hair, you may be prone to the same

Lack of a healthy diet and nutrition is another significant reason for grey hair. Having too much junk and processed food will lead to this concern!

Smoking and excessive consumption of alcohol can also lead to grey hair eventually.

How to Stop Grey Hair with Home Remedies?

Grey hair can occur at any age, including for those at a young age. Home remedies are the best and natural organic ways for grey hair treatment. Given that grey hair is caused due to a lack of healthy nutrition in the diet, the treatment remedies for grey hair mainly focus on the same, getting the right balance in the form of natural ingredients.

These home remedies for grey hair reversal will add the required nutrients and proteins, along with vitamins and antioxidants, which work wonders in providing the health needed by the hair. They help to cover the hair follicles, get strong, and reduce dull hair naturally.

Hence, one can try out these home remedies to cover grey hair as they do not just bring the hair back to black colour, but also provide nutrients to the hair.

Home Remedies to Get Rid of Grey Hair Naturally:

Let us now come to see some natural remedies to reverse grey hair. These methods are quite easy to do and effective to bring in results. Without harsh chemicals and natural ingredients, one can easily take the help of these remedies for preventing grey hair.

1. Amla Powder for Grey Hair:

This hair mask with amla powder and oil is quite easy and straightforward to do at home. The richness of vitamin C and antioxidant properties help much to preserve the melanin in the hair. Here is how to use amla for grey hair.

Ingredients:

Amla powder.

3 tablespoons of coconut oil.

Preparation Time: 10 minutes.

How to Prepare and Apply:

Heat coconut oil in a saucepan.

Add amla powder to it.

Stir it and allow it to cool.

Massage the scalp and hair roots well.

Work through the entire length of hair.

Leave it for one hour.

Wash off with mild shampoo.

How Often: 1-2 times per week.

[ Also Read: Amla Powder for Grey Hair ]

2. Henna for Grey Hair:

Henna works great with grey hair. This is an age-old remedy used effectively by women of all age groups. Henna is a natural dye that helps with antifungal and antibacterial properties to darken one’s hair easily. Henna can help to cover up grey hair naturally. Here is how to use and apply henna along with amla powder for grey hair.

Ingredients:

2 teaspoons of black tea leaves.

4 tablespoons of henna powder.

1 tablespoon of lemon juice.

1 tablespoon of amla powder.

Gloves.

Preparation Time: 1 hour.

How to Prepare and Apply:

In a cup of water, add henna powder and soak overnight.

In the morning, boil the black tea in the water at first. Allow it to cool.

Add henna for grey hair paste in the black tea leaves to the water.

Let it soak and stir to get a paste.

Use gloves on your hands and slowly apply the mixture to the hair and scalp.

Leave it on for 2-3 hours.

Rinse it off.

How Often: Once a month.

3. Black Tea Remedy for Grey Hair:

The next natural remedy is through black tea leaves, which is immensely helpful to stop grey hair naturally. The black tea stains are popular to darken the hair naturally. It adds shine to the hair and works to bring smooth texture as well. The hair usually begins to look darker and black with no artificial methods.

Ingredients:

2 teaspoons of black tea leaves.

1 cup of water.

Preparation Time: 1 hour.

How to Prepare and Apply:

Boil black tea in a cup of water.

Set it aside to cool.

Apply it to the hair and leave it for 2 hours.

Rinse with water without shampoo.

How Often: Once in 2 weeks.

4. Curry Leaves and Coconut Oil:

The next is how to stop grey hair permanently comes with the popular treatment of using curry leaves. This treatment for grey hair is great and works wonders in producing the required amount of melanin to hair. The hair and scalp health is restored and dullness in hair will reduce if followed regularly. These natural herbs for gray hair can be used in the following way.

Ingredients:

3 tablespoons of coconut oil.

Curry leaves.

Preparation Time: 1 hour.

How to Prepare and Apply:

Heat curry leaves and oil in a saucepan.

Switch it off when you see a black residue forming.

Allow the oil to cool.

Massage this on the scalp once cooled.

Make sure that the entire length of hair is covered.

Leave the curry leaves and coconut oil for one hour.

Rinse it with a mild shampoo.

How Often: 2 times a week.

[ Also Read: Curry Leaves for Hair Growth ]

5. Almond Oil for Grey Hair:

The next in the query of how to make grey hair black naturally is through the usage of almond oil. This treatment is excellent in promoting healthy hair and reducing grey hair effectively in no time. The hair can be restored with shine, and colour quickly and effectively. Blood circulation is improved drastically with almond oil, as well!

Ingredients:

2 tablespoons of almond oil.

2 tablespoons of lemon juice.

Preparation Time: 5 minutes

How to Prepare and Apply:

Mix both the ingredients in a bowl.

Massage this almond oil for grey hair on the scalp and hair.

Leave it for one hour.

Rinse it with shampoo.

How Often: Once a week.

6. Potato Peel Rinse:

In potato peel rinses, the starch solution is great to work efficiently in hiding grey hair and in bringing back the black pigment. This method for reversing grey hair naturally is quite easy to do and not popular among many. The potato peel works as a natural colourant, and one can avoid visiting hair salons through this remedy.

Ingredients:

Potato peels from 5-6 potatoes.

2 cups of water.

Preparation Time: 5 minutes.

How to Prepare and Apply:

Boil all potato peels.

Until it is a thick starchy solution.

Let the solution cool down and strain the peels.

Collect all liquid in a container.

Wash your hair first then add potato peel rinse to the hair.

Do not use shampoo again.

How Often: Once a week.

7. Apple Cider Vinegar:

The natural remedy from apple cider vinegar is among the easiest and best methods for bringing back melanin pigment to hair and getting a thick texture. The vinegar helps significantly to bring in shine and smoothness to hair, reduce greyness effectively. This is an excellent natural treatment for grey hair.

Ingredients:

2 tablespoons of apple cider vinegar.

2 cups of water.

Preparation Time: 15 minutes.

How to Prepare and Apply:

Dilute apple cider vinegar and water in a bowl or container.

Apply this solution all over the hair and scalp.

Leave it for half an hour.

Rinse your hair with shampoo and conditioner, and with cold water.

How Often: Once a week.

[ Also More: White Hair Treatments ]

8. Ridge Gourd for Grey Hair:

The ridge gourd is quite a nutritious veggie rich in fibre. Applying ridge gourd to hair also works wonders to generate melanin and hair pigment well in the hair. It helps to make hair follicles strong too. This is an excellent herbal treatment for grey hair.

Ingredients:

1 cup of coconut oil.

1 chopped ridge gourd.

Preparation Time: 40 minutes.

How to Prepare and Apply:

The chopped ridge gourd should be dry completely.

Soak the pieces in coconut oil for approximately three days.

Boil pieces in oil for five minutes in the end.

Allow the mixture to cool.

Strain and take oil in a separate container.

Start massaging to the scalp.

Leave it for one hour.

Rinse it off.

How Often: Twice a week.

9. Black Coffee Method:

Black coffee helps greatly to reduce grey hair concern if used regularly. This is not although a permanent solution. The regular application will give you hair jet black in colour. With regular usage, it can be considered as a popular method to reverse grey hair permanently.

Ingredients:

Strong brewed black coffee.

Preparation Time: 15 minutes.

How to Prepare and Apply:

Brew strong coffee and allow it to cool.

Pour coffee on hair and massage well.

Leave it for half an hour.

Rinse with water, not shampoo.

How Often: Twice a week.

10. Fenugreek Seeds Remedy:

The amino acids and antioxidants present in fenugreek seeds help to reduce premature aging and greying of hair. Even those who are in their teens and younger can reduce premature aging with its regular application. The amino acids present in fenugreek seeds help to restore the natural colour soon. This is one of the best ways on how to get rid of grey hair through fenugreek!

Ingredients:

¼ cup of fenugreek seeds.

½ cup of coconut oil.

Preparation Time: 15 minutes.

How to Prepare and Apply:

Heat coconut oil first in a saucepan.

Add fenugreek seeds to heated oil.

Leave it for 10 minutes.

Keep it aside to cool.

Strain the seeds and massage hair with the remaining oil.

Leave it overnight.

Rinse your hair in the morning with a mild shampoo.

How Often: Twice or thrice a week depending on hair type.

11. Oils for Grey Hair:

Regular oiling and massaging help hair to stay healthy, reduce grey hair, and preserves the natural essence in hair along with getting darker hair colour. In specific, carrier oils like Jamaican black castor seed oil, black seed oil, or olive oil are particularly helpful for restoring hair’s health. The blood circulation to hair is immensely improved and can, in turn, work wonders for grey hair.

Ingredients:

3 tablespoons of olive/black seed oil/Jamaican castor oil.

Preparation Time: 5 minutes.

How to Prepare and Apply:

Heat one of these oils until warm.

Apply it to the hair and leave it for 1-2 hours.

Massage well.

Rinse it off with cold water.

How Often: 2 times a week.

12. Onion Juice Remedy:

The catalase enzyme present in onion juice is helpful in reversing greying of hair efficiently. It can darken the hair from roots and strengthen the hair follicles effectively. Make sure to wash hair very well after the application of onion, given that the ingredient is known for its pungent smell.

Ingredients:

Juice from one onion.

Preparation Time: 15 minutes.

How to Prepare and Apply:

Grate an onion and extract juice from it.

Press it in a sieve and obtain the juice.

Massage the juice on the scalp and leave it for one hour.

Rinse it properly.

How Often: Once a week.

13. Vitamins for Grey Hair Reversal:

A vitamin-rich food is required for reversing grey hair effectively. One needs a proper intake of diet and vitamin-rich food. A balanced diet along with Vitamin E capsules and oils are good to reduce and reverse greying. Here is how to go about consuming vitamins for grey hair reversal.

Ingredients:

Vitamin E capsule.

Coconut oil.

Preparation Time: 5 minutes.

How to Prepare and Apply:

Blend them both in a bowl.

Massage it on to the scalp and roots well.

Let it remain for 2 hours.

Rinse well.

How Often: Once a week.

14. Sage and Rosemary for Grey Hair:

Did you know that sage has the capabilities to reverse grey hair and darken the hair? It helps to improve follicle strength and reduce greying and aging of hair. Rosemary further also helps to nourish hair well. This blend works significantly to moisturize hair and reduce any premature aging. It is an easy home remedy to stop grey hair.

Ingredients:

Sage leaves.

5 drops of rosemary oil.

2 cups of water.

Preparation Time: 15 minutes.

How to Prepare and Apply:

Boil the sage leaves in water.

Let the mixture cool properly.

Collect the sage tea in the container.

Add rosemary oil to it.

Massage hair well with this oil.

Make sure all hair is covered with this solution.

Leave it for half an hour.

Rinse with a mild shampoo.

How Often: Twice a week.

15. Chamomile Tea Rinse:

Chamomile tea has properties that can permanently reduce aging of hair and grey hair with time if used regularly. It helps and acts substantially to reduce grey hair and works wonders to darken hair and provide excellent health as well.

Ingredients:

2 cups of chamomile tea.

Preparation Time: 5 minutes.

How to Prepare and Apply:

Mega Gelatin Protein Treatment for Wavy Hair

Brew 2 cups of chamomile tea.

Let it cool.

Once the tea is cooled well, wash your hair.

After shampooing the hair, apply tea on the hair.

Do not use shampoo again.

How Often: Twice a week.

Additional Tips to Treat Grey Hair:

Here are a few extra tips on managing hair health and avoiding the ageing of hair.

Healthy food and diet will help immensely to reverse grey hair and avoid ageing of hair. Do not consume excessively processed or junk food. Similarly, avoid sugar intake as well.

Hair oil for grey hair is quite effective. The essential oil application and its massage on hair help immensely to nourish hair; work wonders to reduce ageing and bring a darker colour to the hair.

Ensure that hair is protected from external factors and pollutants. Cleanse hair well every three days without fail.

Work towards having an overall healthy lifestyle. Reduce alcohol consumption and smoking. Have a balanced diet.

Make sure hair is well-nourished and moisturized.

We hope these home remedies for grey hair are useful. Given the common concern among the youth with greying and aging of hair, one can choose and use one of these natural remedies instead of products with harsh chemicals to treat grey hair. These are quite natural and are healthy too. Try these grey hair remedy and tell us which one worked the best for you. Also, try these regularly without fail to notice results quickly and effectively!

How does vinegar help straighten hair?

Some are born with curly hair and some are born with straight hair, but for some reason, no one is ever completely satisfied. I was born with hair that sort of fell in the middle. It’s always been pretty easy to manage. My two sisters who had very curly hair were both pretty jealous of how easy my hair was to take care of. They would constantly be using mousses and every possible product to try to control their frizz. My older sister constantly straightened her hair and now she blow dries it every day. My younger sister in the past few years has mastered using oils and creams. She’s done the keratin treatment. But for me, I’ve never put anything in my hair to tame it. Maybe hairspray on my wedding day.

Hair is made from keratin that contains sulfides. When the sulfides bond together, it creates a curl or a kink. How curly your hair depends on how many of these sulfides bonds you have. Hair straightening treatments have become a huge part of the beauty industry. These salon treatments promise their customers super straight hair that’s glossy and luxurious. The hairdressers and stylists fail to tell you the dangers of these treatments and how they can affect your health. Well, I’m about to blow your mind.

The Dangers Of Using Chemicals To Straighten Hair

Women holding strand of frizzy blonde hair and upset.

Dangers of using chemicals on hair.

Chemical relaxers straighten your hair by breaking the hair’s sulfide bonds. They rest your curls and kinks to fall into a straighter line. It’s basically a reversed perm. People use chemicals to straighten their hair to boost their confidence and attempt to make their daily hair styling much easier, but they don’t realize the dangers of using chemicals to straighten hair. They’re so dangerous because they usually contain formaldehyde. Formaldehyde is in a ton of hair products but it’s a carcinogenic impurity that is only released by the standard cosmetic preservatives. They can also cause chemical burns, damage, breakage, and hair loss.

Even after all the warnings and headlines, many treatments still contain formaldehyde. It’s not only found in straightening treatments. It’s found in hairsprays and other products as well. A lot of products claim to be more gentle than their competition, but don’t be fooled. Most relaxers use sodium hydroxide or a close relative. When you go the permanent straightening route, you’re going to need to make a lot of life changes. You may need to constantly touch up your hair because it won’t be fully the same texture. You’ll also want to avoid the rain like the plague. You never know how your hair will actually react to the chemicals, just how it’s supposed to react.

The Dangers Of Using A Straightener To Straighten Hair

Many people have the habit of straightening their hair every day. Let’s be honest, straight hair is definitely easier to deal with throughout one’s day. There are many side effects of using a straightener to straighten your hair. Applying heat directly to your hair so frequently is actually drying out your hair, which makes your hair more frizzy. Isn’t that what you were trying to avoid by straightening it? Straightening your hair using heat can also cause itchiness, redness, and rashes. One of the most extreme possible side effects of hair straightening is your hair beginning to fall out. This can simply happen by your hair iron breaking the hair at the root or burning it. Over time, the iron will cause your hair follicles and natural keratin to weaken the hair, causing it to fall out even more.

There are some flat irons that are worse than others. That’s because some irons have high levels of formaldehyde. When the iron is fully heated, it releases the chemical in gas form. This can irritate your eyes, throat, and nose. Exposure to this chemical for a long period of time has been linked with a higher risk of cancer.

Top 5 Ways How To Straighten Hair Naturally

1. Aloe Vera

Aloe vera on spoon.

Aloe vera for straighter hair.

The gel from the aloe vera plant can really do wonders. It quickly penetrates your hair, which not only moisturizes it but also straightens it. The gel also cleanses hair very efficiently and strip off all the extra oil and sebum. At the same time, it’s gentle and will preserve your hair’s integrity. It can even treat dandruff since its fatty acid reduces inflammation. It can also increase your hair growth with its ability to increase blood circulation.

You can apply it directly to your scalp or mix it with olive oil, almond oil, or coconut oil to reap all the benefits. Mix half a cup of aloe vera gel with the oil of your choice and apply it evenly to your hair. Better yet, massage it into your hair. Rinse the mixture off after an hour or leave it in and you’ll surely feel the difference. Aloe vera, in general, is a great way to make your hair look shinier, softer, and healthier. If you don’t already have an aloe vera plant in your house, you should probably think about getting one. It’s a great thing to have. Not only is it amazing for your hair and scalp, but it’s also great for your skin. From your simple moisturizing to burns, aloe vera is supreme.

2. Apple Cider Vinegar

apples and apple cider vinegar.

Straight hair using apple cider vinegar.

Apple Cider Vinegar is a great ingredient to naturally straightens your hair. It’s packed with enzymes that help smooth your hair while promoting growth. Not only does it straighten your hair but is also fights scalp infections and restores your hair’s natural pH levels. Many even use it as a natural hair conditioner. Using it as a conditioner 3 to 4 times a week instead of your conditioner with chemicals has been shows to straighten hair. It smoothes out all the frizz and kinks. You can also add 2 tbsp to a cup of water and slowly and gently pour it over your hair after a shower. Leave the mixture on your hair while you let it dry naturally.

Apple cider vinegar is meant to balance everything out, but if you’re not careful, you can overdo it. It contains acetic acid, which means it could irritate the skin if overused. If you find that the apple cider vinegar is worsening your scalp issues, then you should cut back on using it as much. When you use apple cider vinegar in your hair, you’re also repelling lice. As an adult, you may not care about that, but when you have a daughter who goes to school, you don’t want them bringing home any critters that could end up literally bugging you. Apple cider vinegar is for the whole family.

3. Castor Oil

caste oil in a bottle.

Benefits of castor oil.

Castor oil is great for naturally straightening your hair because it doesn’t contain any harmful compounds that could cause damage. The oil has been commonly used to treat hair loss in people suffering from alopecia. It can also help your hair grow more quickly. It’s also used as a treatment for many scalp conditions. Usually, the hair follicle will grow a little over a centimeter in a month, but many have claimed that castor oil can increase the growth 3-5 times that amount, which is really wonderful for patients with alopecia.

To use castor oil as a natural hair straightener, you’ll need to heat it up. While still warm, apply it to your entire scalp and massage it in for about five minutes. Wrap your hair in a warm towel. You can either wet the towel then heat it up or dip it in warm water. After about half an hour, rinse it out with your usual shampoo. Castor oil can easily stain your clothing, so I would recommend putting on an old t-shirt that you don’t care for before you do anything with the oil. You may also want to use rubber gloves to apply the oil to your hair just to be more comfortable, but it’s up to you.

4. Brushing Hair Out

Woman brushing wet hair.

Proper hair care

If you want to make sure your hair dries straight after a shower, you need to brush it out until its dry. Okay, you don’t need to constantly brush it the entire drying time, but every five minutes should do the job. You can also brush your hair continuously in front of a fan. For the best results, make sure you used a lot of conditioner. It’s not the greatest thing to brush wet hair, but having a head of hair filled with the remnants of conditioner definitely helps. Generally brushing your hair when it’s wet causes breakage.

