12 Benefits of using Apple Cider Vinegar for Oily Hair
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Due to acetic acid, vinegar derives from the French “vin aigre,” meaning sour wine. Apple cider vinegar (ACV) is made through fermentation, where yeast converts apple sugars to alcohol, and bacteria turn that alcohol into acetic acid. The “mother” is the mixture of yeast and bacteria formed in this process. While the Internet promotes various health benefits of ACV, some claims can be overly enthusiastic, attracting medical attention. [1]
Articles Contains
- Ways Apple Cidar Vinegar Can Transform Oily Hair.
- Conclusion
- Key Takeaways
- Frequently Asked Questions
- References
Ways Apple Cider Vinegar Can Transform Oily Hair
1. Acidity and pH
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ACV is an acidic substance containing high amounts of acetic acid, which gives it its strong smell and flavor. The natural pH level of hair is between 3.67 and 5.5, which means it’s slightly acidic. A substance with a pH value higher than 7 is considered alkaline. Hair that looks dull, brittle, or frizzy tends to be more alkaline or higher on the pH scale. Using an acidic substance with a pH level below 5.5 may help lower pH and bring hair health back into balance. ACV has a pH level between 2 and 3. As a highly acidic substance, ACV could help increase acidity and lower pH, which may support smoothness, strength, and shine. However, it’s important to note that no research has directly examined the role of ACV in regulating hair pH. [2]
Keep in mind : “If you have open wounds like blisters or scabs, avoid using it until healed or after consulting your doctor,” says Anita Sun from Eliut Salon. “Also, don’t use it before or after a chemical treatment, such as keratin job as the pH can affect the results.” [3]
2. Adds Volume
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ACV is an acidic substance containing high amounts of acetic acid, which gives it its strong smell and flavor. The natural pH level of hair is between 3.67 and 5.5, which means it’s slightly acidic. A substance with a pH value higher than 7 is considered alkaline. Hair that looks dull, brittle, or frizzy tends to be more alkaline or higher on the pH scale. Using an acidic substance with a pH level below 5.5 may help lower pH and bring hair health back into balance. ACV has a pH level between 2 and 3. As a highly acidic substance, ACV could help increase acidity and lower pH, which may support smoothness, strength, and shine. However, it’s important to note that no research has directly examined the role of ACV in regulating hair pH. [2]
3. ACV Fights Frizz
ACV is an acidic substance containing high amounts of acetic acid, which gives it its strong smell and flavor. The natural pH level of hair is between 3.67 and 5.5, which means it’s slightly acidic. A substance with a pH value higher than 7 is considered alkaline. Hair that looks dull, brittle, or frizzy tends to be more alkaline or higher on the pH scale. Using an acidic substance with a pH level below 5.5 may help lower pH and bring hair health back into balance. ACV has a pH level between 2 and 3. As a highly acidic substance, ACV could help increase acidity and lower pH, which may support smoothness, strength, and shine. However, it’s important to note that no research has directly examined the role of ACV in regulating hair pH. [2]
Image: Istock.com
Quick Tip: How to apply?
- Mix five parts water to one part vinegar in a spray bottle (100 ml of ACV to 500 ml of water if you want to Be exact).
- Spray your scalp well enough that it’ll be evenly coated.
- Work the vinegar into clean hair with your fingers. It will be diluted enough that it shouldn’t burn.
- Allow the vinegar mixture to sit—for a very short time. “Let it sit for over five to ten minutes and start slow,” says Dr. Finney.
- Rinse your hair and scalp with cool water.
- Follow this rinse with a light conditioner, nothing that will weigh down your hair.
- Rinse your hair well until you’re sure all the product (and vinegar) is gone. [4]
4. Cleansing
Apple cider vinegar helps to gently cleanse and remove buildup on the scalp from product residue, dirt, and debris, without stripping color or damaging your hair. [5]
We are good to go with the procedure now because it’s pretty simple.
- We just have to mix 2 tbsp. in 1 cup of water.
- After shampooing the hair, pour the mixture into the scalp and massage for 1 to 2 minutes.
- Then rinse with lukewarm water.
- Use ACV as a cleanser twice a week.
