Is It Safe to Use Apple Cider Vinegar on Skin? A Dermatologist Breaks It Down (2024)

Beyond its versatile uses in the kitchen, many people enjoy the benefits of apple cider vinegar for their skin, hair, digestive health (thanks to good bacteria your gut loves), and even to regulate blood sugar (by improving insulin function).

From skin dullness to acne scars and age spots, it's not just another new skincare fad: "Apple cider vinegar has been used as a natural remedy for thousands of years," says Raechele Cochran Gathers, MD. "In fact, it's said that Hippocrates, the father of modern medicine, used ACV to disinfect and treat skin wounds thousands of years ago."

Wondering if you should try using apple cider vinegar for healthier skin? Dr. Gathers breaks down everything you need to know, from ACV's healing properties to common misconceptions and mistakes to watch out for.

Common Uses of Apple Cider Vinegar for Skin

"Many claim ACV can help [alleviate] eczema and acne, fade fine lines, and make skin appear brighter and more youthful," Gathers says. "People use it as a toner for the skin and to help treat acne-prone areas."

But Dr. Gathers does caution that, despite the number of people who've fallen in love with it, these claims are purely anecdotal. "There is actually no good scientific study to prove the skin-healing claims of ACV," she says. "Before jumping to ACV, I'd recommend getting evaluated by your dermatologist first."

How Does Apple Cider Vinegar Benefit Skin?

"ACV has antibacterial and antifungal properties and can help kill bacteria and yeast on the skin related to conditions like acne, eczema, and dandruff," Gathers explains. ACV's high acidity level may also help some skin conditions, but its high acidity makes it necessary to dilute with water.

To get a little technical: "Healthy skin lies on the acidic end of the pH spectrum. However, people with eczema can have an elevated skin pH, which can compromise the skin barrier and make it more prone to infections. Since ACV is acidic, it may help restore some of the skin's natural pH," Gathers says.

Beyond treating more troublesome skin conditions, ACV is coveted for more general cosmetic virtues too. "It contains citric acid, an alpha hydroxy acid (or AHA) used to exfoliate, brighten, and smooth [your complexion], as well as polyphenolic antioxidants, which might help improve the skin's appearance," she says.

How to Know If It's Safe to Use on Your Skin

Before you jump right in and add an apple cider vinegar toner or soak to your skin care regimen, know this: ACV is not a cure-all and might not work for everyone. "While it may be helpful for some people's skin issues, it's important to know there haven't been any good studies to support the claims people make about using ACV as a skin treatment." Gathers says. "Always check with your dermatologist first. ACV is acidic, and there are reported cases of people having severe skin irritation and even burns on the skin using it."

How to Use It On Your Skin and Hair

If you get the go-ahead from a doctor, here's how to apply apple cider vinegar gently and safely to your skin, according to Dr. Gathers. Always do a spot test first on a discreet area (think: under your jawline) before swiping it onto your entire face, and wait 24 hours to see if you're going to have a reaction. As a general rule, you should use organic ACV for any applications involving your skin and hair.

ACV Facial Toner

To help clear excess oil or relieve acne-prone skin, dilute 1 tablespoon ACV in 2 cups of water. After cleansing, use a cotton ball or round to swab the mixture gently over your skin, then rinse. "Don't go all in right away," Gathers suggests. "Start by using it two to three days a week to see how you react."

ACV Face Wash

While applying undiluted apple cider vinegar to your skin is not advisable, diluted ACV can work as a substitute for facial shampoos and soaps. Depending on skin sensitivity, use onetablespoon of ACV per 1/4 to 1/2 cups of warm water. Apply the mixture to your face with a washcloth or a cotton pad, then rinse thoroughly.

ACV Spot Treatment

If you have a blemish or feel one coming on, using ACV as a spot treatment can help because of ACV's antimicrobial and antibacterial properties. Dip a cotton swab in pure ACV and apply to the spot, but never swipe pure ACV all over your face. By using ACV as a face cleanser or toner, you can prevent those spots from popping up to begin with.

ACV for Clarifying Hair

ACV is a clarifying rinse that removes product buildup, increases shine, and improves hair health. To make the hair clarifying rinse, mix three to four tablespoons of ACV with two cups of water. After shampooing, apply the rinse to the hair, working from roots to ends. Your hair will feel squeaky and rough; this is normal.

Let the mixture sit for a few minutes (no more than 10), then rinse thoroughly. Apply conditioner and style as usual. This simple process can be used as needed, starting with once a month, but no more than twice per week to maintain the pH balance of your hair.

ACV for Dandruff

To use ACV as a remedy for dandruff, mix equal parts ACV and water (adjust accordingly if your skin is sensitive) and apply after shampooing. Allow to set for 15 minutes, then rinse thoroughly with cool water. Continue your hair care routine as usual.

ACV for Eczema

Mix 1 cup ACV into a tub of lukewarm bath water. Soak the affected areas for 15 to 20, minutes then rinse off with cool water. Follow with a gentle, fragrance-free moisturizer.

ACV for Psoriasis Scalp Itch

Apple cider vinegar can work as a home remedy to help soothe an itchy scalp. To calm inflammation, apply ACV to the scalp two to three times a week. If you experience irritation, dilute the apple cider vinegar 1:1 with water. After application, rinse thoroughly with cool water.

Possible Side Effects of ACV on Skin

As with any substance you apply toyour skin, be cautious of any potential side effects.The most common side effect is skin irritation or sensitivity. Don't apply undiluted ACV to your skin other than as a spot treatment, as in some severe cases, it can cause chemicalburns.