This is definitely not the best method if you need to run after you take your showers or want to go right to sleep. We all know that if you sleep on wet hair, in the morning, the hair will still be wet and very curly. Which is why it’s important that your brush it until it’s completely straight if that’s the look you’re going for. Making your hair do something it’s not used to doing takes a lot of time and energy.

5. Natural Conditioner

Herbs and spices in wooden spoons.

Natural ingredients for DIY conditioner.

The great thing about naturally straightening your hair with a natural conditioner is that they do so much more than just straighten. They nourish and moisturize. This makes your hair look shiny, voluminous, and healthy, all while being straight. There are plenty of different routes you can take when choosing a natural conditioner or mask, but the best would be for you to make it yourself at home. There are so many more options when you take the DIY route.

You can choose to use almond milk. Rich in vitamin E, almond oil softens curls while strengthening the hair. To make an almond oil straightening mask, all you need is a half a cup of almond milk, 2 teaspoons of extra virgin olive oil, and 3 tablespoons of cornstarch. All are ingredients you most likely already own. After you have all your ingredients, warm the mixture in a pan on your stovetop until it’s thick. Remove it from the burner and allow it to cool before you apply it to your hair. Massage the mask into your hair and cover with a shower cap. Keep yourself busy while you wait the 20 minutes to rinse it out and for it to work its magic.

How To Straighten Hair Naturally Permanently

Woman smiling while holding up her hair

Straight hair

As mentioned above, there are plenty of ways to naturally straighten your hair, but you may find it an issue that none of these ways are permanent. Even though there may be some brands that claim they can provide you with a natural way to straighten your hair, it’s not really possible. Nothing in life is actually permanent. Even tattoos fade. You may think that you want something to be permanent but then after a week, you’re sick of it. Think of your nail polish color. The moment you get it, you love it and never want it to fade, but by the end of one week, you’re ripping it off. That’s just the way of the world.

Trends and styles fade, pin straight hair used to be in style in the ’90s, but now people prefer waves. There are definitely natural ways to straighten your hair, but none of them are going to be permanent. Our hair continues to grow until we die, so it may seem like we have unlimited opportunities to fix it, but some damage is irreparable. Our physical health and hair health are dependent on us taking caring of ourselves. Sometimes it’s better to embrace what you consider your “flaws” then try to fight them off.

Conclusion

Even after hearing about all the dangers of using a hot iron or chemical relaxers, I’m sure one you will still continue to do it. Therefore you should know that there’s a right way to do things and a not right way. There are many different hair treatments and you should have a consultation with a hairstylist before you decide to do any of them. What you may not know is that treatments can be combined. If you have a section of hair that’s thinner than the rest, you can use keratin there and a relaxer everywhere else. The hairstylist should be able to guide you.

Limit your use of a hair iron to twice a week if that’s your preferred way to straighten your hair. The temperature of the iron should stay on the low or medium setting. You should also never straighten your hair when it’s wet, even if the box and instructions say that you can. We all know that chemical relaxers and hot irons are damaging our hair and our health, so instead of using them, go the natural route. Sure you won’t get any permanent results, but you will get healthier results.

Does apple cider vinegar rinse strip hair color?

I started using apple cider vinegar hair rinse a few years ago when I stopped using shampoos with sulfates or harsh cleansing agents. I was looking for something natural to help clarify buildup from my scalp and hair without having to use a harsh clarifying shampoo.

Using apple cider vinegar over the last few years has really helped me improve my overall hair and scalp health. Read on for all the benefits of the ACV rinse and helpful tips on how to apply one for the best hair care.

Benefits of Apple Cider Vinegar Hair Rinse

The apple cider vinegar rinse is a really easy way to clarify your hair. It helps to remove product build-up, as well as seal the hair cuticles to prevent frizz and boost shine. Because it’s clarifying, it also helps to give your hair some volume, which is something women struggle with a lot.

SaveLong Healthy and Shiny Hair

Instagram / @ORGANICALLYANNA

Ensuring that your scalp is healthy is a really important part of growing healthy hair. Failing to clarify your scalp well can lead to scalp irritation, dandruff, and excess shedding. It can also result in your hair appearing oily more quickly between washes so that you are compelled to wash hair too frequently.

Using ACV rinse every now and then clarifies product buildup and excess oils to leave your scalp refreshed. Being an acidic substance, apple cider vinegar is also beneficial for balancing the ph levels of your hair.

Hair that is frizzy or dull tends to be more alkaline, so using the ACV rinse can really help to balance that out and leave you with silky, shiny hair. Clarifying curly hair with the rinse can also help you reset your curls, making some ‘proven methods’ finally work for you.

How to Use ACV Rinse for Scalp and Hair Care

One of my favorite aspects of the apple cider vinegar rinse is how easy it is to make one. All you need to do is mix 1 part apple cider vinegar with 2 parts water in a jar or a bottle. The amount of each is really up to you and your preferences, just stick to the 1:2 ratio. For example, if you want to use 1 cup of apple cider vinegar, you should mix it with 2 cups of water. I typically use half a cup of apple cider vinegar to one cup of water, but take your hair length and density into consideration and use what works for you.

SaveIngredients to Prepare an Apple Cider Vinegar Hair Rinse

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Once you have your rinse, it’s time to hop in the shower. You can use this rinse in a few different ways:

as a final rinse, after shampooing and conditioning,

in between your shampoo and conditioner,

at the beginning of your shower, before shampooing (the go-to method if the smell really bothers you).

I prefer to use it after rinsing out my shampoo. I carefully pour the rinse over my scalp and gently massage it in. Then, I pour the rest over my length and ends and let the hair rinse sit on my hair for 1-2 minutes before rinsing with water. I follow with my conditioner as usual – I find that this helps to get rid of the smell more easily. Here is what I get.

SaveHair Blogger Sharing DIY Hair Care Tips

Instagram / @ORGANICALLYANNA

If you choose to use it as a final hair rinse, you would apply it the same way after your conditioner and not rinse it out at all. Regardless of which way you choose to use it, one important thing to remember is not to get it in your eyes! I’ve made that mistake once and it was not a great experience, to say the least.

For those of you with color-treated hair, the apple cider vinegar rinse is not very acidic, so you can safely use it without stripping your hair color. Vinegar for hair can only affect its color when used more often than twice per week.

Helpful Tips and Tricks

The only downside of this rinse is the apple cider vinegar smell. I find that it goes away once my hair is completely dry, but if the smell bothers you a lot, I would recommend adding some flower extract or essential oils to your rinse when you make it. Some of my favorites are rosemary, lavender, and ylang ylang. Using the rinse in between your shampoo and conditioner can also help.

SaveProduct to Add to AVC Rinse to Combat Smell

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The ACV rinse doesn’t need to be used more than once a week. Overall, the frequency will depend on your hair type and how much build-up you experience. I personally use this about once or twice a month, but I don’t use any type of hairspray or styling products on my hair. On the rare occasion that I use dry shampoo, I might follow up with this rinse to clear it all out later.

It’s also important to note that if you have low porosity or protein-sensitive hair, this rinse might make your hair feel dry and brittle. If that’s the case, use this rinse once a month at most, and dilute it with some more water. If your hair still feels dry, follow up with a hydrating hair mask on your next wash day. If this doesn’t solve the dry hair issue, try using an alternative clearing product like New Wash, which gets great reviews from those following the no-poo method.

As always, listen to your hair, focus on what works best for your hair type and your hair care preferences, and ACV rinse will become the best friend for your hair and scalp.

SaveHair Blogger Using Apple Cider Vinegar for Hair

Instagram / @ORGANICALLYANNA

The apple cider vinegar rinse is one of the DIY treatments that I have been using the longest throughout my hair journey. I’m always really pleased with the results, and it’s really helped me maintain scalp and hair health. For more DIYs and hair tips, feel free to check out my Instagram @organicallyanna, as well as my YouTube channel.

Do you condition after apple cider vinegar rinse?

Many of us focus our efforts on cleansing and detoxing toxins out of our bodies in the post-holiday season. But what about our hair? It deserves a little love too, and today, wellness influencer Healthy Hair to Toe breaks down how to get soft, shiny locks with a DIY Apple Cider Vinegar Detox. Here’s her take.

The Apple Cider Vinegar Rinse method is something I’ve been using for about five years. I’ve seen women of all backgrounds, races and hair types use this rinse method with great success. The results are all the same: a thriving scalp, which equates to growing healthy strands.

What makes apple cider vinegar so special? Apple cider vinegar can naturally restore a balanced pH to our hair. Hair’s natural acidity prevents growth of fungi and bacteria in the hair and scalp. Unfortunately, most of the hair products we use along with daily exposure to pollutants naturally lead to build up. This build up suffocates the scalp and hinders our hair’s growth process.

Also, many of the cleansing and styling products we use are highly alkaline. A product that is too alkaline will cause the hair cuticle to open, stripping away your naturally acidic sebum that fights bacteria. While a substance that is too acidic will cause the cuticle to contract, not allowing moisture to penetrate the shaft (dry strands).

ACV rinses naturally remove that growth-hindering build up from your scalp to restore a healthy balanced pH to your scalp and hair. This promotes shinier and stronger hair that is less prone to breakage.

DIY Apple Cider Vinegar Detox

Ingredients

1/4 cup raw & organic apple cider vinegar (ACV) + 2 cups of water

Deep conditioner

Moisturizing styler

Oil of your choice (optional)

Directions:

First, apply the ACV + water solution to your hair and scalp as a rinse (don’t wash it out). Then, apply a really good deep conditioner to hydrate your detoxed strands. Rinse that out and then style your hair as usual. Last, seal your hair with an oil of your choice. This is an optional step but extremely important for curly hair since it’s prone to dryness.

Tips:

Be sure to use apple cider vinegar with “the mother” (a colony of beneficial bacteria) in it. So pick unrefined, unpasteurized and unfiltered ACV. I personally use Bragg’s Apple Cider Vinegar for everything.

Curly & multi-textured hair gals: Opt to finger-detangle hair with oil prior to applying this rinse. I use coconut oil but there are a ton of alternative oils you can use if coconut oil isn’t your thing. Babassu oil is basically a cousin of coconut oil but a much lighter version. Other light oils include jojoba, avocado, olive, grapeseed and almond oils. If you have naturally straight hair, you can skip the detangling process.

You can apply your ACV rinse in sections or all over your hair in one application.

You’re going to use this rinse in place of regular shampoo. Apple cider vinegar is a detoxifying agent and cleanser all in one. Hair should feel “squeaky” clean after rinsing. If you find your hair feels weighed down or greasy by the oil you’ve used just apply more ACV solution to your hair. You can also cleanse with a non-toxic cleanser of your choice. My go-to cleansers are Dr. Bronner’s Castille Soap as well as Raw African Black Soap.

I recommend using the ACV rinse method once a month. You’ll notice hair that is shinier, stronger and overall much healthier than before. Curly girls are in for a treat with this hair rinse. Curls, waves, kinks and coils will be more defined than ever!

Try a few more DIY beauty recipes at home, like this Manuka honey face mask or this pumpkin spice face mask.

Which oil makes hair grow faster?

Suffering from hair loss and alopecia? and you want natural treatments to tackle hair loss, then there’s good news, because there are some hair oils which can really fasten up hair growth, tackle hair fall, and improve the overall quality of the hair. Unfortunately, I cannot keep hair oils on my head, but I know that a lot of people who have beautiful and long hair use certain oils. If you are suffering from thinning of hair, scalp problems, dandruff, and other hair issues, do try these if every other remedy in the book has failed. Some people dismiss the “hair oil-hair growth” theory, but a lot of people who have had long and healthy hair by using hair oils say otherwise. So, here’s a list of the best hair oils that would aid in faster hair growth.

30 DAY CHALLENGE | Apple Cider Vinegar Hair Rinse // SHOCKED

There are many essential hair oils women can use to boost hair health. These oils are ingredients in many hair products, including specialty shampoos and conditioners. Using essential oils to the scalp can help stimulate hair growth and make hair to grow healthier and stronger. Hair oils not only improve the quality of hair, but also prevent damage. They act as lubricants, so they’re great for detangling wet hair and preventing knots. They also act as a sealant, so they seal the cuticle down, making them a great heat protectant as well.

Best Hair Oils For Hair Growth

1. Castor Hair Oil:

Castor oil is rich in vitamin E, proteins, minerals. Its a very viscous oil and its hard to wash it off the hair, but that’s the only con. It works wonders on hair. Castor oil has anti-microbial properties, that will help you get rid of dandruff and other scalp issues. Castor oil contains ricinoleic acid which treats scalp inflammations and diseases. Castor oil moisturizes and softens hair, maintaining the moisture level in the hair. Castor oil aids in blood circulation and therefore results in faster hair growth. Since it is moisturizing in nature, it can be used to treat dry scalp. To use, apply it well on scalp and run through the hair, leave overnight, and wash it with a mild shampoo the next day. Regular use of castor oil gives you healthy, thick, shiny, and moisturized hair.

2. Bhringraj Hair Oil:

mahabhringraj+oil+bottle

Bhringraj oil is made from combining Eclipta alba or False Daisy with sesame oil. This oil helps in reducing hair fall, prevents premature greying, and also aids in faster hair growth. Regular use will give you healthy and long hair. Bhringraj is available in prepared form in ayurvedic shops, you can read review of one such oil here.

3. Olive Hair Oil:

Olive oil

Olive oil is a highly moisturizing hair oil, rich in vitamin E which is so important for hair growth. Olive oil has a high concentration of anti-oxidants which is good for both hair and skin. Olive oil is lightweight and contains oleic acid which easily penetrates the hair shaft and locks in the moisture. Olive oil is the best natural conditioner available and will give you touchably soft and smooth hair with regular use. Since this oil has anti-inflammatory properties, it helps in treating dandruff thereby reducing hair fall and aiding in subsequent hair growth.

4. Sesame Hair Oil:

Sack of sesame seeds and glass bottle of oil on mat

Sesame oil is used as a base oil in many ayurvedic preparations for hair growth, for example, bhringraj oil. Since sesame oil is anti-microbial, it treats a lot of scalp infections and fungal infections. Sesame is best when used as a hot oil treatment. It conditions hair, nourishes scalp, and gets rid of dandruff and the vitamin E in the oil boosts hair growth.

5. Argan Hair Oil:

Argan Oil

Argan oil is taking the beauty world by storm and why not, it is an excellent oil for healthy hair. It hydrates and moisturizes hair, it penetrates hair shafts and nourishes deeply. Argan oil is rich in anti-oxidants and repairs damaged hair. The high vitamin E and vitamin F content repairs damaged hair and makes the hair lustrous. Argan oil also treats split ends. It is known as “liquid gold” for its wonderful properties on hair and is absolutely great for hair damaged from heat styling.

6. Jojoba Hair Oil:

Jojoba oil

Jojoba oil is highly beneficial for both hair and skin because of its moisturizing and healing properties. Regular use of the oil makes hair lustrous and frizz free. Jojoba oil aids in hair growth by helping in the growth of new hair cells. It acts against dandruff and thus reduces hair fall.

7. Coconut Hair Oil:

Coconut oil

It’s the best hair oil and gives healthy, soft, and lustrous hair. Coconut oil is a natural conditioner rich in vitamin E and antioxidants which repairs damaged hair. Coconut oil is known to penetrate into hair follicles and stimulating hair growth and moisturizes dry hair. Coconut oil makes hair softer and prevents hair breakage and split ends. Also, when herbs like bhringa, brahmi, curry leaves, and other ayurvedic ingredients are added to coconut oil, it becomes a miracle oil that cures all hair issues and makes hair grow faster in a short period of time.

How do you get thick hair?

There are a lot of upsides to having fine hair or thin hair: It dries almost instantly, it's easy to fasten into updos, and it doesn't require much product. But if your hair is on the finer side, rocking a voluminous blowout or bouncy curls can be a struggle. Instead of major body, finer hair can often appear flatter and have less movement. While achieving the illusion of thick hair may feel like an impossible task, it's totally doable with the right styling techniques, hair care products, and lifestyle changes. Below are eight easy ways to help hair look fuller, thicker, and healthier overall.

About the Expert:

Philip B is a scalp expert and founder of Philip B Hair Care.

8 Easy Ways To Get Thicker Hair At Home:

1. Use a volumizing shampoo or thickening shampoo.

“If you are looking to add volume to your hair, start with a volumizing shampoo as the foundation,” says Augsten. “Volumizing shampoos are going to help fatten and swell the hair cuticle to create a more airy feel and look of the hair.”

Volumizing shampoos and thickening shampoos can both help to make hair look fuller overall, however, the two products work in different ways and produce slightly different results. The biggest difference to note is that thickening shampoos focus on individual strands of hair, while volumizing shampoos focus more on the roots. Thickening shampoos work by infusing the hair with proteins, vitamins, polymers, and/or moisture that plump up each strand making each piece appear thicker. This is ideal for boosting thickness in fine hair types.

Volumizing shampoos focus more on adding lift to the roots. They do this by helping to break down build-up around the scalp and infusing the hair with invigorating ingredients like caffeine, biotin, and meadowfoam seed oil.

Volumizing and thickening shampoos can be a great solution for both fine and thin hair, but just know that each will produce a slightly different result.

2. Reach for thickening hair products.

After you've used a specialized shampoo in the shower, double down on your mission to achieve full-bodied hair by also using hair thickening products like texture creams, texturizing spray, and thickening tonics.

Like thickening and volumizing shampoos, these products all work a little differently. A thickening cream that you apply to towel-dried hair will work similar to a thickening shampoo, plumping and coating individual strands to make them appear and feel thicker. A volumizing spray or volumizing dry shampoo is typically applied to dry roots to add texture, lift, and that little bit of oomph. Try using a thickening product on wet hair and finishing with a volumizing product on dry hair—this will help target both the roots and the hair shaft for a fuller effect.

Augsten suggests picking out products that are free of drying alcohols such as ethanol, SD alcohol, propyl alcohol, or isopropyl alcohol. “These products are used to fatten and swell the hair cuticle to appear fuller, but can be done with better ingredients that do not dry out and damage the hair,” she says. “Instead, look for volumizing products containing hydrolyzed oat protein and fatty alcohols such as cetyl or cetaryl. You should also avoid products that contain man-made silicones as they weigh the hair down.”

Need some guidance on how to pick out the right products? Check out our list of the best thickening hair products here.

3. Eat a hair-thickening diet.

Here's the hard truth: Little can be done to permanently change the diameter of individual hair strands. Thickening products can do wonders to temporarily plump hair strands, but when it comes down to it, fine hair is genetic and can't be changed.

However, doing what you can to promote healthy hair growth can make a difference. Making sure your scalp is happy, healthy, and well-nourished provides the perfect environment for all your hair to grow in strong and at its maximum potential. This can eventually help to create a fuller head of hair over time.

One easy way trichologists recommend for boosting hair growth is incorporating hair-nourishing foods into your diet that are linked to strong, healthy locks. Look for foods that are high in fatty acids, protein, and vitamins A, B, C, and E that are particularly effective for those actively experiencing hair loss.

4. Exfoliate your scalp.

If you're doing all the right things and your hair is still looking flat, your scalp could be the problem. Over time, products, shampoos, conditioners, and oils can create build up on the scalp, which can weigh down strands at the root. “When you exfoliate your scalp, you’re scrubbing away product and environmental build-up which creates a fresh, clean surface that is not weighed down.” Exfoliating is an easy way to provide natural lift for every strand.

