Apple cider vinegar (ACV) is paramount in reducing body weight and also for your digestive system. A lot of people make use of it as an option for the treatment of acne. Meanwhile, there is still limited research concerning this. Most people who have used apple cider vinegar to treat acne reported that ACV helped to reduce acne inflammation and also to soothe the skin. In this article, we have listed and examined some possible benefits of ACV and how it may reduce acne. We have also evaluated a few recipes for you to try out.
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Important benefits of using Apple Cider Vinegar for Acne
There is still limited research to prove that ACV can help in the treatment of acne. The effectiveness of vinegar in killing many strains of bacteria is high. However, there aren’t enough studies to reveal or prove that ACV can kill the bacteria strain that causes acne. The organic compounds contained in vinegar are known to have specific properties, and these may include the following.
- It may help in killing the bacteria causing acne: Two different studies are published in the International Journal of Cosmetic Science and Applied Microbiology and Biotechnology. These studies claimed that lactic acid, succinic acid, acetic, and citric acid has the potential of killing Propionibacterium acnes (P. acnes), the acne-causing bacteria. It is good news that apple cider vinegar possesses all of these acids.
- It may help in reducing acne: The presence of lactic acid in apple cider vinegar may help in reducing acne. A study published in the Indian Journal of Leprology, Dermatology, and Venereology revealed that people who administered a lotion containing lactic acid on their faces observed a reduction in acne.
- It may help in reducing the possibility of scars: Once the acne is healed, apple cider vinegar may help to reduce the wounds that may be left behind. A lot of organic compounds may help in this process. A process called chemical peeling entails applying acid directly on the face. After using succinic acid, chemical peeling may help suppress the acne-causing inflammation. Lactic acid helps to improve the condition of the skin in people with acne.
Factors to Consider Before Using Apple Cider Vinegar
It is pertinent to note that apple cider vinegar is acidic, and thus applying it on your skin may result in a burning sensation. Another thing to note is if you have open wounds, try to avoid using it on your skin. When applying ACV, always put the following factors in mind:
- For the first trial, do not leave the vinegar on for a long time to prevent any allergic reaction to apple cider vinegar.
- Avoid applying raw vinegar on your face as it may cause damage to your skin; always ensure you dilute the vinegar.
- Always make sure you dilute the vinegar with water. Meanwhile, there is no strict rule concerning the water to vinegar ratio. It is good to carry out the experiment and find out a better way to acquire the needed results.
- In some cases, people may notice that their acne is getting worse; afterward, the condition starts to improve. To acquire the desired results, moderately apply apple cider vinegar to your skin.
How to Use Apple Cider Vinegar for Acne
There are two ways in which you can use ACV; these are:
- Add a teaspoon of ACV to your breakfast (morning drink).
- Apply directly; dilute it with water and then apply it directly to your skin.
How to Apply Apple Cider Vinegar for Acne
Listed below are some possible ways you can add apple cider vinegar in your daily routine for reducing acne. You should always remember to dilute the ACV while using it. It is possible to mix three parts of distilled water with a part of the ACV and then apply. If your skin is sensitive, you may choose to increase the water quantity. Use diluted ACV for all the recipes listed below.
ACV Toner for Acne
Ingredients to use
- One teaspoon of aloe vera gel
- Two cups of water
- Two teaspoons of apple cider vinegar
How to prepare
- Properly mix all the ingredients
- Pour the mixture in a spray bottle
Application
Generously spray the toner, all-around your neck and face.
How does it work?
Aloe vera can help in preventing acne. It also enhances the formation of elastin and collagen and improves the quality of health and skin.
Precaution
Ensure you close your eyes while spraying to prevent the toner from getting into them. And ensure you don’t apply it to broken or dry skin.
ACV for treatment of overnight pimple
Ingredients
- One cup of water (filtered water)
- Two teaspoons of apple cider vinegar
How to prepare
Properly mix the vinegar in water and pour/store it in a spray bottle.
Application
- The cotton pad should be dipped in the mixture
- Directly apply it to the areas with pimple
- If the pimple cover a large portion of your face, you can spray it on the parts affected
- Leave it for the whole night, and then wash it off in the morning.
How does it work?
Apple cider vinegar contains acids that dry out the pimple and kill the causative agent – bacteria. It can also help to restore the skin’s pH balance.
ACV for facial steam
Ingredients
- Two to three drops of any essential oil
- Two cups of distilled water
- Four tablespoons of apple cider vinegar
How to prepare
- Add the ACV to the distilled water and then heat.
- Pour the liquid into another bowl and then add tea tree oil.
Application
Your face should be bent over the bowl, and your head should be covered with a towel
How does it work?
The steam helps in opening up the pores and eradicates excess oil and dirt.
Precaution
While steaming your face, your eyes should be kept closed. Your face should not be brought too close to the bowl of water.
Drinking Apple Cider Vinegar for Acne
There hasn’t been any evidence or study to prove that drinking ACV can enhance the healing of acne, but it does have other beneficial roles health-wise. It may aid in reducing body weight and help to minimize obesity-related diabetes and hypertension. Typically, 1 to 2 tablespoons of apple cider vinegar mixed in water or any sort of drinks should be okay. Do consult a physician for the daily dosage. Some individuals may experience side effects such as nausea and acid reflux after they might have taken ACV. Consult your physician immediately if you experience any side effects.
How to Choose the Best Apple Cider Vinegar for Acne
- Do not use the ordinary vinegar meant for cooking for topical use.
- Always purchase “organic apple cider vinegar” because it is unpasteurized and unfiltered. The organic type contains enzymes and vital bacteria that are of benefit to the skin
- It is advisable you go for raw apple cider vinegar because it does not contain artificial flavors and chemicals to better its taste. It contains healthy bacteria.
- Do not purchase apple cider vinegar that comes in a plastic bottle, as plastics contain chemicals that are harmful and can react with the vinegar.
Put in mind that not all home remedies work for all types of skin. ACV may work for some and may not work for others. If perhaps you don’t see the desired results in two to three months, discontinue and consult your physician. Also, if you are experiencing any skin irritation, consult your physician immediately.
Kindly contact us for more inquiries on how apple cider vinegar can help in the treatment of acne. We will love to hear from you.