7 Science-Backed Apple Cider Vinegar Skin Benefits
Medically reviewed by Deeptej Singh, MDMedically reviewed by Deeptej Singh, MDApple cider vinegar (ACV) offers various skin benefits when applied directly to the skin (topically). Research suggests that the acetic acid in ACV has antimicrobial, antifungal, and antioxidant properties. You can use it to support wound healing or to help manage conditions like eczema and acne.Researchers don’t completely agree on the benefits of ACV for facial or body skin, and in some cases, it can irritate the skin. Still, people commonly use it to help tighten and exfoliate facial skin, treat acne or age spots, and take on infection, dryness, or irritation.
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1. Cleansing and ExfoliationCommonly, people use ACV to clean and exfoliate the skin or remove dead skin cells. Regularly washing your face with apple cider vinegar solutions can remove debris, dirt, oils, and bacteria, contributing to healthier skin. These solutions can serve as an alternative to harsh soaps or cleansers.2. Skin TonerACV can also be an ingredient in skin toners to refresh the skin, promote hydration, and restore pH balance. Since the acetic acid in ACV has antibacterial properties, it may also protect and preserve hydration by tackling dryness and irritation.3. Acne TreatmentACV can be a natural remedy for acne on the face or other areas because of the acetic acid's antimicrobial properties. In one study, researchers found solutions with apple cider vinegar disrupted the Cutibacterium acnes biofilm, a layer of collected bacteria on the skin. Disrupting the biofilm can prevent pimple or blackhead formation.4. EczemaEczema (atopic dermatitis) is a chronic inflammatory condition that causes flare-ups of inflamed, scaly, itchy, and irritated patches of skin. Many people use ACV as a home remedy to ease the itchiness, prevent infection, and protect the skin's natural protective barrier. It also may help with pruritis, which is itchiness due to chronic kidney disease.However, using ACV for eczema is controversial. A recent study found ACV had little effect on the S. aureus bacterial biofilm seen with eczema. Other research noted that ACV treatments may cause dryness and irritation.5. Blemish TreatmentSome people try applying ACV solutions to lighten age spots or blemishes. The acetic acid in apple cider vinegar is an ingredient in products used to treat seborrheic keratosis—noncancerous brown or black spots. In one study, most people with seborrheic keratosis saw it resolve with a combination of acetic acid, other organic acids, zinc, and copper salts. However, more research is needed to understand this effect. 6. Wound CareApple cider vinegar's antimicrobial properties are well-established. Research shows that using ACV solutions on wounds or cuts effectively reduces bacteria and restores the skin's pH balance, which helps protect it. In addition, it can help the skin absorb antibiotics to treat infection and prevent bacterial biofilm.7. Marine Animal InjuryContact with jellyfish, sea sponges, certain coral, or other marine creatures can cause a painful or stinging toxic reaction in the skin. ACV works to deactivate the venom and is the first line of treatment for this type of injury. Though not effective for all types, it can treat pain and inflammation and prevent the condition from worsening.
Skin Types and ACVKnowing your skin type is essential when caring for it. People with normal, oily, or aging skin benefit the most from using ACV. However, those with dry or sensitive skin should proceed with caution, as they're more likely to experience skin irritation from topical AVC.
Application Methods and StepsCleanserStore-bought apple cider vinegar typically contains about 4% acetic acid. However, for most at-home topical uses, you’ll need to adjust this concentration and dilute it with water. You can make an ACV cleansing solution at home by adding one tablespoon of ACV to ¼ cup of warm water and using the solution as a face wash or soap. Wash your face regularly, making sure to moisturize afterward.SoakSoaking in ACV and water may help preserve the skin’s natural barrier and manage conditions like eczema. Fill a bathtub with water and add three to four cups of apple cider vinegar. Soak for 15 minutes before rinsing with cool water.TonerYou can incorporate ACV skin toner into your routine to exfoliate and condition the skin. Mix one part apple cider vinegar with two parts water to prepare the solution. After washing your face thoroughly, use a spray bottle or cotton pad to apply the solution. Afterward, apply lotion to preserve moisture and sunscreen to protect from UV rays.Blemish and Spot TreatmentAlong with deep cleansing, direct applications of ACV may help treat pimples and blemishes as they form. Use a cotton swab or ball to directly apply apple cider vinegar to the affected areas. As part of a broader skin care routine, the antibacterial properties of ACV may help prevent and manage acne.
What to Do About the SmellThe odor of apple cider vinegar may be offputting to some—especially as a form of skincare. Diluting ACV with water can help manage the smell, as can adding a couple of drops of essential oil to the solution to cut the odor. You can try scents such as eucalyptus or peppermint. Be sure to add the essential oil to a carrier rather than apply it directly to your skin, as high concentrations can cause irritation.
What About ACV Shots or Supplements?While topical apple cider vinegar can help improve skin health, drinking it can support overall health. Research shows that it can help lower blood glucose, manage cholesterol, and aid in weight loss, among other benefits.Potential Reactions and Side EffectsGenerally, ACV is well-tolerated when applied to the skin, but it can cause problems, especially if used improperly.Burns and skin irritation: ACV can cause burns and irritate the skin, which is more common in infants or children.Contact dermatitis: ACV can cause an allergic skin reaction with an itchy skin rash in response to nickel. This reaction can happen with topical exposure to ACV and from drinking it.Worsening eczema symptoms: ACV is often used for eczema but can also worsen the condition. In one study, a majority of those who used it daily experienced irritation.
Test Before ApplicationSince using ACV can cause irritation and burn, test how your skin responds before adding it to your skincare routine. Apply ACV to a small skin area first to ensure you don't have an adverse reaction. If you have a skin condition, talk to a healthcare provider or a dermatologist before making any changes to your skincare routine.
SummaryApple cider vinegar (ACV) is a widely used home remedy and skin care treatment. When applied to the skin, it has antimicrobial and antioxidant properties, making it helpful for cleansing and exfoliating. There's also evidence that it may help manage dry skin, acne, and age spots, among other conditions. ACV is generally safe to use, but it does come with a risk of irritation or worsening skin symptoms, especially for people with sensitive skin or skin conditions. Read the original article on Verywell Health.
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