If you're experiencing thinning hair, working an exfoliating scalp massage into your hair routine could make a big difference. This not only increases blood flow to the scalp to encourage growth, but it can also unclog hair follicles that are blocked from growing due to sebum and product build-up. Over time, hair thinning and overall hair health may improve.

Looking for some tips on exactly how to tackle scalp exfoliation? Follow our guide on how to exfoliate your scalp here.

5. Stay away from hot tools as much as possible.

Blow drying with a large round brush, using a curling iron, and diffusing the hair can all help hair appear fuller, but if you're using hot tools every day it can end up doing more harm than good. Hot tools are known to cause breakage–the enemy of thick, full hair. With less long locks to create body, it'll be even harder to create volume.

If you simply cannot go without hot tools, remember to always use the lowest heat setting that works for your hair and always use a heat protectant spray. If you’re blow drying hair, Augsten recommends drying the roots with a concentrator in the opposite direction of where you want the hair to fall to create lasting lift. She also likes to sprinkle in a little bit of volumizing hair powder at the root.

6. Wash hair in the morning.

“Since hair takes in moisture and nutrients, leave-in conditioner, cream [etc] and swells when it dries, it will look fuller and thicker after a morning styling rather than after a night’s sleep,” explains Philip B. Besides, tossing and turning all night long is one of the easiest ways to boost frizz and breakage — just start out fresh in the morning with a wash.

7. Use a cool air dryer.

Using a cool air dryer rather than a hot blow dryer is recommended, “but the key is the very lowest fan setting with a diffuser,” explains Philip B. “Avoid power along with heat for best results.” Even though this takes a bit longer than a traditional dry, it will help hair look fuller in the long run, he says.

8. Vote yes for Ayurvedic Massages.

Philip B is a fan of vigorous scalp massages — especially ayurvedic head massages. He says they’re perfect for “stimulation, circulation and oxygenation of the scalp supports healthy, vibrant, healthy hair growth.” If you really want to get ~wild~ with it, Philip B says headstands and inverted yoga poses can only help boost this stimulation.

Did these volume-boosting tips help you? Want in on all the IPSY Glam Bag fun? Take our Beauty Quiz now to get started. Already an Ipster? Refer your friends to earn points, which you can use toward products. Either way, don’t forget to check us out on Instagram and Twitter @IPSY.

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Does vinegar lighten hair?

Why use natural hair lighteners

People have been coloring their hair for centuries. In fact, highlighting hair can be traced all the way back to Ancient Greece in 4 B.C. Back then, they used olive oil, pollen, and gold flakes combined with hours in the sun.

Today, you can find many rapid bleaching kits at your local drug or beauty supply store to chemically achieve hair lightening. But with these kits come the risks of using chemicals on your hair such as:

stiff, brittle, or otherwise damaged hair

irritation of skin or eczema

irritation of airways or asthma

possibleTrusted Source link to certain cancers (bladder, breast, leukemia), though more researchTrusted Sourceon humans is needed

The good news is that, just like the Greeks, you can still try more natural methods to lighten or highlight your hair. These options may be better for a variety of reasons. They involve less exposure to chemicals, fewer opportunities for skin irritation, and many times, a much lower price tag.

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Lightening options

There are various ingredients you may have in your kitchen or bathroom that may be used to lighten your hair. You may want to experiment with different methods to see which works best for your hair color and type.

Lemon juice

The vitamin C in lemon juice may bleach hair without the use of chemicals. The blog GoingEvergreen explains that this method works best on naturally light or blonde shades.

Supplies you’ll need:

2 tablespoons lemon juice

1 cup water

Combine ingredients in a spray bottle. Apply to hair, concentrating on root areas. Let dry for a few hours in the sun. Rinse and condition your hair. You may also use lemon vodka in place of the lemon juice for more dramatic results.

Shop for lemon juice.

Chamomile

Vlogger Jessica Lee uses chamomile tea to make her brunette locks blonde. She notes that these ingredients are drying to the hair, so she recommends following up with a deep conditioning treatment.

Supplies you’ll need:

2 cups chamomile tea (strongly brewed with 5 tea bags)

1/4 cup lemon juice

Pour solution into a spray bottle and apply evenly to your hair from roots to tips. Stay out in the sun until your hair dries. Then rinse and consider following up with conditioner.

Shop for chamomile tea.

Apple cider vinegar

According to blogger Carlynn at JJBegonia, combining chamomile and apple cider vinegar works great to lighten locks naturally. She explains that apple cider vinegar helps to balance the pH of hair no matter the texture. And don’t worry — the vinegar scent will dissipate.

Supplies you’ll need:

1/4 cup chamomile tea

1/4 cup ACV

squeeze of lemon juice

Combine ingredients in a bowl or spray bottle. Saturate hair. Leave on as long as all day. Going out in the sun may help speed the lightening process. Rinse and style as usual.

Shop for apple cider vinegar.

Raw honey

Vlogger HolisticHabits uses honey for at-home highlights. She explains that the honey and cinnamon act as “natural hydrogen peroxide boosters.” Make sure you use raw honey because processed honey doesn’t contain the same level of active enzymes.

Supplies you’ll need:

1/4 cup raw honey

1/2 cup distilled water

1 tablespoon cinnamon

1 tablespoon olive oil

Combine ingredients and let sit for an hour. Apply to damp hair for a few hours to overnight. Scale the ingredients depending on how much hair you have (keep ratio fourtimes the amount of honey to cinnamon). You may need to go through this process 10or more times for dramatic results.

Shop for raw honey.

Cinnamon

Cinnamon alone may lighten hair. You’ll find this ingredient added to various other DIY hair “bleaching” recipes, but you may try using this ingredient on its own to achieve highlights and overall lightening.

Supplies you’ll need:

1/2 cup hair conditioner

2 tablespoons of ground cinnamon

Combine ingredients into a paste and apply to damp hair. Leave on for three to four hours or overnight, covering your head with a shower cap. Wash and style as usual.

Shop for ground cinnamon.

Honey and vinegar

Vlogger Sarah Williams claims that plain vinegar and honey can lighten hair in as little as 10 minutes. You can even apply this solution at night and sleep your way to natural highlights.

Supplies you’ll need:

2 cups white vinegar

1 cup raw honey

1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil

1 tablespoon ground cardamom or cinnamon

Combine ingredients and apply to damp hair. You may want to comb through your hair for more even distribution. Alternatively, you may apply only to sections where you want highlights.

Once applied, wrap your hair in plastic wrap or a shower cap. Leave on for 10 minutes up to overnight before rinsing.

Salt

Even plain table salt may help lighten locks. Popular blog Brit + Co. explains that a dip in the ocean and being in the sun all day is the easiest way to try this method.

Supplies you’ll need:

table salt

water

Mix ingredients in a half/half ratio. Leave on for at least 10 minutes, preferably when you’re outside. Rinse or leave in for a beachier texture.

Shop for sea salt.

Henna

Henna powder comes from a plant and has been used for thousands of years to stain leather or adorn skin with beautiful designs. Blogger Crunchy Betty explains it’s also used to dye hair naturally. Brunettes, particularly dark brown to black hair, may use it to achieve natural highlights or a change in tone.

Supplies you’ll need:

3 tablespoons henna powder

1/2 cup boiling water

Combine ingredients into a paste to sit overnight. Apply to hair for two to three hours. Cover hair with a shower cap to protect your scalp and clothing from being dyed. Then rinse and style.

Shop for henna.

Hydrogen peroxide

Several of the above methods rely on ingredients that naturally give a hydrogen peroxide effect. Using straight hydrogen peroxide is another option that may also provide more noticeable results to darker hair.

Supplies:

3 percent hydrogen peroxide solution

Wash and condition your hair. Let air dry till damp. Pour peroxide into a spray bottle and apply for 30 minutes to an hour, depending on how light you want your locks. Rinse with cold water and deep condition before styling.

Shop for hydrogen peroxide.

Baking soda and hydrogen peroxide

Another popular way to lighten your hair is a mixture of hydrogen peroxide and baking soda. Following in the footsteps of the “No Poo” haircare movement, mixing hydrogen peroxide and baking soda is believed to lighten your hair while keeping it healthy.

What you’ll need:

DIY HERBAL HAIR RINSES FOR HEALTHY HAIR!

1 1/2 teaspoons of 3 percent hydrogen peroxide

2 teaspoons aluminum-free baking soda

Combine ingredients into a paste. You may need to scale up this recipe depending on the length and thickness of your hair. Just keep the ratio the same. Apply to dry hair and leave on for between 15 minutes and an hour. Then rinse your hair and condition.

Shop for baking soda.

Precautions

Do a strand test before applying any natural lightener to your hair to check for irritation or allergic reaction and to ensure you are happy with the color.

To test:

Apply a small amount of your desired lightener to a section of hair. Choose a section that’s underneath the top layer in case you don’t like the results.

Keep the lightener on your hair for the suggested amount of time.

Then rinse and look for any reactions to your skin or otherwise.

You’ll also want to evaluate the level of lightness and overall color to see if you like the results.

Keep in mind that while chemicals like bleach can damage your hair, many of the at-home methods may also dry your hair out or temporarily affect its condition. Use a deep conditioner to keep your hair moisturized and manageable. This is especially true if you plan to follow a method more than once to achieve more highlights over time.

Many of these highlighting tips suggest sitting outside for long periods of time to get the added bleaching benefit of the sun. Be sure to protect your skin by wearing a quality sunscreen.

The bottom line

DIY methods may be better than bleach or commercial products if you’re looking for a gentler way to achieve lighter strands. The results you see won’t necessarily be as dramatic as with chemical processes, but they may be better for your hair and overall health. If you do choose to use chemicals, consider heading to a salon and letting professionals guide the process.

What happens if you put too much apple cider vinegar in your hair?

Earlier, apple cider vinegar (ACV) was considered a folk remedy of sorts for all kinds of health problems. But now ACV is being feted the world over for its myriad benefits not only for our health, but also for our skin and hair. In fact, apple cider vinegar can work wonders for our Hair - right from preventing hair loss to fighting split ends. How? Read on.

Apple cider vinegar benefits for hair

1. What Is The Basic Process Of Making Apple Cider Vinegar?

2. Can Apple Cider Vinegar Boost Hair Growth?

3. How Can Apple Cider Vinegar Help In Combating Dandruff?

4. How Can Consuming Apple Cider Vinegar Keep Your Hair Healthy?

5. Can Apple Cider Vinegar Tame Frizzy Hair?

6. Are There Any Side Effects Of Apple Cider Vinegar?

7. FAQs: Apple Cider Vinegar For Your Hair

1. What Is The Basic Process Of Making Apple Cider Vinegar?

To put it simply, apple cider vinegar is extracted from fermented apples. Take sliced up apples, water and sugar and add yeast and bacteria to it while keeping the mixture at room temperature over a certain period of time. Yeast and bacteria are essential for kick-starting the fermentation process. Basically, sugar is converted into alcohol first. Then this alcohol turns into vinegar, thanks to the presence of acetic acid-making bacteria. A cocktail of acetic acid and malic acid gives ACV its sour or vinegary taste.

Process of Making Apple cider vinegar benefit for hair

2. Can Apple Cider Vinegar Boost Hair Growth?

Experts say that apple cider vinegar can help you prevent hair loss. But there isn't any concrete scientific research on this yet. However, it is widely believed that ACV can facilitate a smoother blood circulation thereby boosting hair growth. This is because ACV contains a whole host of nutrients that are essential for hair growth. Take potassium and Vitamin B, which can help in smoother blood circulation. Regularly rinsing your hair with ACV can strengthen your hair and protect it against UV rays and various pollutants in the air. Strong hair means less hair loss. But, of course, don't expect ACV to be a panacea for all kinds of hair loss. To effectively treat hair fall, you need to know what type of hair loss you are coping with. For instance, do you have telogen effluvium? The latter is a type of hair loss that is triggered by stress or a traumatic event in your life. For instance, a major disruption in your life, such as bereavement or separation, can lead to uncontrollable hair loss for some time. If this persists for more than six months, then it's called chronic telogen effluvium. But this is not a permanent condition and can be reversed, with proper hair fall treatment. Then there's something called female pattern baldness. The bad news is, this is hereditary. In fact, female pattern baldness is very common, especially among post-menopausal women. Hair starts thinning on the scalp as the follicles start shrinking with age and other factors. Therefore, you need to consult a hair expert and then decide on a method of anti-hair loss treatment. But, generally speaking, do keep ACV as part of your hair growth boosting strategy. Here are some DIY hair masks with ACV that can help you contain hair loss:

ACV + Greek Yogurt + Honey

Greek yogurt will ensure a protein boost, while apple cider vinegar will cleanse your scalp and hair, and honey will help seal in moisture. Mix 1 cup yogurt, 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar and 1 tbsp honey and apply this mix from roots to tips. Keep for 15 minutes before washing off with a mild shampoo.

Apple cider vinegar and Fenugreet benefits for hair

ACV + Fenugreek

Take 1 tsp of ACV and a 1 tsp of fenugreek seeds. Soak the seeds overnight in water. Make a thick paste with the mashed seeds and ACV. Apply the mask on your hair and wash your tresses after an hour with warm water. This will ensure a thicker mop of hair if you follow this procedure once a week.

ACV + Coconut oil + Baking soda

Take 1 tsp of ACV, half tsp of baking soda and 3 tsps of coconut oil. Mix the ingredients and apply the mask on your scalp and hair. Wait for an hour or so before washing your hair off with a mild shampoo. This mask can curb thinning of hair. Apply once a week.

ACV + Olive oil

Take 4 teaspoons of olive oil and one teaspoon of apple cider vinegar and mix together. Make sure that these two ingredients are thoroughly mixed. Apply this mixture generously on your tresses and scalp. Massage gently. Wait for an hour or so and then shampoo off. You can use this DIY hair mask once a week as this will make your hair stronger and shinier.

Apple cider vinegar and Olive Oil benefits for Hair

ACV + Rosemary

Take 3 tbsps each of apple cider vinegar and water and mix them together. Add to this mix 2 tablespoons of aloe vera juice, one tbsp of rosemary oil and one tsp of honey. Mix all the ingredients together. Massage this on to your hair and scalp. Wait for about 45 minutes and then shampoo off with cold water. This mask will not only boost hair growth, but will also add some extra shine to your crowning glory.

ACV + Beer

Both beer and apple cider vinegar can cleanse your hair and scalp by driving away grease and grime. Combine equal parts of ACV and beer so that the mixture can fill a cup to the brim. Slowly pour on your head and using your fingers, work this mix on to your hair and scalp. Let it stay for 15 minutes and rinse thoroughly with plain water for shine and volume.

Apple cider vinegar and Beer benefits for hair

3. How Can Apple Cider Vinegar Help In Combating Dandruff?

Apple cider vinegar has anti-microbial and anti-inflammatory properties. It also removes residue or product build-up from hair roots. The slightly astringent nature of ACV helps kill the infection-causing microbes, hence controlling itchy scalp and dandruff while balancing the pH of the hair. It has two ingredients that are known for their efficacy in killing dandruff. One is Vitamin C and the other is acetic acid. Vitamin C is known for fighting harmful free radicals and dandruff. Acetic acid can help in ridding your hair of harmful chemicals, germs and bacteria. Just massage your scalp and hair roots with ACV. Then shampoo your hair off after 20 minutes or so. But this basic ACV anti-dandruff treatment may not be all you need to fight such severe forms of dandruff as Seborrheic dermatitis. Basically, it’s an itchy, red rash with concomitant white or yellow flakes - this condition can affect not only our scalp, but also our face and other parts of our torso. Seborrheic dermatitis is also linked to a fungus called Malassezia, which can be found on the scalp and they normally feast on oils secreted by hair follicles. If the fungi become too active, dandruff can be a painful outcome. In that case, you need to consult a doctor. But do keep ACV as part of your hair care routine if you have a persistent dandruff problem. Here are some hair masks that can also help:

Apple cider vinegar and Aloe Vera benefits for hair

ACV + Aloe Vera

Mix one cup of fresh aloe vera gel, one teaspoon of honey and two teaspoons of apple cider vinegar. Mix well and apply generously to your hair and scalp. Let it rest for 20 minutes and shampoo regularly. Do this twice a month and get rid of that embarrassing dandruff.

ACV + Lemon

Combine half a cup of apple cider vinegar with the grated peel of a lemon. Apply on your scalp and leave it on for 20 minutes. This will help the mix absorb excess oil from your scalp. Rinse off with water.

Apple cider vinegar benefits for hair

ACV + Fuller's Earth

Slowly add ACV to half a cup of fuller’s earth. Make a thick paste. Add a few drops of lemon juice and mix well. Cover your hair fully with this mask. You can rinse with water or you can shampoo it off.

4. How Can Consuming Apple Cider Vinegar Keep Your Hair Healthy?

Hair problems can also stem from ill health. So you need to look after your health as well as a primary step to combating tress travails. For instance, constant ill health can lead to substantive hair loss. Various studies have shown that if you keep ACV as part of your health regimen, you can get rid of several ailments. Take high blood sugar levels. You need to keep your blood sugar under control in order to avoid health complications that can affect your kidneys, eyes, nerves and heart. Some studies have shown that taking ACV, ideally before meals, can monitor sugar levels. In fact, research has shown that consuming ACV for about 3 months can lower sugar levels. Other studies have shown that consumption of ACV alongside low calorie diet can control even cholesterol; research shows that continued consumption of ACV can help in raising HDL or good cholesterol levels that are actually beneficial to your heart.

Apple Cider Vinegar Benefit for Hair Problems

5. Can Apple Cider Vinegar Tame Frizzy Hair?

Of course, it can. Packed with nutrients, apple cider vinegar untangles and flattens frizzy hair. How? Normally, frizzy hair tends to be more alkaline in nature. In other words, frizzy hair can have a higher pH level. Since we all know that apple cider vinegar contains acetic acid and can be considered a low pH level liquid, it can help in countering the alkaline levels and bringing down the pH level in your hair. And by doing so, it seals hair cuticles, making frizzy tresses look flat.

Here’s how you can make an apple cider vinegar and water mix that can come in handy every time frizziness gives you a bad hair day:

ACV + Water

Mix half to four tablespoons of ACV with 250 ml of water. Keep the mixture in a plastic squeeze bottle or a spray bottle or any other container. After shampooing, apply the vinegar rinse. Pour, squirt or spray the rinse on to wet hair. Massage your hair and scalp and pay special attention to the ends. Let it sit for a couple minutes and rinse it all out.

Apple Cider Vinegar Benefits for Tame Frizzy Hair

6. Are There Any Side Effects Of Apple Cider Vinegar?

ACV contains acetic acid, which is a mild acid, true. But too much of ACV can lead to some problems. For instance, if you use undiluted apple cider vinegar on your scalp for a long stretch of time, it can cause irritation or even burns, particularly if you have sensitive skin. If you consume an inordinate quantity of ACV, especially if it's undiluted, it can lead to digestive issues and dental problems. What's more, it can create an imbalance in potassium levels. So, if you are still unsure, consult a doctor and a hair expert before you opt for apple cider vinegar.