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Quick Tip: Brushing and touching your hair frequently can stimulate oil glands. You can draw scalp oils down into the strands and add extra oils from your hands. If you frequently engage in lock twirling, head-scratching, and running fingers through your hair, try keeping your hands off your head to see if it helps reduce your oiliness. [6]
5. Protects Colour
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According to Friese, apple cider vinegar (ACV) helps smooth and seal the hair cuticle, making it ideal for achieving a high-shine finish. The enzymes in fermented apple cider vinegar are believed to close and smooth the hair cuticle, which is the protective layer that retains essential lipids, proteins, and moisture. This process not only restores the condition and shine of the hair but also helps prevent the loss of colour pigments in colour-treated hair. [3]
6. Relieves Itchy Scalp and Dandruff
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- Add two tablespoons ACV in one cup of water. Don’t forget to dilute it as it can cause irritation
- Spray the mixture onto your scalp
- Gently massage your scalp for 3 to 5 minutes
- Let it be absorbed and wait for 5 to 10 minutes
- Wash thoroughly with lukewarm water
7. Anti-microbial
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Fungus, specifically Malassezia, is naturally present on the scalp. While this fungus is normal, excessive growth can lead to an oily and irritated scalp, which may result in dandruff. Fortunately, apple cider vinegar can effectively combat fungus and bacteria, making it an excellent home remedy for oily hair. It’s one of the most popular natural solutions available, but using it in moderation is essential, as too much can be harsh on your scalp and hair. To use apple cider vinegar, dilute two to three tablespoons in a cup of water. You might find applying with a spray bottle easier, ensuring you target the roots and scalp directly. After applying, let it sit for two to three minutes before rinsing it out. Use this treatment two to three times a week for the best results. [7]
8. Effectiveness for Hair Growth
When it comes to promoting hair growth, many health and beauty blogs have been buzzing about the benefits of an apple cider vinegar (ACV) rinse. It’s important to note, though, that there isn’t a lot of solid research backing these claims just yet. Most enthusiasm surrounding ACV seems to stem from personal stories and general studies on vinegar. Many people are excited to share their experiences with using ACV as a rinse for their hair! [8]
If you want to experience ACV results for hair growth you are more then welcome. Procedure is same as described earlier.
- Dilute ACV by adding 2 tbsp. in one cup of water
- Apply on scalp after shampooing
- Massage for 3 to 5 minutes to boost circulation
- Leave it for 10 to 15 minutes
- Rinse thoroughly with lukewarm water
- Apply ACV on the scalp twice a week and observe for at least 2 to 3 months to notice any improvement in hair growth
Results may vary depending on your scalp and some other factors.
Image: Istock.com
Keep in mind: 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 [8]
9. ACV defines curls
You will need 2-4 tsp of apple cider vinegar and 1 cup filtered water along with a bowl or large measuring cup
- Using your bowl or large measuring cup, add the apple cider vinegar and water and mix
- After shampooing your hair, rinse well and pour the ACV mixture over your hair
- Catch the drippings in the bowl or measuring cup that you’re using
- Scrunch up and massage the scalp
- Let sit for up to 5 minutes
- Rinse well and condition
- Style as usual [10]
Quick Tip : If you have low porosity hair, condition before doing the ACV rinse. You don’t know how your hair will react to the acidity in the vinegar. Some curly-haired girls need it more often than others.
We suggest using the ACV rinse for curly hair once every two weeks to start. If you notice your hair seems weighed down, frizzy, or loses its shine sooner, you can increase the frequency slightly, just don’t overdo it. [10]
Image: Istock.com
10. Adds Shine
One of the most noticeable benefits of apple cider vinegar for hair is the shine it adds. The acidity in the vinegar helps smooth the hair cuticle, allowing it to reflect light and making your hair look shinier. Dull hair can be caused by various factors, including environmental influences, genetics, and the use of inappropriate hair products. By using apple cider vinegar, you can enhance your hair’s shine and improve its overall appearance. [9]
Image: Istock.com
11. Anti-inflammatory
It soothes and heals, clarifying and detangling your hair while invigorating your scalp for a healthier, more vibrant look! While you can’t rely on it’s anti-inflammatory properties as they are backed up with few researches. [4]
Image: Istock.com
Quick Tip : Anyone new to using apple cider vinegar on their skin should do a patch test:
- Apply a few drops of diluted or concentrated apple cider vinegar to the back of your hand.
