What Are the Effects of Vinegar on the Skin?

Apple cider vinegar is purported to be a medicinal remedy, dating back to Hippocrates. It is good for many ailments, from relieving arthritis to lowering cholesterol. Used both internally and topically, apple cider vinegar is said to be good for the skin, improving its tone and texture.

Detoxifier

• People who turn to natural remedies say ingesting apple cider vinegar as a tonic helps detoxify the liver, affecting the clarity of the skin and helping clear acne. Apple cider vinegar taken internally helps produce and regulate stomach acids. Remember, though, that the acidity of apple cider vinegar can damage tooth enamel if used too often. Rinsing your mouth or brushing your teeth immediately after ingesting vinegar will help you avoid enamel damage.

Acne Fighter

• Make a solution of one tablespoon of apple cider vinegar to one quart of water and dab it on your skin after washing or between washings. This breaks down the sebum produced by the pores on the skin. This will cure black and white heads forming on the skin.

Pectin Packs a Punch

• The natural pectin in apple cider vinegar will help soften skin when applied as a 10 percent solution to the skin. Pectin aids in improving the texture of the skin.

Hair Benefits, Too

• Rinsing your hair with this solution will strip away shampoo build-up, making the hair soft, shiny and light-reflective.

Vitamin Rich

• Apple cider vinegar has a high vitamin content, containing vitamins C, E, A, B1, B2 and B6, as well as beta-carotene, potassium, calcium, copper, magnesium and iron, all of which aid in replenishing the skin when ingested.

Dry, Itchy Skin

• Used as a solution on the skin, apple cider vinegar helps relieve dry, itchy skin due to rashes, sunburn, hives, bug bites or eczema. As well as relieving itchiness, apple cider vinegar is said to relieve the sting of sunburn and promote skin healing without peeling.