FAQs: Apple Cider Vinegar For Your Hair

Q. How can you go for an apple cider vinegar rinse?

A. Some people may prefer to use raw apple cider vinegar as a hair rinse. But avoid it. Dilute ACV with water and then spritz it on your hair after you shampoo your tresses. Make sure that this rinse doesn't come in contact with your eyes. For maximum shine, add a bit of baking soda to the spritz mix.

Q. What kind of an apple cider vinegar should I buy?

A. Ideally, you should buy the organic variety because it can be free of harmful chemicals and pesticides. Experts say that you can also look for a raw and unpasteurised variety. In other words, avoid buying commercial varieties of apple cider vinegar.

Apple Cider Vinegar Food for Hair Growth

Q. What are the best foods for hair growth?

A. If you don’t take a proper diet, your hair can get affected. Apart from laying down a cleansing, oiling and masking routine for your hair, you need to watch what you are eating to boost hair growth. For instance, certain nutrients such as protein, Vitamin C, Vitamin B12, biotin, Omega 3 fatty acids, iron and Vitamin E are good for promoting hair growth. Vitamin C is needed because it's an effective antioxidant. What's more, our body needs vitamin C to make collagen that is a vital component of hair strength. The vitamin is a great help when it comes to absorbing iron and as we all know, iron is absolutely essential for hair health. And apple cider vinegar is rich in vinegar. So, consult a dietitian first and then opt for a diet that contains eggs (protein and biotin), leafy vegetables (iron), nuts and seeds (Omega 3 fatty acids), avocado (Vitamin E), citrus foods and apple cider vinegar (Vitamin C and Vitamin B) and whole grains and meat (Vitamin B).

Is apple cider vinegar good for your scalp?

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If you're only using apple cider vinegar for your salad dressings, you're missing out. The pantry staple really can do it all. Clogged drain? Try pouring a little down the sink with baking soda. Breaking out? Make a DIY face mask using ACV and bentonite clay.

And in case you haven't heard, it can also make a good addition to your hair care routine. Experts say that apple cider vinegar has a host of benefits for your hair and scalp, ranging from relieving itchiness to improving the look of your locks. Below, we asked two top dermatologists to break down everything you need to know about the ingredient.

The benefits of apple cider vinegar for your hair

"If you have an oily scalp, you’re prone to dandruff or you’re using hair products that accumulate in the hair, all of those things will make apple cider vinegar a potentially good option for you," said Dr. Hadley King, a board-certified dermatologist and clinical instructor of dermatology at Cornell University.

It has both antibacterial and antifungal properties so it can help with common scalp conditions caused by those factors, like dandruff, acne or folliculitis, King said. "It also has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, so those can be beneficial," she added. "And because of the acidic pH, it can help to remove product buildup by gentle exfoliation."

For the same reason, the ingredient can help restore the pH balance of your scalp, said Dr. Debra Jaliman, a board-certified dermatologist in New York City. The natural pH of your scalp is around five, but things like sun exposure, dyeing your hair and certain chemicals can throw that number off. And when that happens, it can make your hair dry and porous and lead to itchiness, which is why maintaining a proper balance is important.

On top of all that, the ingredient can also help make your hair smoother and shinier, Jaliman said.

How to create an apple cider vinegar hair rinse

Bragg Organic Apple Cider Vinegar

$5.99

TARGET

$5.29

$6.99

THRIVE MARKET

$5.67

WALMART

One of the most affordable ways to reap all of those benefits is to make your own rinse at home with a bottle of apple cider vinegar. In order to do that, you'll need to dilute it, Jaliman said. Combine 1 to 2 tablespoons of ACV with one 1 cup of water. Rinse your hair with the concoction post-shampoo on wash days.

Because apple cider vinegar can be drying, King recommends following the rinse with a hair mask, conditioner or leave-in conditioner to add moisture.

That being said, both dermatologists agreed that using a product that features the ingredient is the easiest way to go about it. Here, we asked the experts to share some of their top picks, and we found a handful of bestsellers that you can try as well.

Best apple cider vinegar hair products

dpHUE Apple Cider Vinegar Hair Rinse

$35.00

AMAZON

$35.00

ULTA

While you can go the DIY route, Jaliman said that you’re probably better off buying a pre-made rinse, like this one from dpHUE. Not only will it save you some time, but many include additional hydrating ingredients that you wouldn’t get in your at-home formula. With this one, for example, your hair will get a boost of moisture from aloe and glycerin.

dpHUE Apple Cider Vinegar Hair Rinse LITE

$35.00

DPHUE

$35.00

SEPHORA

$35.00

ULTA

If you have fine hair, you can get all the same benefits while keeping your locks from feeling too heavy with this lighter version of the rinse. The new formula uses fewer conditioning agents to prevent thin hair from feeling weighed down.

Pureology Vinegar Hair Rinse

$21.00

WALMART

This rinse, which is another pick from Jaliman, is also a good option for anyone who wants to skip the extra steps of an at-home formula. It can be used up to two times per week after you shampoo to remove buildup and add softness and shine to your locks.

Aveeno Apple Cider Vinegar Sulfate-Free Shampoo

$6.97

$8.99

AMAZON

$6.99

TARGET

$6.97

WALMART

Jaliman also likes this affordable shampoo from Aveeno. It’s made with apple cider vinegar and soothing oatmeal extract to help cleanse your hair and scalp.

Re-Fresh Anti-Dandruff Shampoo Apple Cider Vinegar

$6.98

WALMART

This formula not only contains apple cider vinegar but also has 2 percent salicylic acid, King said. "So it’s going to exfoliate and have anti-inflammatory and anti-microbial properties and moisturizing ingredients, which are going to help keep the scalp and hair from getting dried out. It’s a good combination."

Re-Fresh Anti-Dandruff Conditioner Apple Cider Vinegar

$6.98

WALMART

$6.98

VITACOST

Both the shampoo and conditioner are free of silicones and parabens and are safe for color-treated hair, King said. "The conditioner also contains coconut oil, so it's good for smoothing and moisturizing."

The Only video you need to watch about Apple Cider Vinegar Hair Rinsing.

MAJESTIC PURE Apple Cider Vinegar Shampoo

$14.98

$16.98

AMAZON

Jaliman likes this shampoo because it’s made with moisturizing ingredients like coconut oil and avocado oil so it’s a good pick for people with dry hair. It’s gentle enough for daily use and won’t fade color-treated hair.

WOW Apple Cider Vinegar Shampoo and Conditioner Set

WOW Apple Cider Vinegar Shampoo and Conditioner

$26.85

$34.99

AMAZON

$26.85

$34.95

WALMART

This shampoo and conditioner duo is an Amazon shopper favorite with more than 35,000 five-star reviews. In fact, it’s so popular that at one point, the brand sold more than 80,000 units of the cleansing hair set in just one day.

One Shop TODAY writer who tried it out said she was “wowed by the results.” After using, she said that she noticed less breakage and didn’t need to use as much dry shampoo because her roots weren’t as oily. The shampoo cleans and clarifies your hair with apple cider vinegar and then the conditioner hydrates thanks to ingredients like coconut and avocado oil.

OUAI Detox Shampoo

$30.00

OUAI

$30.00

SEPHORA

$30.00

ULTA

Hairstylist Lauren Baxter previously told Shop TODAY that she starts her shower routine with this detoxifying shampoo. According to the brand, the concentrated formula with apple cider vinegar washes away dirt, oil and buildup from products and hard water deposits to leave your hair feeling ultra-clean and fresh.

PURA D'OR Apple Cider Vinegar Thin2Thick Shampoo & Conditioner Set

PURA D'OR Apple Cider Vinegar Thin2Thick Set

$25.99

$29.99

AMAZON

$25.99

$39.99

WALMART

With biotin, keratin, apple cider vinegar and caffeine, this shampoo and conditioner set deeply cleanses and nourishes your hair, so your locks will look and feel healthier after every wash.

For more stories like this, check out:

How to take care of your hair before and after a workout, according to fitness lovers

I tried the $40 straightening brush from Drew Barrymore's beauty brand, and I'm obsessed

After using this biotin shampoo, my hair has volume that I haven’t seen in years

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Does apple cider vinegar stop hair loss?

Apple cider vinegar has never been so popular and is credited with all manner of health benefits, from aiding weight loss to stabilizing blood sugar levels.

Some advocates claim that apple cider vinegar (ACV) deserves a place in everyone’s hair care routine, thanks to its powers to relieve a variety of scalp conditions, including flaking, dandruff, and psoriasis. Others have said it can boost hair growth.

Fast facts on apple cider vinegar:

The use of vinegar to fight infection dates back to Hippocrates (460-337 BC) who recommended a vinegar preparation for ulcers and sores.

ACV has been shown to have microbial properties when used in food, but experts advise against its use for wounds.

There are many claims that using ACV on the scalp stimulates blood flow, which may boost hair growth, though there is little firm evidence of this.

Few studies have looked at the use of ACV specifically, but there are some that have looked at the use of vinegar for certain situations.

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What is apple cider vinegar?

It is suggested that ACV on the scalp may stimulate blood flow.

Vinegar can be made from most sources of carbohydrate. It results from fermentation where the sugars in a food are broken down by bacteria and yeast.

These sugars are turned into alcohol by yeast and then Acetobacter bacteria covert the alcohol into acetic acid, which is vinegar.

Apple cider vinegar (ACV) is made by fermenting pulverized or smashed up apples.

Effectiveness for hair growth

Health and beauty blogs have claimed the benefits of an ACV rinse for hair growth, although it must be remembered that there is very little published research on this.

Much of the excitement about ACV is based on anecdotal evidence or studies that look at vinegar in general. The claims center on people using an ACV as a rinse on their hair.

According to experts from the United Kingdom’s hair loss treatment specialist the Belgravia Centre, there is little to substantiate the claims:

“No matter what you do with it, ACV will not cure or treat hair loss. The reason it is often linked with hair care is because it is an ancient remedy for making hair shine and treating dandruff that is said to have been favoured by the Romans.

“The only real benefit we are aware of is that ACV can be a good clarifying hair rinse as it helps to remove all traces of product buildup on your scalp. Buildup left behind by styling products or shampoo can clog the follicles, leading to scalp conditions such as dandruff, and – in extreme cases – may also cause hair loss.”

Other hair-related claims for ACV include:

ACV helps to rebalance hair and scalp pH levels

ACV may help to maintain the pH balance in hair.

Hair has an ideal pH level of between 4 and 5, but many commercial shampoos may disrupt this.

While there is no evidence to back this up, a 2014 studyTrusted Source looking at the pH of shampoos on the market found that the high alkalinity of many brands contributes to hair friction, breakage, and dryness.

Because ACV has a high acidity, it follows that it could help maintain the pH balance, thus making hair smoother, stronger, and shinier.

ACV smooths hair cuticles

It has been suggested that ACV’s natural acidity helps to smooth down the cuticle of a person’s hair.

This, it is claimed, encourages knots and tangles to slip out and reduces the frizz associated with lifted cuticles. It also means hair may be better able to reflect light, giving it a more glossy, healthy glow.

ACV treats dandruff and itchy, dry scalps

It has been suggested also that vinegar can help in the fight against dandruff and scalp conditions.

Some dermatologists have said ACV’s anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties may combat the yeast and irritation that lead to the build-up of dead skin cells, flakes, and itching.

While is it well documented that ACV is antimicrobial, there are no studies to back up the claim that it can fight scalp conditions. ACV has not been tested as a treatment for dandruff.

ACV can add natural body and define curls

Bloggers have claimed that an ACV rinse might help people with curly hair achieve a bounce in their hair. The thinking behind this is that the vinegar does not weigh down individual strands of hair as conventional shampoos and conditioners might.

This claim is supported by anecdotal evidence only.

Safety

ACV has been used to clean surfaces for many years.

Vinegar has been used to flavor and preserve food, heal wounds, fight infections, and clean surfaces for more than 2,000 years.

There are rare reports, however, of adverse reactions when someone has consumed a lot of vinegar.

For example, a 28-year-old woman who reportedly consumed approximately 250 milliliters of ACV a day for 6 years, developed hypokalemia or low levels of potassium in the blood.

Nevertheless, there is no evidence that using an ACV rinse externally is unsafe.

How do I make and use an ACV rinse?

To make an ACV rinse, a person should mix between 2 and 4 tablespoons of ACV with 16 ounces of cool water in a plastic bottle.

After shampooing and rinsing the hair, the head should be tipped back and the mixture poured over the entire scalp. It should then be left for 1 to 2 minutes before being rinsed off thoroughly. Avoiding contact with the eyes is recommended so as not to cause irritation.

Benefits of vinegar

Investigations have shown that diluted vinegar can be effective for the treatment of some ear infections, including. However, the low pH of the mixture may irritate the skin and damage the outer hair cells of the ear.

In some countries, applying vinegar to the site of a jellyfish sting followed by immersion in hot water is considered an effective treatment.

Studies on whether vinegar helps to lower blood pressure have been inconclusive, but there is a growing body of evidence that vinegar may have antiglycemic properties. If this were to be true, ACV might have a role in reducing high blood sugar levels in people with diabetes.

Do you put apple cider vinegar on wet or dry hair?

If the thought of using an apple cider vinegar hair rinse seems a bit out there, I totally get it. Before I added apple cider vinegar to my hair care routine (using this raw apple cider vinegar), I was a bit skeptical to say the least. The last thing I wanted to do was walk around with apple cider vinegar hair.

But, after doing a lot of research on the benefits of apple cider vinegar for hair and skin, I decided to take the plunge. I first ditched my conventional toner for a DIY apple cider vinegar facial toner and was blown away with the results. I also began researching more about the harmful ingredients in conventional makeup and skin care products, and it really opened my eyes. As I started working on switching out my cosmetic products to safer ones, my skin completely changed and my hormonal acne and blemishes disappeared.

Soon after, I started experimenting with applying an apple cider vinegar hair rinse. Truthfully, when I was experimenting with my ACV rinse recipe, there was absolutely no information available. I started from scratch, and spent months perfecting the formula.

Now, apple cider vinegar is one of my favorite ways to keep my skin and hair on point. And while there are many benefits to apple cider vinegar—both internally and topically, one of my favorite uses is this hair rinse.

Why do an Apple Cider Vinegar Hair Rinse?

To give you enough confidence to pour apple cider vinegar on your head, here’s the basics on how it all works.

Your hair is actually a two-part structure consisting of a follicle and a shaft. Just below the surface of the skin are sebaceous glands, which secrete sebum through the hair follicle. This oil lubricates your hair and skin, and is part of the acid mantle. Your acid mantle is a very fine, slightly acidic film that maintains and protects the overall health of the hair and skin.

Your acid mantle has a big impact on the appearance of your hair. The outer layer of the shaft, also known as the cuticle, is compromised of tightly packed overlapping scales. The acid mantle is instrumental in making cuticle scales lie flat, which gives hair a shiny, smooth appearance and protects from moisture loss.

Unfortunately, this system can be easily disrupted. If you’ve ever had a bad hair day, it’s probably because of disruptions to your acid mantle. The acid mantle typically has a pH of around 5, which means it is slightly acidic. Many hair care products, treatments, and some shampoos are more alkaline (have a pH above 7), which can contaminate or remove the acid mantle.

the difference between a healthy hair cuticle and a damaged cuticle, which can be improved by an apple cider vinegar hair rinse

The Anatomy of a Bad Hair Day

When the acid mantle becomes alkaline, hair swells and the scales on the cuticle open. This leaves your hair susceptible to breakage. It also results in frizzy, brittle hair which has a “dull” appearance due to the fact that the hair is absorbing light instead of reflecting it. Hooray picture day!

The acid mantle can also be disrupted by other factors, including stress, diet, and sweat. So, proactively restoring our hair to its natural pH and maintaining the acid mantle is crucial for strong, healthy hair.

Why Raw Apple Cider Vinegar?

Raw (or unfiltered) apple cider vinegar is simply the by-product of the fermentation of apples. Apples are loaded with potassium, pectin, malic acid and calcium. Fermentation fortifies the end product with even more beneficial acids and enzymes. Raw apple cider vinegar leaves all of the nutrients in the vinegar, which is why it’s the preferred option over pasteurized apple cider vinegar.

Because apple cider vinegar has pH of around 3, when properly diluted with water, it helps to balance the pH of your hair, leading to many happy hair days.

The Benefits of Apple Cider Vinegar For Hair

Apple cider vinegar has many positive benefits. When you dilute it properly and apply a rinse regularly, you’ll start to notice some pretty profound shifts in how your hair looks and responds.

Gorgeous, Frizz-Free Hair: Apple cider vinegar is packed with nutrients that are great for building luscious locks, including B vitamins, vitamin C, and potassium. Because it is slightly acidic, it also serves to restore the natural pH of the acid mantle. Exposure to this acidity hardens the outer layer of the hair and flattens the cuticle, resulting in hair that shines, slides easily, and is less prone to tangling or snagging.

Clears Out Product Build-Up: Apple cider vinegar also contains natural alpha-hydroxy acid, which gently exfoliates the scalp and hair, allowing for removal of dead skin cells and build up that can occur from sweat and/or conventional hair products. This improves the appearance of the hair, reduces itchiness, and allows for better styling.

Restores Balance and Reduces Dandruff: For those who experience scalp-related conditions such as dandruff, apple cider vinegar can bring relief because of its anti-viral, anti-fungal, and anti-bacterial properties. In addition to being antimicrobial, apple cider vinegar is also anti-inflammatory, which can counteract the skin inflammation that typically occurs with dandruff and a dry, flaky scalp.

a bottle of raw apple cider vinegar, which can be mixed to create a hair rinse

How Do I Use ACV For Hair Care?

While it may seem a little odd at first, apple cider vinegar can fit right into your normal hair care routine. Just do this quick and easy hair rinse once a week to experience the benefits.

First, mix three tablespoons of apple cider vinegar with 1 3/4 cups of water. If you have more oily hair or scalp issues like dandruff, go ahead and use four tablespoons of apple cider vinegar. (Head’s up: four tablespoons is 1/4 cup, so that makes the measurements easy!)

Lean your head back and pour the rinse over your head, working it into your scalp. Be careful to avoid contact with your eyes.

Let the mixture sit on your hair for 1-2 minutes. Then, just rinse the apple cider vinegar out of your hair. When your hair dries, it will look beautiful and won’t smell like apple cider vinegar!

Can I Use Apple Cider Vinegar If I Have Color Treated Hair?

Yes! The experts agree that apple cider vinegar is safe for all hair types, including color-treated hair. If you have color treated hair anshuttd want to remove buildup (but not your gorgeous color), ACV is the perfect fit!

Tips + Tricks

The specific amount of apple cider vinegar you use in the recipe may vary depending on your individual needs. If you have very sensitive skin, start with three tablespoons. Work your way up to four tablespoons if you aren’t experiencing results.

As a general rule of thumb, dry hair will do better with less apple cider vinegar, while those with oily hair or scalp issues such as dandruff will do better with more apple cider vinegar.