- Watch for irritation like redness, itching, or burning, checking throughout the day.
If there are no reactions, you can try applying the apple cider vinegar wash to your scalp. [8]
12. Smoothening and Strengthening
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Apple cider vinegar (ACV) helps strengthen hair by coating the hair shaft and closing the cuticles. This reinforcement leaves strands strong, soft, and shiny. ACV smooth strands by coating the hair shaft and helps prevent frizz, making it ideal for textured and curly hair. Apple cider vinegar also helps reduce hair thinning caused by an unbalanced scalp pH. It works by clearing hair follicles of debris. [5]
CONCLUSION
While some benefits may not yield significant results, you can gain many advantages from using apple cider vinegar (ACV) for oily hair. We have compiled this information based on research to give you a clearer understanding. Remember that results may vary depending on your hair type. Don’t hesitate to try the highly recommended ACV solutions available online today!
Key Takeaways
You can use ACV for oily hair as:
- Maintaining Acidity and pH of the Scalp
- Antimicrobial Activity
- Adding Bulk to the Hair
- Enhancing Shine
- Softening and Strengthening the Hair
- Anti-inflammatory Properties
- Promoting Effective Hair Growth
- Cleansing the Scalp
- Fighting Frizz
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How Often Should You Use ACV in Your Wash Routine?
You can use ACV 2-3 times a week like regular shampoo. If you have a sensitive scalp, start with once a week and see how your scalp reacts.
2. How Long Should You Leave Apple Cider Vinegar in Your Hair?
You should leave apple cider vinegar in your hair for an average of 5-10 minutes, and no longer than 15 depending on the condition of your strands and scalp. Any longer than that could cause irritation or dryness. Rinse it off immediately if you feel it starts to burn or sting.
3. What are the Side Effects of Apple Cider Vinegar on Hair?
There are some potential side effects that come with using an apple cider vinegar hair rinse. The first of which is an unpleasant smell. There is also the potential to cause brassiness and damage to your strands if used to frequently.
4. Will Apple Cider Vinegar Dry Out My Hair?
Overusing apple cider vinegar can dry out your hair and scalp, so be sure to appropriately dilute it before using it, and use it no more than recommended. If you think your strands may be getting dry, follow up your ACV rinse with an overnight coconut oil hair mask.
References
- Debunking the Health Benefits of Apple Cider Vinegar
https://www.uchicagomedicine.org/forefront/health-and-wellness-articles/2018/august/debunking-the-health-benefits-of-apple-cider-vinegar - Apple Cider Vinegar for Hair: Growth, Dandruff, Rinse
https://www.healthline.com/health/apple-cider-vinegar-hair - Here’s Why You Should Use Apple Cider Vinegar for Gorgeous Hair
https://www.realsimple.com/beauty-fashion/hair/hair-care/apple-cider-vinegar-for-hair - How to Use Apple Cider Vinegar as Soothing Hair and Scalp Rinse
https://www.byrdie.com/apple-cider-vinegar-for-hair - How to Rinse Hair With Apple Cider Vinegar
https://us.davines.com/blogs/news/apple-cider-vinegar-hair-rinse - Oily Hair Remedy: 25 Natural Ways to Get Rid of Greasy Hair
https://www.healthline.com/health/oily-hair-remedy - How to Get Rid of Greasy Hair
https://draxe.com/beauty/how-to-get-rid-of-greasy-hair/ - Does ACV work for Hair Growth
https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/319396?hl=en-US - An Ultimate Guide to Clarifying Hair with Apple Cider Vinegar
https://www.girlandhair.com/blogs/press/an-ultimate-guide-to-clarifying-hair-with-apple-cider-vinegar - Apple Cider Vinegar Rinse for Curly Hair-Every thing you must know
https://holisticenchilada.com/apple-cider-vinegar-rinse-for-curly-hair/
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