Treat this rinse like a treatment, so start by applying it once a week. You can up it to twice a week if it works well for your scalp. If you have drier hair, you may find you do best applying this hair rinse 1-2x a month.

The best way to mix up the recipe is to pour the ingredients into a 16 oz plastic squeeze bottle. You can also do this in a large silicone pourable measuring cup. Just buy a set for your shower!

After you rinse out the apple cider vinegar and your hair dries, it will no longer smell like apple cider vinegar.

If your hair is shoulder length or shorter, you can reduce your overall rinse by half. So, use 1 cup of cool water and 1-2 tablespoons of apple cider vinegar.

After you rinse out the apple cider vinegar, apply conditioner to the ends of your hair just like you normally do.

Did you make this? Be sure to leave a review below and tag me on Instagram, Facebook or Pinterest!

★★★★★

5 from 15 reviews

Apple Cider Vinegar Hair Rinse

This super easy apple cider vinegar hair rinse can provide many benefits for the hair and scalp. Not only does it promote strong and healthy hair, it also can help reduce scalp issues like dandruff, and remove the build up that can occur on the hair and scalp from cosmetic products.

Prep: 2

Total: 2 minutes

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Servings: 1

Ingredients

3–4 tablespoons raw apple cider vinegar

1 ¾ cups cool water

2–3 drops lavender oil (optional)

Instructions

Shampoo your hair. Rinse with warm water.

Mix the apple cider vinegar, water, and essential oil (optional) together in a 16 oz plastic squirt bottle or large cup.

Lean your head back and pour the rinse over your head, working it into your scalp. Be careful to avoid contact with your eyes.

Let the mixture sit on your hair for 1-2 minutes.

I Start the Curly Girl Method... again (but properly).

Rinse the apple cider vinegar throughly out of your hair.

What does apple cider vinegar do to gray hair?

Learning to take care of gray hair works wonders on the look, feel and texture of your silver locks. There are so many ways to care for your hair that will keep wiry, unruly and frizzy aspects of gray hair to a minimum, while boosting the shiny, lustrous and luminous experience of going gray.

Here are some tricks that we love for natural maintenance and care for your gray hair:

1) Moisture:

Gray hair tends to be more dry, so sealing in moisture is a crucial first step. Don’t over shampoo, as this strips the hair of natural oils from the scalp that moisturize your locks. Shampooing your hair 1-3 times per week should be perfect. Make sure you are using very moisturizing conditioner, and perhaps include a weekly hair mask in your regimen. Seal in moisture after the shower with a good leave-in conditioner, hair oil or moisture serum. This will calm unruly hair and soften your strands. We recommend Phytovitamin Tonic, a vitamin and nutrient concentrate made from a spagyrically processed blend of herbs that helps to balance scalp oils. Dry scalps and hair will be replenished with naturally occurring oils that are often removed by hair cleansing, bleaching, coloring, perming and from normal daily exposure to the sun and elements.

2) Apple Cider Vinegar Rinse:

This is a great option if your hair could use a pick-me-up but it’s not shampoo day – a great way to attain silky clean hair without the suds. We recommend one tablespoon in a liter of water as a periodic rinse. Another option is to mix a bit of apple cider vinegar into a dollop of shampoo. This clears build up from environmental toxins and hair products. It also seals the hair cuticle, making your grays silky, shiny and frizz-free.

3) Blending Grays:

Naturcolor is an herbal-based permanent hair color gel designed to change or enhance existing hair color while blending in gray. It is designed for those who are ecologically minded, as well as those that may be coloring their hair for the first time. This is a great option for those who are looking to blend rather than cover their natural hair, embracing beautiful grays while also getting creative with color at home. Find your perfect color using our color finder.

The “N” (Natural) Series was specially formulated with the strongest pigments to “cover” gray. If your goal is to cover gray, begin with the choice of a color in the “N” series. The other color groups (C, M, R, D) are made with lighter pigments. They will color in a more transparent effect and are also designed to be mixed with the “N” Series when special custom tints or highlights are desired.

4) Supplements:

Make sure to eat a well-balanced diet, rich in nutrients, protein, vitamins and minerals so that your body has the resources that it needs to grow lustrous, healthy hair. Supplements like fish oil, Vitamin E, biotin, zinc and collagen can help hair to grow fast, luminous and strong. Hydration is the final ingredient your hair truly requires for growth and moisture. Most of us are under hydrated. A good rule of thumb is to drink at least half, or even all of your body weight in ounces (i.e. a 140 lb person would drink 70-140 ounces of water per day).

5) Styling:

Make sure to brush gray hair every day in order to distribute scalp oils down to the hair ends. Be careful not to over-style gray hair as it can lose strength and elasticity fairly easily. Try to avoid using too much heat, as it may cause damage.

A good protein treatment every 4 to 8 weeks can work wonders on damage control if you love heat styling and don’t want to give it up. A protein treatment is a conditioner that binds proteins to the hair cuticle, to make up for any proteins that may get stripped away via heat or chemical styling. Adding protein to your hair regimen helps the hair to maintain elasticity, structure and integrity. There are many pre-made protein treatments out there, or you can try some DIY protein treatment recipes at home.

Embrace Your Beautiful Grays!

Self expression is the best part of having beautiful hair. Your gray hair is beautiful, and so uniquely you! We love the results of blending grays with our NaturColor line as an alternative to fully covering up your gorgeous natural hair.

There has never been a better time to go gray gracefully, naturally and stylishly. Learn how to love your gray mane as much as we do in our blog on (LINK) how to How to Embrace Your Gray Hair. Empower your locks to express your inner radiance and wisdom. Show off those hard-earned silver strands!

Boost Thin Hair with SiliconeThin, lifeless hair is a common complaint, yet few women know the best remedy.

Thin, lifeless hair is a common complaint, yet few women know the best remedy. Heavy conditioners will just leave your hair limp. A better bet is to use products with silicone, such as dimethicone or cyclomethicone. These coat the strands with a thin film, creating fuller hair that doesn't look greasy. The silicone stays put even after you rinse.

Eat Fish and Nuts for Healthy HairThe same nutritious foods that are good for your body promote stronger, healthier hair.

The same nutritious foods that are good for your body promote stronger, healthier hair. Load up on salmon and nuts! Their protein and omega-3 fats help create a healthier scalp. Leafy vegetables, beans, and carrots are also good for your tresses. Beware of fad diets aimed at quick weight loss. They can starve your body of important nutrients, which can lead to brittle hair or hair loss.

Protect Shine With Lukewarm WaterHot water can strip the protective oils that act as a natural conditioner.

Hot water can strip the protective oils that act as a natural conditioner. And your hair's natural shine can disappear. This doesn't mean you have to suffer through cold showers to avoid dull hair. Instead, use lukewarm water to wash your hair. Pamper the scalp by massaging it while you shampoo.

Mend Split Ends with ProteinThankfully, there are hair products to help mend the damage.

If you often style your hair with hot tools -- or you color, bleach, or perm a lot -- you can damage hair's protective outer layer. The result is "split ends." Thankfully, there are hair products to help mend the damage. Look for conditioners with protein. They sink into the hair shaft and repair split ends. The fix only lasts until the next shampoo, so you'll need to use them regularly.

Get that 'Redhead Bounce'The fullness of your hair is in your genes -- and your styling technique.

The fullness of your hair is in your genes -- and your styling technique. Natural redheads have thicker hair, while blondes have the thinnest but greatest number of hairs. Luckily, you can plump up the volume whatever its color. Use a leave-in conditioner or mousse and dry the root area first. Flip your hair upside down as you dry, for an extra volume boost. If your hair is very fine, use low heat with any hot tool.

Don't Treat Dandruff With OilsA minor skin disorder of the scalp is to blame.

Dandruff is not a type of dry skin at all -- despite the white flakes that float down to your shoulders. A minor skin disorder of the scalp is to blame. Rubbing oil into the scalp can just make it worse. Shampoos with medicine are the best fix -- from a drugstore or a dermatologist. Leave the shampoo on for 5 minutes to soak into your scalp. Be sure to rinse thoroughly.

Skip High-Powered Blow DryersYou might expect a powerful blow dryer to slice a few precious minutes off your styling routine.

You might expect a powerful blow dryer to slice a few precious minutes off your styling routine. But in a comparison of blow dryers, Consumer Reports found they all dried hair in about the same amount of time. Some are much noisier than others, though. The group found the more expensive dryers were the quietest, and the noisiest were as loud as a lawn mower.

Brush Less to Limit Hair LossDon't believe that myth about 100 brush strokes a day.

Don't believe that myth about 100 brush strokes a day. Too much brushing will snap off hairs. Some hair loss is normal – most people lose 50 to 100 hairs every day. These have stopped growing and have reached a resting stage. To keep from losing any more hair than normal, use a brush with ball-tipped bristles. And never brush wet hair; use a comb instead.

Take Care With Tightly Wound HairPonytails and braids are great ways to showcase your personal style.

Ponytails and braids are great ways to showcase your personal style. But when they're too tight, they can break off hair and damage the roots. Wearing a tight style around the clock can even make your hair fall out. Set your hair free every night! For braided styles meant to last months, leave hair a little loose at the scalp. If you wear heavy extensions, give your hair a break after three months.

Don't Let Brands Clean Your WalletWhat are you really getting for extra money spent on specialty products?

What are you really getting for extra money spent on specialty products? Consumer Reports tested products on 1,700 ponytail samples and found that pricy shampoos were no better than cheaper ones. What should you buy? Choose shampoos and conditioners designed for your hair type, such as those for oily, fine, or color-treated hair.

Use Gentle Color to Cover GraysHair doesn't just change color as we get older – it also becomes weaker and grows more slowly.

Hair doesn't just change color as we get older – it also becomes weaker and grows more slowly. That means damaged hair won't be snipped off as quickly by haircuts. Chemicals used on "mature" hair should be weaker to avoid damage.

Calm Frizz in Winter, TooHumidity gets the rap for causing frizzy hair days.

Humidity gets the rap for causing frizzy hair days. But there's more static electricity when the air is dry. This means frizz also flies in winter months and in the desert climates of the Southwest. Use conditioner to stop static electricity. Shampoos that are pH-balanced also can calm the frizz for hair that's colored or relaxed with chemicals.

Keep Brushes Away from Your CurlsCurly hair is more likely to break and become dry and brittle.

Curly hair is more likely to break and become dry and brittle. Gently using a pick keeps curls looking better than combing or brushing. Conditioners with polymers can smooth hair and make it more manageable. Look for polyvinylpyrrolidone on the label. Don't overdo the use of flat-irons and relaxers, which can damage hair.

Avoid Extreme Color ChangesPerhaps you're a brunette who always wanted to be a blonde, or a blonde who wants to go darker.

Perhaps you're a brunette who always wanted to be a blonde, or a blonde who wants to go darker. Be aware that you're risking damage to your hair with more extreme color changes. Some dermatologists recommend staying within three shades of your natural color.

Give the Blow Dryer a RestFrequent blow-drying is hard on your hair and can actually lead to hair loss.

Frequent blow-drying is hard on your hair and can actually lead to hair loss. When you do blow dry, turn down the heat. Finer hair is especially sensitive to damage from heat, but even thick manes need some tender care. Protect your hair before styling by using a conditioner or a heat styling product.

Protect Hair from the SunThe sun is no kinder to your hair than it is to your skin.

The sun is no kinder to your hair than it is to your skin. Sun exposure can dry out hair, especially if it's color-treated. Use a light hair spray with broad spectrum sun protection -- or wear a hat when the sun is strongest. Frequent summer trims can keep your ends looking healthy.

Shower Before You SwimAvoid chlorine damage by rinsing your hair before entering the pool or wearing a swim cap.

Avoid chlorine damage by rinsing your hair before entering the pool or wearing a swim cap. If your hair is already saturated with water, it won't absorb as much from the chemical-laden pool. Use a pH-balancing hair product to further protect your hair.

Take a Time Out from StylingFor better hair days, the best thing you can do is -- nothing.

For better hair days, the best thing you can do is -- nothing. All the tugging, combing, brushing, drying, and chemically treating of hair damages the shafts. Even vigorous towel-drying can damage hair. Gently blot wet hair with a towel. If you have damaged hair, take a break from styling. As the damaged hair grows out, the new growth will be healthy.

Be Aware of Changes in Your HairSudden changes in your hair, such as brittle hair or losing much more hair than usual can in rare cases be a sign of a health problem.

Sudden changes in your hair, such as brittle hair or losing much more hair than usual can in rare cases be a sign of a health problem. Some medicines can cause hair loss, too. If you notice dramatic changes in your hair, see a dermatologist.

How long can your hair grow in 2 weeks?

Most hair strands grow at an average rate of about 0.3 to 0.4 mm a day. So, this means it may grow up to one-tenth of an inch or a little more in a week. However, this growth differs with people. Genetics, hormones, nutrition, and stress levels all play a role when it comes to the health and growth of tresses.

An average person loses about 50 to 100 hairs every day and grows the same amount. Any physical or emotional stress or deficiency in iron, biotin, and vitamin D can negatively affect hair health (growth and density of the hair).

How do I make my hair grow faster and thicker?

The most important factor in healthy hair other than genetics is diet. Many individuals experience hair loss when they indulge in crash diets or rigid fasting for weight loss. A diet rich in protein (eggs, lean meat, legumes), calcium, iron, and zinc, as well as vitamin B complex, is essential to hair health.

Other tips, such as shampooing hair only two to three times a week, using special filters in the shower if the area supplies hard water, and avoiding hot water head baths all help to keep the scalp healthy. Avoid brushing and combing wet hair, and use a wide-toothed comb when possible. Always condition the hair after washing it. Tight hairstyles, braids, buns, or ponytails can cause hair loss and bald patches. Using curlers, hot irons, colors, hair rebonding and straightening can affect hair density and damage hair follicles. When the tips of the hair are persistently dry, they split (split ends) resulting in breakage and, thus, thinning of hair.

If a person is on prescription pills for acne, they may experience severe hair loss. Talk to the skin specialist regarding hair supplements to counteract the same.

What can I rub on my scalp to make my hair grow?

Treating the underlying cause of hair loss, such as nutritional deficiencies, is essential for healthy hair care and hair growth. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has approved topical minoxidil (Rogaine or Regaine) as an over-the-counter drug for hair loss. It comes in liquid, foam, and shampoo forms in 5 or 10 percent concentrations. The medication must be applied to the scalp two times a day for best results.

Minoxidil can help regrow about 10 percent of the lost hair when it is applied regularly. It is contraindicated in individuals younger than 18 years old, during pregnancy, and nursing mothers. Other than minoxidil, various over-the-counter products can help with hair loss. Serums containing ceramides, urea, and lactate are often used to hydrate the dry scalp and reestablish its pH level to prevent hair loss.

Oils, especially argan, virgin coconut, almond, and olive oil, when rubbed on the scalp can help promote hair growth cycles due to the massaging action, which stimulates dormant hair follicles. A homemade hair mask using egg yolk and a teaspoon of olive oil and honey can be applied to the hair for 10 minutes and covered with a warm towel. It helps make healthy hair soft and shiny and relieves dry scalp.

What is the secret of hair growth?

Do you know how to grow long hair? Ever wanted long, gorgeous locks without extensions? These secrets really work, so try a few, sit back, and watch your hair grow!

1. Wash your hair less.

Previously, my biggest mistake was going along with the misconception that you must wash your hair every day. Actually, it’s quite the opposite; the more you suds up, the more you’re stripping your hair of essential oils it needs to stay healthy and moisturized. Only wash your hair 2-3 times per week, and don’t feel weird about it–you’re doing your hair a huge favor! Remember, less is more.

2. Only trim when needed.

If your hair is healthy, there’s no need to trim every 6 weeks. Give your hair a chance to grow! Healthy hair can go months without needing a trim, some hair enthusiasts claim even a year.

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3. Brush your hair every day {but NEVER when wet!}.

Daily brushing helps remove dust, dirt, and loose scales, as well as stimulates the blood supply and distributes sebum (oily matter that lubricates and protects skin) along the hair shaft. You should brush once in the morning, and once before bed. But do not use a brush on wet hair–instead, use a wide-toothed comb and start at the ends, working gently towards the roots.

4. What you eat and drink matters.

Better looking hair can start by what you eat and drink. The cells that support strong hair depend on a balanced diet. Superfoods for your hair: drink lots of water, eat plenty of lean protein, especially salmon (rich in omega-3 and vitamin D), walnuts (vitamin E), eggs (iron helps carry oxygen to hair follicles), and spinach (iron, beta carotene, and folate). Honorable mentions: sweet potatoes, blueberries, and greek yogurt.

5. Take a natural supplement.

To help boost fullness and length, try a natural supplement like Biotin, vitamin B, omega-3, or Viviscal. For more help on how to grow long hair, this article is helpful, but just remember it’s always best to consult your doctor and research each supplement for yourself.

How to grow long hair fast

6. Switch to dry shampoo.

Ever heard of the “No Poo” method? Yeah, I thought it was something gross too. Turns out, it’s a HUGE movement among ladies who want longer, healthier locks. Basically, it’s a movement away from harmful commercial shampoos that do more harm than good for our hair.

Try gradually replacing your shampoo with Big Sexy Hair Volumizing Dry Shampoo, Dr. Bonner’s Pure Castile Soap, or simply “washing” with baking soda and “conditioning” with apple cider vinegar for as long as possible.

Grow long hair

7. Ingredients matter.

Check the ingredients on every product before you apply them to your hair; some are harmful and possibly even carcinogenic. Main ingredients to avoid: sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS), and sodium laureth sulfate–this industrial detergent found in engine degreasers and potent garage floor cleaners. It’s also found in an enormous number of commercial shampoos. Go check your’s now–bet it’s in there. For a more extensive list of good and bad ingredients, check here for a complete ingredient dictionary.

8. Use a coconut oil treatment once a week.

There’s a reason this HowDoesShe post has over 1 million views! Coconut oil treatments are like heaven to your hair. Read all about this pre-washing treatment and how it can seriously transform your hair.

Coconut Oil for Hair

9. Do a deep protein condition once a month.

If you struggle with how to grow long hair consider adding deep protein conditioning to your routine. Protein treatments will add strength and resiliency to your hair, helping it to grow longer. This should really become part of your monthly hair regimen if you want to get serious about getting long hair. Our long hair guru Lara swears by THIS Moroccan oil hair mask. This one by Aphogee also gets good reviews.

Moroccan Oil Hair mask

10. Stimulate your scalp.

Never underestimate the power of a scalp massage. Scalp stimulation promotes hair growth by bringing nutrients to the hair follicles (where hair grows). You can stimulate your scalp by massaging your scalp every time you wash your hair, every night before bed, or by brushing. Do it at least once or twice daily.

11. Don’t apply conditioner directly to your scalp.

The jury is still out, but some hair-care professionals and beauty articles recommend NOT applying conditioner directly to the scalp. Conditioner on the scalp tends to create flyaways and frizz, not to mention causes dandruff and weighs your hair down.

12. Air dry whenever possible.

Harsh heat is your hair’s worst enemy. Forget about the blowdryer–let your hair dry naturally as often as you can. Over time, you’ll be able to see and feel a huge difference. If you do need to use a blow dryer, this one, from Babyliss is a less damaging option.

How to grow long hair

13. Use Oils.

Combine two drops of each of these essential oils and massage them into your scalp 3-5 nights a week: lavender, rosemary, thyme, cedar wood, and jojoba.

Massage grape seed oil into your scalp nightly (or every 2-3 nights if it gets too oily)

Apply Palm oil to hair 1-2 times per week

Hair enthusiasts SWEAR by Moroccan oil or Argan Oil

grow long hair fast

14. Try a {strange but true} pantry product rinse.

Potato water rinse: use your leftover potato water to rinse your hair and give it a much-needed post of vitamins A and C. Or juice 3 potatoes, add 1 egg yolk, 1 TB honey, and mix and rinse.

Onion water rinse: seems totally wacky, right? Yet, seems to work!

Egg hair treatments

Apple cider vinegar rinse

15. Use a leave-in conditioner

If you struggle with dry hair or frizz, try a leave-in conditioner that locks in moisture and keeps your hair hydrated all day. Try these top leave-in products on Amazon or these homemade recipes on Pinterest.

How to grow long hair

16. Try Shikakai Powder

Shikakai is a shrub-like tree that grows in India and has been used for centuries to cleanse hair and promote growth. This is another great tool you can use in how to grow long hair. In its powder form, Shikakai is a natural conditioner and strengthens hair roots and promotes growth with vitamins A, C, D, E, and K, along with essential antioxidants. Mix it with water and use as a paste on the hair instead of shampoo.

skikakai powder for your scalp

17. Use silk pillowcases…seriously, it makes a difference.

Ever wake up to find strands of hair on your cotton pillow cases? You’ll never believe what a difference silk pillow covers can make for your hair. Find out more and how to make your own here.

Homemade silk pillowcase

18. Stop bleaching

If you want to get serious about growing your hair longer, stop putting it through harsh chemical processes that will stunt growth, dry it out, and promote breakage. Try going natural for a while, at least until you achieve the length you want. The currently popular ombre is also a great option that does less damage to your hair.

Want more hair hacks?

Now that you’ve learned the secrets of how to grow long hair, you may be interested in these styling hacks. Like these hair braiding secrets here, or these hacks below:

Should I put apple cider vinegar in my hair before or after shampoo?

Using apple cider vinegar for hair

Apple cider vinegar (ACV) is a popular condiment and health food. It’s made from apples using a fermentation process enriching it with live cultures, minerals, and acids.

ACV has many applications as a home remedy. One of these is as a hair wash to improve scalp health, strengthen hair, and enhance shine.

While hailed as a home “panacea” or “cure-all” for health problems despite being under-researched, the benefits and science around ACV does deliver when it comes to hair care.

For those dealing with hair issues such as itchy scalp or hair breakage, apple cider vinegar might be a great natural remedy to explore.

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Why use ACV for hair care?

There are many arguments for why this hip health condiment is great for your hair.

10 Things I wish I knew Before Starting the Wavy Curly Hair Journey 😱😆

Acidity and pH

For one, apple cider vinegar — beyond having some well-researched health properties — is an acidic substance. It contains good amounts of acetic acid.

Hair that looks dull, brittle, or frizzy tends to be more alkaline or higher on the pH scale. The idea is that an acid substance, like ACV, helps lower pH and brings hair health back into balance.

Antimicrobial

ACV is also a popular home disinfectant. It may help control the bacteria or fungi that can lead to scalp and hair problems, such as minor infections or itchiness.

Other claims

Apple cider vinegar is praised for being rich in vitamins and minerals good for hair, like vitamin C and B. Some also claim it contains alpha-hydroxy acid which helps exfoliate scalp skin, and that it’s anti-inflammatory, which can help with dandruff.

How do I use ACV for hair care?

An ACV wash can be made very simply.

Mix 2 to 4 tablespoons of apple cider vinegar with 16 ounces of water.

After shampooing and conditioning, pour the mixture over your hair evenly, working into your scalp.

Let it sit for a couple of minutes.

Rinse it out.

Coconuts and Kettlebells recommends mixing a few drops of essential oil into the mixture if the acidic smell is too powerful for you. The smell should also go away quickly after rinsing.

Try incorporating the rinse into your hair care regimen a couple of times a week. Also feel free to increase the amount of ACV you use in each wash or rinse. Generally, keeping it around 5 tablespoons or less is recommended.

Things to watch out for

Using apple cider vinegar is all about bringing hair back into balance. If you’re not careful, it can be overdone. If your hair or scalp issues worsen instead, discontinue using ACV. Or, try lowering the amount you put into a rinse, or the frequency you use it.

Apple cider vinegar contains acetic acids known to be caustic. This means they may irritate or burn the skin.

Always dilute ACV with water before applying it directly to the skin. If your rinses are too strong, try diluting it more — though if irritation happens, it almost always clears up within a couple of days.

Also avoid contact with eyes. If contact happens, quickly wash out with water.

Pursue the above guidelines and using apple cider vinegar can be deemed completely safe.

Does research support its use?

As of yet, there’s been no research directly testing apple cider vinegar’s benefits for hair care.

For some ACV claims, however, there’s good science and research to vouch for healthy hair effects. For other claims, more research is still needed, or science hasn’t been able to back up that they’re true.

Apple cider vinegar’s potential power to lower pH to boost hair health holds merit. A 2014 studyTrusted Source on shampoo pH found that high alkalinity can contribute to hair friction, breakage, and dryness.

The study argued that most hair care products don’t address hair pH when they should, and that most shampoos tend to be alkaline. As a highly acidic substance, ACV could help balance pH. By increasing acidity and lowering pH, it may support smoothness, strength, and shine.

Apple cider vinegar’s antimicrobial powers are also well-supported by research. It could keep scalp problems related to fungus or bacteria at bay, thereby preventing itchy scalp. There’s no research or science behind dry scalp or dandruff support, however.

There’s also little to no evidence that ACV contains vitamins — that is, in any detectable amount to impact hair health. It does contain minerals like manganese, calcium, potassium, and iron.

There’s also no research proving that ACV contains alpha-hydroxy acid, though apples are known to contain it. Apples are also known to contain vitamin C, and yet the vitamin is undetectable in vinegar.

No data exists proving that vinegar is anti-inflammatory, either. In fact, the condiment contains very caustic acids that, when misused, may cause inflammation rather than reverse it.

The takeaway

Science supports the use of apple cider vinegar as a hair rinse. It could help strengthen hair and improve luster by lowering hair and scalp pH.

It may also keep pesky scalp infections and itchiness at bay. However, it shouldn’t be relied on to reduce inflammation or solve diseases or issues of the scalp, like dandruff.

Everyone’s hair is different. Apple cider vinegar rinses may not work for everyone. The best way to know if it’s beneficial for you is to bring it into your hair care routine, and see if it works for you personally.

What can I put on my scalp for hair growth?

Hair loss is on the rise, and while it might not have direct physical effects on your health, the emotional toll can be significant.

There are different reasons for hair loss — genetics, hormone imbalances, fungal conditions of the scalp, stress, autoimmune diseases, and nutritional deficiencies — but there are some things you can do to naturally regrow your hair.

What is hair loss?

Hair loss can be categorized by several symptoms. Male or female pattern baldness, also called androgenic alopecia, is most common among men over 50 and women who have already experienced menopause.

Male pattern baldness

For male pattern baldness, causes include:

genetics

cancers

thyroid conditions

medications

nutritional disorders

high levels of sex hormones called androgens

Female pattern baldness

It’s less likely for women to go completely bald, but it’s common for thinning to occur. Doctors divide female pattern baldness into 3 types:

Type I. This is when a small amount of thinning starts around the hair part.

Type II. This involves widening of the part and increase thinning around it.

Type III. This is thinning throughout, with a see-through at the top of the scalp.

Female pattern baldness can be naturally occurring, related to genetics, a side effect of medication or treatments, or hormone changes caused by pregnancy or menopause.

Women are less likely to experience hair thinning in their 20s and instead may start to see symptoms in their 40s, 50s, and beyond.

Healthline’s tips to naturally regrow your hair

1. Massage

Massaging the scalp, which can be used in conjunction with hair oils and masks, stimulates the scalp and may improve hair thicknessTrusted Source.

It’s thought that stretching during the massage encourages hair growth and thickness in the dermal papilla cells, which are located in the bottom of the hair follicle. These cells play a key role in the formation of hairTrusted Source, hair growth, and the shedding and regrowth cycle.

Massage is also known to improve blood flow and the health of the scalp. A 2019 study found that hair growth improved blood flow and the health of the scalp.

Taking the time to massage your scalp each day can also help you relieve stress and tension, an added bonus if these emotions are at the root of your hair loss.

Massage your scalp with your fingertips, not your fingernails. Move your way across your scalp in small circles, applying light to medium pressure. While there’s no set amount of time that you have to do a scalp massage, each scalp massage was given daily for 4 minutes for a period of 24 weeks in the 2019 study above.

The bottom line: Be patient and consistent.

2. Aloe vera

Aloe vera has long been used for treatingTrusted Source hair loss. It also soothes the scalp and conditions hair. It can reduce dandruff and unblock hair follicles that may be blocked by excess oil.

You can apply pure aloe vera gel to your scalp and hair a few times per week. You can also use shampoo and conditioner that contain aloe vera.

3. Coconut oil

Coconut oilTrusted Source contains fatty acids, called lauric acid, that penetrate inside the hair shaft and reduce protein loss from hair.

Coconut oil can be used either before or after you wash your hair, depending on your hair type. If your hair tends to be oily, you can do a leave-in treatment overnight or for a few hours before you wash it.

Massage coconut oil into your scalp and all of your hair. If your hair is dry, you can also use it as a leave-in treatment. There needs to be more research on coconut oil as a promoter of hair growth, but it’s been shown to lubricate the hair shaft and prevent breakage.

One studyTrusted Source also found that coconut applied to the scalp helps enrich the scalp’s microbiome, making the scalp and hair follicles healthier.

4. Viviscal

Viviscal is a natural hair growth supplementTrusted Source that promotes hair growth in people with thinning hair.

It contains a marine complex known as AminoMar C, which is a mineral-rich combinationTrusted Source of shark and mollusk powder, organic silica, and vitamin C (derived from acerola cherry). These ingredients can help regenerate new cells and strengthen existing cells.

You have to take the pills twice daily for at least 6 months in order to see results. Viviscal also makes a shampoo and conditioner.

5. Fish oil

Consuming omega fatty acids can help improve your hair from the inside, since they are filled with nutrients and proteins. Taking an omega supplementTrusted Source, along with antioxidants, helps improve hair density and diameter. It also reduces hair loss.

Omega fatty acids help your cells work correctly and can boost immunity, leading to better overall health.

You should follow the manufacturer’s recommended dosage and consult your doctor prior to introducing any new supplements to your diet.

6. Ginseng

Taking ginsengTrusted Source supplements can promote hair growth by stimulating hair follicles. Ginsenosides are the active components of ginseng and are thought to be responsible for the positive effect on hair.

You should always take supplements as directed and be sure to check for any possible side effects.

7. Onion juice

If you can handle the smell of onion juice, you may find that the benefits are worth it. Onion juice has been shownTrusted Source to promote hair growth and successfully treat patchy alopecia areata — an autoimmune condition in which the body attacks the hair follicles and causes hair loss on various parts of the body.

Onion juice is also thought to improve circulation. Animal studies show improved keratinocyte growth factor, an important mediator of hair follicle development and growth.

To consume onion juice, blend a few onions and squeeze out the juice. Apply the juice to your scalp and hair, and leave it in for at least 15 minutes. Then, follow up with shampoo.

8. Rosemary oil

Rosemary is a common essential oil that people use to promote hair growth and reduce hair loss. Rosemary oilTrusted Source has been found to stimulate new hair growth and can even be used to treat androgenetic alopecia.

Mix a few drops of rosemary oil into a carrier oil, like argan oil or jojoba oil, and massage it into your hair and scalp before rinsing. You can do this a few times per week.

You can also add a few drops of rosemary oil into your shampoo and conditioner on a daily basis. However, you shouldn’t use essential oils directly on the skin, and you should always mix them in a carrier oil or shampoo.

9. Geranium oil

Geranium, or Pelargonium graveolens, is a fragrant plant that’s native to South Africa. Geranium oil is the concentrated essential oil that’s extracted from its leaves. You can use geraniumTrusted Source oil to promote hair growth and boost circulation.

Mix three drops of geranium essential oil with eight drops of a carrier oil, and apply it directly to your hair. You can also add a few drops to your shampoo and conditioner.

Geranium oil can help strengthen, hydrate, and restore your hair.

10. Lemon

You can use fresh lemon juice or lemon oil, since they’ve both been found to enhance hair quality and growth. Lemon oilTrusted Source may help you maintain a healthy scalp and encourage hair growth.

Apply fresh lemon juice to your scalp and hair 15 minutes before you shampoo. You can also use lemon essential oil diluted in a carrier oil as part of a hair mask.

Interested in other men’s health products?

Through our reviews and brand comparisons you can explore our top picks for sexual wellness, hair health, and more.

Frequently asked questions

Can I use natural hair regrowth methods with other treatments?

Naturally regrowing your hair often requires a multidirectional approach, which means you may have to combine different approaches for the best results.

If you’re currently under a physician’s care for hair loss, and you want to combine natural methods with your medical treatment, talk with your doctor to make sure there are no concerns or possible contraindications.

What causes hair loss?

Hair loss can have multiple causes. In some cases, there’s a genetic component. Other times, it’s a result of autoimmune disease, high stress levels, recent surgery or illness, hair damage from bleach or dyes, scalp conditions, or vitamin deficiencies.

Hair loss can also develop in response to hormonal imbalances or thyroid conditions. Pulling on your hair and wearing tight hairstyles can also contribute to hair loss over time.

When should I see a doctor?

Most people lose about 50 to 100 strands of hair per day. This may seem like a lot, but it’s insignificant compared to the 100,000 hair follicles you have on your head.

If you’re noticing that you’re losing more hair than average, it’s worth discussing with your doctor, especially if hair loss is combined with other symptoms, like fatigue, anxiety, itching, and mood changes.

The bottom line

If you want to improve your hair, come up with a plan and stay consistent. Remember that the treatments may take a few months to yield noticeable results. Be creative with the remedies and mix them up as much as you like.

It’s important that you take time each day to focus on nourishing your hair. Taking this step and practicing self-care are beneficial if your hair loss is related to any emotional or stress-related issues. Do your best to maintain a healthy lifestyle that complements your hair treatment plan.

Talk with your doctor about medications or procedures if these natural methods don’t work for you.

Does vinegar open hair follicles?

When it comes to finding beauty products in your pantry, it isn’t exactly apple cider vinegar that comes to mind, but it should be. While we hear of foods that have magically beauty powers, and are constantly bombarded by coconut oil’s amazing qualities, apple cider vinegar is the health and beauty superstar we swear by.

If you’re wondering what this kitchen staple can do for you, just keep on reading…

HAIR GROWTH

Oftentimes hair growth is stunted by clogged hair follicles. Apple cider vinegar cleanses the scalp, increases circulation, strengthens the hair follicles and promotes healthy hair growth. Curious what else you can rub on your scalp for hair growth? Or if there are any vitamins and supplements to encourage it from the inside? We’ve got everything you need.

PH BALANCING

You would be surprised to find out how many hair products are not pH balanced! That means that if a product is too alkaline, the hair is likely to feel coarse, dry or brittle. Apple cider vinegar keeps hair at an optimum pH level, cleansing the hair without stripping it of it’s natural oils.

SHINY HAIR

Because of Apple Cider Vinegar’s pH levels, a quick rinse at the end of your shower helps close the cuticle of the hair, allowing strands to feel softer with more shine.

DETANGLING

Sensitive scalps rejoice! The pH balancing qualities of apple cider vinegar mean hair is easier to comb through without tugging on strands and causing breakage..

SPLIT END REMEDY

Another benefit it’s pH balancing powers mean split ends are sealed and moisture is retained; so kiss those heartbreaking haircuts goodbye.

TREATING DANDRUFF

The miracle vinegar has anti-bacterial, anti-inflammatory, and anti-fungal properties that kill the yeast that causes dandruff, flaking, or an itchy scalp. If you need more tips for treating dandruff, look no further.

HOW TO USE…

After shampooing your hair, we suggest using apple cider vinegar as a substitute for conditioner. Try mixing two tablespoons of apple cider vinegar with two tablespoons of water (try it in a spray bottle!) and a couple drops of essential oil (we love lavender for relaxation, rosemary for hair growth, or tea tree for dandruff). Massage into the scalp, then rinse with cool water. Repeat 2-3 times a week.

Just remember that not all apple cider vinegar is created equal! It’s important to use organic unfiltered apple cider vinegar if possible for the most effective and immediate results.

Have you used apple cider vinegar on your hair before? Let us know why you love it in the comments!

Can vinegar damage your hair?

Apple cider vinegar is one of those magical ingredients you’ll find just about everywhere in the natural hair care world. However, it is important to stress just how powerful this ingredient is, sometimes all too powerful…

Apple Cider Vinegar is one of those praised ingredients in the natural hair community. And for good reason! Many resort to Apple Cider Vinegar for a deep cleanse, for both loose and locked hair. Though it can work wonders on your hair and scalp, it can also cause unnecessary damage when not used correctly. Let’s have a closer look at ACV, it’s properties, benefits, what could go wrong with an ACV rinse and how to effectively use ACV in your natural hair care routine.

Apple Cider Vinegar Properties

Apple cider vinegar comes from the fermentation process of apple cider, after the (organic) apples have aged in wooden barrels. ACV has an abundance of minerals, vitamins and amino acids. It’s one of those magic potions that can be ingested directly to cure certain ailments or applied topically, directly onto the ‘problem’ area. You want to purchase whole, unfiltered, and distilled ACV with the ‘active-mother’ inside the liquid. The distilled version has little to no nutrients left inside this deliciously rich product.

ACV Benefits for skin and hair

Apple Cider Vinegar has a pH level of around 3, and when diluted will contain similar levels to a healthy scalp. Many shampoos have high alkaline levels to actively clean out any dirt, product build-up and debris caught in the scalp and hair. However, what tends to happen with this high alkaline level is dryness, breakage and frizz because all of that ‘good’ natural oil has been rinsed from the scalp and roots. A proper ACV rinse can bring your scalp back to its natural pH level, leading to smooth, soft and healthy hair.

ACV will also help fight dandruff, fungus, or bacterial growth on the scalp which leads to flakage and dandruff and it can also prevent hair loss. As far as the skin goes, ACV can be used for people with oily skin types, or people who are prone to acne. ACV works as an exfoliator, stimulates circulation, fights blackheads, can clear dark spots on the skin and will fight acne-causing bacteria. Not bad, eh?

Apple Cider Vinegar Rinse | Dandruff Cure

What could go wrong with a deep ACV rinse

First off, you should never use ACV directly on the skin, hair or scalp without diluting it first. It’s also not a recommended remedy for those with extremely dry hair, and shouldn’t be used frequently if you are coloring your hair.

There is also, well, the smell. Some people really can’t stand the smell of ACV, and though some resources claim the smell fades in no time after rinsing, others claim they could smell the ACV throughout the day. It’s best to dilute the ACV when using and then thoroughly rinse out the mixture. But please be careful with this mixture because as we mentioned earlier, ACV is a very powerful ingredient and can damage the scalp when not used with care. ACV is very acidic and when used too often, or too heavily can damage the hair.

How to use ACV safely and effectively on curly, kinky and coily hair

So now you’re wondering how to use ACV without burning your scalp right? A 1 parts ACV to 1 part water recipe has a pH of approximately 3 and a 1 parts ACV to13 parts water has a pH of about 4. Both options are safe when used intermittently throughout the month(s).

You can either use an ACV rinse after shampooing your hair with a gentle and natural shampoo, or without shampooing the hair.

Apply the mixture (say 1 tablespoon ACV to 13 tablespoons of warm water) with a spray bottle, or a slow drip bottle. Apply to damp hair.

Massage into the scalp and let the mixture sit for 5-10 minutes, then rinse well.

We don’t recommend doing this treatment more than once every two weeks. Experiment and observe how it works with your hair over the next months.

Our last thoughts on ACV

We love utilizing natural ingredients, made directly from nature herself. It may come as a surprise, but there are some natural ingredients which are all too powerful and need to be handled with alchemic care. The idea is to find a rinse that improves your hair, and doesn’t damage it! So please handle with care, and no matter how serious your condition may be, try not to over-do-it.

Has an ACV rinse worked for you? What was your experience with ACV, and what tricks have you found that improve this deep cleanse to the next level?

How long do you leave apple cider vinegar in your hair?

Apple cider vinegar (or ACV) is an all-round performer. It solves your skin, hair, health and even home cleaning related problems! This is the second article in a 4-part series on Apple Cider Vinegar. Read Part 1: Apple Cider Vinegar For Weight Loss

This magic ingredient can solve all your hair problems — dandruff, dry and dull hair, itchy scalp, thin hair and more. Plus, it boosts hair growth and leaves you with nourished, shiny and healthy hair. What more can one ask for!

In this post, we cover:

Apple cider vinegar benefits for hair

Apple cider vinegar uses for hair

DIY homemade hair masks using apple cider vinegar to

boost hair growth

get thick hair

reduce dandruff

improve damage hair

add shine

Benefits of using Apple Cider Vinegar for hair

Reduces frizziness in hair: Apple cider vinegar contains acetic acid which helps in restoring shine to hair and reducing dryness, making them less frizzy. The reason hair become brittle and frizzy is because of the high alkaline content in them. When you counteract that with the acidity of vinegar, natural balance gets restored.

Acts against itchiness and scalp infections: The antimicrobial qualities of apple cider vinegar make it effective against fungi and bacteria that cause scalp infections. Regular use of apple cider vinegar for hair wash can help you heal your scalp and become itch-free.

Reduces dandruff: Alpha-hydroxy acid, present in apple cider vinegar, is an exfoliant that cleans up scalp and reduces dandruff.

Makes hair healthy: Apple cider vinegar is good for hair because it contains several vitamins and minerals that nourish your hair, leaving them shiny and healthy.

benefits of using apple cider vinegar for hair - shiny, healthy and strong hair

How To Use Apple Cider Vinegar For Hair

Given the advantages of using apple cider vinegar on hair, you wouldn’t want to miss out on it. Here’s how you can use this magic ingredient for hair:

Using Apple Cider Vinegar as Hair Rinse

Regular use of shampoos, conditioners and other hair products leads to product build up. ACV hair rinse helps in cleaning your scalp completely and adds shine to your hair.

Mix ACV and water in equal proportions and pour over your hair after you have shampoo and conditioner. Leave your hair as is for a couple of minutes and then wash it off with water them. If you have a sensitive scalp, add more water than vinegar. You can also add essential oils to this mix if you don’t want your hair to smell vinegary.

Using Apple Cider Vinegar as Hair Rinse

Using Apple Cider Vinegar as hair detangler

Tangled hair lead to most hair fall and this budget product can help you resolve your tangled mess. All you need to do is

Mix ACV and water in a one-to-one ratio and pour it in a spray bottle. Before you start combing, spray this mix on your hair.

Using Apple Cider Vinegar as hair detangler

Using Apple Cider Vinegar to make hair shiny

One of the common problems we all face with hair care products is that they to become ineffective after repeated use. One of the reasons for this is product build up that clogs hair follicles. As a result, hair start to look dull and lifeless. To solve this problem, we again have apple cider vinegar to our rescue.

In a large cup of water, add two tablespoons of ACV and rinse hair after shampoo. Rinse off again using cold water and apply a mild conditioner to the ends of hair strands.

Using Apple Cider Vinegar for treating dandruff

Home remedies for treating dandruff often miss out mentioning apple cider vinegar. But, like we said earlier, apple cider vinegar is an all-rounder, and is an effective home remedy for dandruff.

Dilute ACV with water and massage your scalp. Let it stay for a few minutes and then wash off with cold water. Repeat on a weekly basis or twice a week if you have severe dandruff problem. Why this works? The acidic nature of vinegar acts against fungus Malassezia which causes dandruff.

Using Apple Cider Vinegar for treating dandruff

Using Apple Cider Vinegar to Treat Oily Hair

Whether your hair are too oily or too dry, what they really need is a product that can restore balance. For oily hair, you need something that can act against the excess oil but does not strip your hair off essential natural oils. So here’s what you should do.

Add 1 tablespoon of apple cider vinegar into a cup of water, apply and rinse. This mixture will remove oil from your hair and, at the same time, won’t dry up your scalp.

Using Apple Cider Vinegar to Treat Oily Hair

Homemade Hair Masks Using Apple Cider Vinegar

Natural deep conditioning hair mask using ACV

DIY homemade hair masks using apple cider vinegar

Ingredients:

1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar

4 tablespoons water

3 tablespoons honey

1 tablespoon olive oil

How to make and use the deep conditioning hair mask

Mix all the ingredients in a bowl and whisk until smooth. Apply to your scalp and strands using your fingers and leave it on for 10-15 minutes. Wash your hair with water generously and you are done. You don’t need to shampoo your hair after applying this mask. In short, this apple cider vinegar hair mask not only conditions your hair but also saves your hair from chemicals.

Hair Mask with Apple Cider Vinegar for Hair Growth

Ingredients:

4 tablespoons apple cider vinegar

2 table spoon coconut oil (increase the amount for dry hair and reduce for oily hair)

3 tablespoon water

How to make and use the hair mask for hair growth

Mix all the ingredients and apply on hair. Leave it on for 10 minutes and rinse off with water.

[Also read: Lavender Oil for Hair Growth]

Hair Mask for Damaged Hair

Ingredients:

½ teaspoon apple cider vinegar

2 tablespoons yogurt

How to make and use the mask for repairing damaged hair

Mix the ingredients and apply on your scalp. Let it dry for 30 mins and wash off with lukewarm water. You can try this once every week.

Hair Mask to Remedy Itchy Scalp

Ingredients:

½ teaspoon apple cider vinegar

2 tablespoons aloe vera gel

How to make and use the homemade hair mask for itchy scalp

Mix the ingredients and leave the mask on scalp for 30 mins. Wash off using your regular shampoo.

Hair Mask to Improve Hair Length

Ingredients:

1 egg white

½ teaspoon apple cider vinegar

How to get long hair using this hair mask

Mix the egg white and ACV in a bowl and apply evenly on your scalp. Leave it in for 40-45 minutes and wash off with regular shampoo and cold water. Continue regularly once a week to get long hair.

Hair Mask to Get Thick Hair

Ingredients:

Spoonful of fenugreek (methi seeds) paste

1 teaspoon ACV

How to make and use the hair mask to get thick hair

For the fenugreek paste, soak the seeds overnight and mash them in the morning. Add ACV to the paste and apply on your hair. Let it stay for 20-30 mins and wash with lukewarm water. This hair mask is a great answer to solving thinning hair problem.

Hair Mask for Dry Hair

Ingredients:

1 teaspoon ACV

2 tablespoon mustard oil

How to make and use the hair mask to reduce hair dryness

Mix the two ingredients and apply on scalp and hair for 30 mins. Wash off with water and your regular shampoo. This hair mask is great for dry hair as it nourishes and moisturises them.

Hope you found these homemade hair masks super useful!

Let us know which one of these apple cider vinegar hair masks you tried in the comments below.

What happens if you leave apple cider vinegar in your hair overnight?

You may have noticed that one of our main ingredients is raw, unfiltered apple cider vinegar. This is also one of our most valuable ingredients for a number of reasons. It is said that the use of apple cider vinegar for cosmetic purposes can be traced back to the Romans! It is in almost all of our products, but what makes apple cider vinegar so great?

Benefits of Apple Cider VinegarApple Cider Vinegar Hair Rinse

Stimulates scalp to promote hair growth

Cleanses hair without stripping natural oils

Removes build-up from chemical products

Helps hair retain moisture for better conditioning

Antibacterial and antifungal properties to help with flaky and itchy scalps

Closes the hair cuticle allowing for shine and fewer tangles

Try an Apple Cider Vinegar Hair Rinse

Apple Cider Vinegar Hair RinseOne thing we recommend during the detox period is an apple cider vinegar hair rinse in addition to the shampoo. This helps get rid of extra build-up and oils on the hair and scalp. We recommend doing the hair rinse once or twice a week during your detox period.

You will want to shampoo as normal and then apply the apple cider vinegar hair rinse. You want to leave it on the hair for at least a few minutes before rinsing out. You can also leave it in your hair overnight! If you leave it in, it will help prevent tangles. Since it restores your scalp’s pH level, it will also help and prevent an itchy scalp.

Apple Cider Vinegar Hair Rinse Recipe

1/4 cup to 1 cup apple cider vinegar

2 cups water

* If your hair is dry, use less apple cider vinegar. If your hair is more on the oily side, use more apple cider vinegar.*

How can I grow my hair faster?

You might be wondering if there’s anything you can do to make your hair grow faster. Do any products help? Can dietary changes speed up growth? And what about medications or treatments?

In this article, we’ll help answer those questions. We’ll also take a closer look at what can affect hair growth and the steps you can take to improve the growth of your hair.

STOP using Apple Cider Vinegar On Your Hair (DO THIS INSTEAD) - DIY - Fine Low Porosity Hair

How does hair grow?

Here’s a fascinating fact: You’re born with all the hair follicles you’ll ever have — around 5 million to be exact, according to the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD).

Of those, about 100,000 follicles are on your scalp. When it comes to losing hair, the AAD says it’s totally normal to lose about 50 to 100 hairs a day.

Hair grows from a root at the bottom of a follicle under your skin. The blood in your scalp goes to the follicle and supplies oxygen and nutrients to the hair root, which helps your hair grow.

As your hair grows, it will push through your skin and pass by an oil gland. According to the AAD, it’s the oil from this gland that makes your hair shiny and soft.

What can help your hair grow?

While genetics does play a role in maintaining healthy hair growth, several other factors also come into play.

Although there’s no magical potion or remedy that will result in instant growth, there are steps you can take to help your hair grow.

Let’s look at 10 steps that may help your hair grow faster and stronger.

1. Avoid restrictive dieting

According to Dr. Lindsey Bordone, a dermatologist at ColumbiaDoctors and assistant professor of dermatology at Columbia University Medical Center, we can’t control everything that affects our hair growth. But there are things we can avoid that may cause impaired growth and increased shedding.

“Restrictive dieting can decrease resources and nutrients needed for hair growth,” said Bordone.

“And since hair growth is a relatively low priority compared to other bodily functions, hair growth is halted quickly when your body is placed under stress due to restrictive dieting,” she explained.

“Even after resuming a healthy diet, hair shedding usually goes on for a period of months,” said Bordone.

2. Check your protein intake

“If your diet is severely restrictive, hair won’t grow optimally, and shedding can occur,” said Bordone.

“Eating a well-balanced diet with adequate protein intake is important for optimal hair growth,” she added. “Generally, we recommend 50 grams of protein or more per day.”

3. Try caffeine-infused products

We all know that caffeine can give you an energy boost, but one 2014 studyTrusted Source found that it may also have growth-promoting effects on your hair.

According to the study, caffeine may help promote new hair growth at the molecular, cellular, and organ levels in both men and women.

If you’re interested in caffeine-infused products, these recommended products are available online:

Glimmer Goddess’ Organic Caffeine Hair Growth Conditioner has a blend of ingredients, including caffeine, vitamins, premium oils, and organic plant materials.

TruePure Natural Caffeine Shampoo is infused with caffeine and other ingredients like niacin, red clover, and vitamins.

4. Explore essential oils

Essential oils not only smell good, but they may also help promote hair growth.

One studyTrusted Source found that a daily dose of 400 milligrams of pumpkin seed oil in capsule form resulted in an increase in hair growth in men. After 24 weeks, the men who took pumpkin seed oil experienced a 40 percent increase in hair count.

Another studyTrusted Source looked at four groups of mice, each of which was given a different hair treatment. The treatments consisted of saline, jojoba oil, 3 percent minoxidil, or 3 percent peppermint oil.

The study found that the group given peppermint oil showed the most hair growth. This included a significant increase in dermal thickness, follicle number, and follicle depth.

ResearchTrusted Source has also shown that rosemary oil may be just as effective as minoxidil, the active ingredient in Rogaine, at restoring hair growth.

5. Boost your nutrient profile

Specific vitamins, minerals, and fatty acids are especially important for your overall health and also play a key role in providing your body with the energy needed for hair growth. This includes:

biotin

vitamin C

vitamin D

vitamin E

zinc

iron

omega-3 and omega-6

One studyTrusted Source found that taking omega-3 and omega-6 supplements for 6 months may help protect against hair loss.

Data from another studyTrusted Source suggested that lower zinc levels may play a key role in hair loss.

While the research demonstrating the efficacy of biotin is limited, a review of the literatureTrusted Source found 18 reported cases that showed clinical improvement in both hair and nail health after biotin supplementation.

If you’re interested in vitamin supplements, these products are available online.

LesLabs Hair Health contains all the essential nutrients to support hair growth. This dietary supplement contains vitamin A, vitamin E, thiamin, biotin, pantothenic acid, zinc, zinc, pumpkin seed extract, MSM, and bamboo stem extract.

Sugarbear Hair Vitamins are a vegetarian gummy supplement that contains vitamins A, C, D, E, vitamins B-6 and B-12, folate, zinc, biotin, pantothenic acid, and more.

6. Indulge in a scalp massage

A scalp massage can help promote relaxation and relieve stress. But, according to a small 2016 studyTrusted Source, it may also help boost the health of your hair.

The study examined the effectiveness of daily, 4-minute scalp massages. After 24 weeks, the researchers found that the nine men involved in the study had thicker hair than at the start.

While the study didn’t show any noticeable difference in hair growth, it’s thought that a scalp massage may help dilate blood vessels beneath the skin. This, in turn, may lead to thicker, stronger hair that’s less likely to break off or become damaged.

You can get a professional scalp massage or indulge in a do-it-yourself massage at home.

7. Look into platelet-rich plasma treatment (PRP)

Board certified dermatologist Dr. Sapna Palep of Spring Street Dermatology says using PRP therapy with patients who have hair loss has shown promise.

While more controlled studies are needed, one studyTrusted Source found that PRP may serve as an effective treatment option against hair loss.

“PRP is a breakthrough treatment that uses injections of a concentration of a patient’s own platelets to restore and accelerate hair growth,” she said. “Platelets are protein derived from one’s own bloodstream and DNA that can act like a stem cell when placed back into the body,” said Palep.

Scalp injections of PRP can jostle awake dormant hair follicles, resulting in more hair growth.

Treatments are once a month, for 3 months, and every 6 months thereafter for maintenance.

8. Hold the heat

Heat from curling irons, hair dryers, and straighteners can damage your hair and cause breakage. While avoiding heat styling altogether may not be an option, you may want to try limiting how often you use these tools. Decreasing the temperature of heated styling tools can also help reduce hair damage.

Additionally, according to a 2011 studyTrusted Source, using a heat protectant product before using a heated styling tool may significantly reduce hair breakage.

Heat treatments work by forming a protective barrier that helps prevent moisture loss when using heated tools.

If you’re interested in heat protectants, these recommended products are available online:

HSI Professional Argan Oil Thermal Protector is a weightless mist that can help protect your hair from heat exposure up to 450ºF (232.2ºC).

Kenra Platinum Blow-Dry Spray is a pricier option that can decrease the blow-dry time and protect your hair from heat at the same time.

9. Talk to your doctor about minoxidil

Vanessa Thomas, a cosmetic chemist and founder of Freelance Formulations, says there are some ingredients, like minoxidil, that have been clinically tested for hair growth and have shown positive results.

Used to treat hereditary hair loss at the back of the head, minoxidil is the active ingredient in Rogaine.

“Some products that contain minoxidil do not need a prescription if the concentration of minoxidil is under a certain percentage,” said Thomas. However, any product that uses this drug has to be registered with the Food and Drug Administration (FDA).

Rogaine doesn’t work for everyone, and it can take up to 4 months to see results.

10. Go easy on coloring your hair

“When we dye our hair and change the texture with chemicals, these processes can put stress on the hair and cause it to break,” said Thomas.

“But when we tone down these processes, hair breaks off less and can seem like it’s growing faster,” she added.

The bottom line

While genetics does play a role in hair growth, several other factors also come into play. And while there’s no magical formula for instant hair growth, there are steps you can take to boost the health and growth of your hair.

Eating a healthy diet that includes key nutrients as well as adequate protein is key. Using certain products and treatments may promote hair growth, while dialing back on heat treatments and chemical processing can help, too.

If you’re concerned about hair loss or have trouble getting your hair to grow, you may want to talk with your doctor about why this may be happening.

Can we directly apply apple cider vinegar on hair?

Apple cider vinegar is not only a staple health food product – it can also be used as an effective beauty product for your hair. All you need is unfiltered apple cider vinegar and water to make a hair solution that can help with itchy scalp, hair breakage, and might even help your hair grow faster. Applying apple cider vinegar to your hair can also remove product build-up, making your hair look extra shiny and smooth.

Part

Mixing the Apple Cider Vinegar Hair Solution

Image titled Apply Apple Cider Vinegar to Hair Step 1

Find a raw, unfiltered apple cider vinegar. When shopping for the apple cider vinegar to apply to your hair, choose an unfiltered apple cider vinegar that is cloudy rather than clear. Clear apple cider vinegars are pasteurized to remove the sediment that makes raw apple cider vinegar cloudy. The sediment contains the nutrients that are beneficial for your hair, so it is best to use a raw, unfiltered vinegar product.[1]

Most organic apple cider vinegars are unpasteurized, so it is a good idea to check organic food stores.

Image titled Apply Apple Cider Vinegar to Hair Step 2

Measure out equal parts apple cider vinegar and water. To make an apple cider vinegar solution for your hair, use 1 part water to every 1 part apple cider vinegar. For example, if you are making a large batch of the rinse, try mixing 8 ounces (230 g) of apple cider vinegar for every 8 ounces (230 g) of water.

If your skin is sensitive, try a more diluted mixture, such as 1 part apple cider vinegar to every 2 or 3 parts water. This will make the rinse less acidic and easier on your skin.

Use warm water to make the application of the solution more comfortable.

Image titled Apply Apple Cider Vinegar to Hair Step 3

Mix the ingredients in a cup or spray bottle. Once you have measured the ingredients to your preferred ratio, pour the apple cider vinegar and water into a cup or spray bottle. Shake or stir with a spatula or spoon to mix well.

Using a spray bottle can be helpful because it may help you apply the solution more evenly over your hair. If you use a spray bottle, make sure that it is new and clean, as any residue from other products may be harmful to your hair.

If you don’t need to use it all immediately, you can store the leftover hair solution in the refrigerator for up to two weeks.

Image titled Apply Apple Cider Vinegar to Hair Step 4

Add a few drops of your favorite essential oil. For extra nutrients or to mask the vinegar smell, add a few drops (1 to 3) of your favorite essential oil to the apple cider vinegar and water solution. Lavender, rosemary, lemongrass, and tea tree are all essential oils commonly found in hair products, and contain nutrients that may help make your hair healthier. Lavender, tea tree, and rosemary are particularly popular for stimulating healthy hair growth, while lemongrass may help with itchy scalp caused by dandruff.[2]

Be careful with hot oils, such as peppermint, though, as these may irritate your skin. If you want to add a hot oil like peppermint to your solution, stick to 1 to 2 drops until you know how the oil impacts your skin.

Part

Applying the Solution to Your Hair

Image titled Apply Apple Cider Vinegar to Hair Step 5

Shampoo and condition your hair as usual. Using the shampoo and conditioner of your choice, wash your hair as you normally would. Rinse thoroughly with water before applying the apple cider vinegar solution.[3]

Make sure that you have completely rinsed the shampoo and conditioner out of your hair. This will ensure that the apple cider vinegar does not have an adverse reaction to the chemicals in your shampoo or conditioner.

If you do not usually use conditioner, you can skip it – the apple cider vinegar solution will make your hair soft and smooth anyway!

Image titled Apply Apple Cider Vinegar to Hair Step 6

Apply the apple cider vinegar solution to clean, wet hair. Pour or spray the solution onto your hair, making sure that you use enough to cover your whole head. Massage the solution into your hair and scalp for a few seconds to help stimulate hair growth.

If your solution is in a cup instead of a spray bottle, lean your head back a bit when you pour in order to prevent the solution from going into your eyes.

If you have split ends, spend a little extra time rubbing the solution into the ends of your hair.

Image titled Apply Apple Cider Vinegar to Hair Step 7

Let the solution rest on your hair for 2 to 10 minutes. Leave the solution in your hair for 2 to 10 minutes, depending on how strong your solution is and how sensitive your skin is. If this is your first time applying apple cider vinegar to your hair, you might want to rinse after 2 minutes since you don’t know how the solution will affect your skin.[4]

If your solution is strong (i.e. if you used a 1:1 ratio), do not leave the solution on for more than 10 minutes, as it can seriously irritate your skin. Even if you do not have sensitive skin, it is best to ere on the side of caution for your first time.

Image titled Apply Apple Cider Vinegar to Hair Step 8

Rinse the solution out completely. Wash the apple cider vinegar solution out of your hair with clean water. After the solution is rinsed out, you can dry your hair as usual. Avoid using any products until your hair is completely dry, then style as usual. Your hair will be shiny, healthy, and smooth to the touch.[5]

Image titled Apply Apple Cider Vinegar to Hair Step 9

Apply the apple cider vinegar solution to your hair 1 to 3 times per week. For best results, use your apple cider vinegar solution on your hair 1 to 3 times per week to cleanse product build-up and ensure your hair stays healthy and strong.[6] If your hair tends to be dry, try applying less often, about once per week, to avoid drying out your hair. If your hair is particularly oily, try applying the apple cider vinegar solution up to 3 times per week.

Even when diluted with water, apple cider vinegar is acidic and could irritate your skin. If you notice any signs of mild irritation, such as redness or itching, try diluting the solution with more water and/or using your apple cider vinegar solution less frequently. If the irritation is severe and you notice signs of a rash or feel any burning, discontinue use and consult your doctor if it does not get better.[7]

How often should I use apple cider vinegar on my hair?

Our scalp has a slightly acidic pH level of 5. This acidity level is essential in keeping the cuticle flat and closed, which translates into shiny and soft hair, with less frizz. It also prevents dryness, breakage, tangling, helps retain moisture and makes the hair smooth.

A 2014 study found that high alkalinity in shampoos can contribute to breakage, hair friction, and dryness. Unfortunately, most shampoos are alkaline and have a pH level above 5. The alkaline nature of shampoos disrupts the acidity of the scalp and makes the cuticle layer more susceptible to breakage, tangling, and frizz.

Use Apple Cider Vinegar to turn Thin Hair to Thick Hair, for Double Hair Growth & Long Hair

However, you can regulate the pH of your scalp by using apple cider vinegar. It has a pH level of 3. The pH scale ranges from 0 to 14. A pH of 7 is neutral. A pH less than 7 is acidic. A pH greater than 7 is basic. So, diluting the apple cider vinegar with water will increase the pH and lead to less acidic treatment for your scalp.

Apple cider vinegar is a super-ingredient that has recently made a big name for itself outside of salad dressing, as a naturally healing and restoring agent. However, apple cider vinegar has actually been used for thousands of years since the time of ancient Greece!

Even though uses for apple cider vinegar may look a bit different than they did back then, one of the most modern discovered benefits of apple cider vinegar is for hair and scalp cleansing.

It also brings up the question of “How often should I use apple cider vinegar rinse on my hair and scalp without causing damage?” Keep on reading to find the answer!

Benefits of washing your hair with apple cider vinegar

Apple cider vinegar is a popular home remedy that strengthens your hair, enhances shine, and improves scalp health. It can also help you to deal with an itchy scalp and hair breakage. Apple cider vinegar can also deeply cleanse your scalp and balance the pH to improve shine and reduce frizz.

Balances ph

We can’t stress enough the importance of maintaining the pH of your scalp. If your scalp becomes more alkaline, you’ll notice the difference in the way your hair looks and feels. Apple cider vinegar’s natural acidity helps bring your hair back into balance.

Clarify

Even if you think your hair is squeaky clean, it probably isn’t. If you aren’t using a clarifying shampoo on a regular basis, then you might have a scalp build-up and residue in your hair from your hair styling products, leave-in conditioners, and dry shampoos. Apple cider vinegar’s detox properties can help to thoroughly clarify your scalp and remove stubborn build-up without completely stripping your hair of its natural oils!

Reduces dandruff

ACV helps reduce dandruff, due to its antibacterial and antifungal properties and it also gently exfoliates your scalp and helps remove flakes. The acidity of apple cider vinegar reduces fungal growth, which helps eliminate the root cause of dandruff. ACV also helps clean your scalp by ridding it of product buildup, which is another common cause of dandruff.

Protects hair color

As ACV seals the cuticle, it helps boost shine and protects your hair color.

Relieves itchy scalp

ACV also has anti-inflammatory properties, and it can prevent bacteria growth on the scalp. Suppose you have an itchy scalp due to dandruff or product buildup. ACV can effectively reduce inflammation, balance your scalp’s pH, and dissolve and remove buildup. This will minimize dandruff and reduce itchiness.

Repair

Hair damage often occurs as a result of color treatments or excessive heat styling that can leave you with breakage, dullness, and dryness. While you can’t necessarily repair your hair overnight, combining the ACV along with other repairing agents like argan oil is a great regimen that will put your hair on a healing path.

Encourages hair growth

Although there is no research linking ACV to hair loss prevention, the acidity of ACV is a potential solution for hair thinning.

Again, it has to do with the ideal pH level of the hair & scalp, which is between four and five. Add ACV to your hair care routine to balance pH levels, unclog pores and stimulate healthy hair growth.

Due to its nurturing nature, apple cider vinegar can provide your hair with all the nutrients needed for re-growing healthy and strong strands in areas that are currently experiencing hair loss.

The acids in apple cider vinegar are great exfoliants that can help stimulate hair growth on your scalp. It can also fight free radicals that weaken your hair in the first place!

How To Use Apple Cider Vinegar On Hair?

With all these benefits, you might be tempted to just pull out your apple cider vinegar, pour it onto your hair, and call it a day!

However, this really isn’t the best method.

Instead, you should look for hair care products that have been formulated with apple cider vinegar like shampoos, hair masks, and finishing sprays.

Apple Cider Vinegar Shampoo

If you find that ACV’s smell is too strong for you or preparing an ACV rinse seems too complicated, you can always use an apple cider vinegar shampoo.

Another idea is apple cider vinegar infused shampoo used with nurturing conditioner. Check out the WOW Apple Cider Vinegar Shampoo and Coconut Avocado Oil conditioner pack - it is a great combo for reviving damaged hair and cleansing scalp.

Apple Cider Vinegar Shampoo will help you to remove buildup, scalp flakes and dandruff, but you will always need a product after that that will nourish your dry and damaged hair.

When using apple cider vinegar shampoo, wet your hair and massage a generous amount onto your scalp with your fingertips.

Let the shampoo sit in your hair for three to four minutes if you have normal hair, or five to six minutes if you have dandruff or really oily hair.

Rinse thoroughly until there are no suds left. Condition your hair with a nourishing conditioner. And if you’re wondering, yes, ACV shampoo is also safe for color treated hair.

Apple cider vinegar mist tonic, this powerful natural product makes a great hair tonic that can help smooth out tangled or frizzy hair for a silky-smooth look.

Shampoo your hair as usual, then spray the solution all over your damp hair. You can also use this mist tonic on-the-go to boost shine and protect your hair from outside irritants.

Note: we do not recommend DIY ACV mist tonics or apple cider vinegar rinse for hair. You must know how to properly dilute apple cider vinegar to make it safe for your strands.

Is It Safe To Use (ACV) Apple Cider Vinegar For Hair? – Dr.Berg

Also, if you use ACV infused shampoo, ACV mist after that might be too much for your hair.

Stick to one product at a time.

Apple cider vinegar hair mask: When using an apple cider vinegar hair mask on your natural or color treated hair, start by washing your hair with products that have no ACV ingredients.

Then, leave it to dry for a bit.

You can press your hair in between a cotton or microfiber towel to get some of the extra water out.

Apply a generous amount of hair mask all over your hair while avoiding your actual scalp. Leave the mask on for at least 20 minutes so that it can really soak into your hair strands and have the full effect.

Rinse the mask out of your hair thoroughly with mild water.

Apple Cider Vinegar Hair Rinse

If you have apple cider vinegar in your kitchen, you can use it to prepare an ACV hair rinse.

First, mix a few tablespoons (not more than 5) of ACV with water and pour the mixture over your hair after shampooing and conditioning.

Next, work the mixture into your scalp, leave it on for four to six minutes, and then rinse your hair with lukewarm water.

Use an apple cider vinegar rinse a couple of times a week.

Side effects of apple cider vinegar on hair

Apple cider vinegar is all about bringing balance to your hair and scalp.

You should be careful not to overdo it, though, and use a too concentrated ACV solution, as it can irritate the skin. Also, never use ACV on your skin undiluted!

How Often Should I Use Apple Cider Vinegar on My Hair

Apple cider vinegar infused hair products: due to the powerful cleansing properties, all ACV products should be once per week max, but never in combination with apple cider homemade rinse.

How often can I use ACV Infused Hair Products?

Shampoo: You only need to repeat the ACV shampoo detox process once or twice a week since apple cider vinegar, as an acid, can affect the natural scalp pH.

DIY ACV rinse: Pure ACV is extremely acidic and will definitely start degrading your hair and drying out your scalp. So, we don't recommend using diluted ACV rinse more often than once a week at most. Also, make sure you properly dilute it.

Hair mask: ACV infused hair mask should be used only once a week, and never as a leave-in product. It will be enough to make your hair smooth, shiny, and silky.

Also, make sure you do not use ACV product in combination with the homme-made apple cider vinegar rinse.

Guide For Purchasing Apple Cider Vinegar Hair Products

Now you know why apple cider vinegar has been a staple in beauty routines from ancient times and would make a great staple for your beauty routine because it boosts hair health and scalp health as well.

How can you find ACV infused hair care products, and make sure they’ll do what they promise?

Well, the best way to purchase quality apple cider vinegar hair care products is the internet. There are so many vegan, sulfate-free, silicone-free, and paraben-free hair care products, with an affordable price range that will, however, give you the much-needed assurance that you’re making the right purchase.

Overall, you need to look for products made by a reputable company with great reviews and accessible customer support.

For example, all of WOW’s products are specially formulated with natural actives like apple cider vinegar, Moroccan argan oil, almond oil, coconut oil, shea butter, aloe vera, and essential oils.

This powerful combination of plant-powered hair care products can be used to detox your scalp and remove buildup, fight frizz, boost hair growth, and get silky and shiny hair.

But, be careful not to damage the natural pH values of your skin by using ACV products more than recommended.

Apple cider vinegar has become a popular natural remedy with all kinds of purported benefits, from weight loss to clearing skin.

Although many of these medical benefits are anecdotal, it seems that ACV is great for many hair types and issues, from scalp itchiness to split ends.

INSIDER spoke with four dermatologists who gave us the scoop on this affordable grocery store staple when it comes to our tresses.

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In recent years, apple cider vinegar has been touted by beauty experts and medical experts alike for its many health benefits, with many drinking apple cider vinegar as part of their beauty routine to help clear skin or even lose weight.

How I Got Shiny Hair --- Apple Cider Vinegar Rinse

Like anything else, ACV probably isn't a miracle cure for any health woes, but it might be an easy, affordable hack to help give you shiny, healthy hair.

Whether you're buying products like shampoo made with apple cider vinegar or whipping up an at-home DIY hair rinse using ACV, INSIDER spoke with four dermatologists and they told us about the many possible benefits of this grocery store staple on your strands — no matter your hair type or texture.

It could potentially help ward off dandruff

"Apple cider vinegar has antibacterial and antifungal properties," board-certified dermatologist Dr. Debra Jaliman told INSIDER. "Fungus is what causes dandruff. [ACV] contains malic acid which is what helps to keep the pH level of the scalp balanced. Dandruff is a buildup on the scalp that happens when too much yeast is present on oily areas of the skin. Using a mix with ACV will help to avoid this build up on the scalp called dandruff."

"It is useful in treating dandruff because it helps lower levels of yeast on the skin that promotes inflammation which leads to flaking," said Dr. Joshua Zeichner, director of cosmetic and clinical research in dermatology at Mount Sinai Hospital in New York City, touting its antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties.

These same properties can possibly help with product build-up

Though they may seem like the same thing, dandruff is different than product build-up, which can happen as we wash our hair less often and rely on products like dry shampoo to last longer between washes.

Styling products can leave residue in hair, but as Dr. Jaliman said, apple cider vinegar is "an alpha hydroxy acid so it helps to exfoliate the skin. It also has a pH similar to the skin, so it helps to maintain a healthy pH balance of the skin and scalp," possibly helping to clarify your strands after days of gels, mousses, and sprays.

"ACV is slightly acidic," said Pennsylvania-based board-certified dermatologist Erum Ilyas, MD, MBE, FAAD. "Our hair is also naturally acidic from the oils and sebum from our scalp. Hair products often disrupt the pH balance of our hair. When our hair is normal and in the slightly acidic range, the cuticle is smooth. When we add hair products, many of these attach to our hair by opening the cuticle slightly by making the hair more alkaline. By using ACV, the normal acidity of our hair is restored and the product buildup resolves."

Try apple cider vinegar to ease scalp itchiness

dry shampoo buildup and scalp issues

ACV helps to rebalance scalp pH. Cushy Spa/Flickr

There are several reasons why you might experience scalp itch, from dandruff to medical conditions like atopic dermatitis and psoriasis and others. Though you should absolutely check in with your doctor or dermatologist for any unusual itching, Dr. Jaliman told INSIDER that ACV can help alleviate some of the itchiness, revealing that "the apple cider vinegar helps to rebalance your scalp's pH. Balancing the pH of your scalp will help reduce scalp itchiness."

ACV might help prevent hair loss and stimulate new hair growth

Adding apple cider vinegar to your hair care routine "will help keep your scalp healthy by warding off bacteria and keeping a balanced pH level," said Dr. Jaliman, adding that "this will stimulate hair growth. ACV gently exfoliates the scalp which in turn will promote hair growth and healthier hair."

Of course, any hair loss concerns you might have should be discussed with your doctor or dermatologist, but having a cheap, natural tool in your arsenal can't hurt, as well.

It can help make hair feel smooth, soft, and shiny

Since we know that styling tools and products, as well as exposure to the elements, helps roughen up our hair's cuticle, we're often left with strands that feel dull or prone to tangles.

"Apple cider vinegar helps to close the hair cuticle," said Dr. Jaliman. "In turn, your hair will be more manageable and much shinier. ACV helps to remove buildup on the hair," which will also boost shine, she told INSIDER.

These same benefits can help prevent split ends and breakage

damaged hair

ACV can close hair cuticle. SonerCdem/ iStock

Just as ACV helps to close the hair's cuticle, it's working to keep hair healthier overall, which may help with breakage and split ends, said Dr. Ilyas, though it's not a miracle cure.

"Using ACV occasionally will restore the acidity to the hair follicle. This will smooth out the cuticle and make it less weak. By doing so in moderation you may be able to prevent split ends and breakage."

ACV might help restore hair's natural texture

Although it's not a cure-all for any and all of your hair woes, adding apple cider vinegar to your hair care routine might help restore your hair's natural texture after damage from tools, products, and environmental stressors, said Kathleen Cook Suozzi, MD, assistant professor at the Department of Dermatology at the Yale School of Medicine. She told INSIDER that "ACV can help smooth hair strands via the alpha hydroxy acids it contains. AHAs exfoliate skin by removing dead skin cells and debris."

Apple Cider Vinegar for Hair | Grow Long Hair

She added, "Similarly it can help exfoliate and smooth hair strands. In addition, the AHA helps exfoliate the scalp."

It might help ward off certain scalp infections

As with any medical concern, you should check in with your doctor, but our experts say that apple cider vinegar might be useful for certain scalp infections.

"ACV absolutely has antimicrobial properties so it can be an effective method to ward off scalp infections of some kinds," said Dr. Ilyas. "There have been medical studies attempting to validate the common usage of ACV. At full concentrations, ACV is effective topically against bacteria, yeast, and fungus. However, once diluted it appears to maintain its effectiveness against bacteria down to a 25% concentration but loses effectiveness for yeast and fungi."

"So, depending on what the cause of the scalp infection is, it may show some effectiveness," she said, adding that "for bacteria on the scalp, the infection will appear as a folliculitis, inflamed hair follicles. Yeast will trigger seborrhea which results in itching and flaking. Fungus can attack the hair follicles and cause hair breakage and itching."

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Sunday 24 April 2022

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