Apple Cider Vinegar or ACV has been associated with a lot of health benefits from weight loss, to blood sugar regulation etc, apart from being used in salad dressings, baking, cooking and as a preservative. But have you tried apple cider vinegar for your hair? Using apple cider vinegar for the hair maybe something new to many. So read on to find out more about it.
What does apple cider vinegar do to your hair?
The pH level of hair is between 4.5 and 5.5, as there is oil on the scalp known as sebum, secreted by the sebaceous glands. The pH helps measure how acidic or alkaline something is. It can be measured from a scale of 0 to 14, with 7 being neutral (1 to 6, acidic and 8 to 14 alkaline). The acidity in the hair prevents bacteria from growing on the scalp, leaving the hair cuticle closed and healthy. Alkaline substances can cause the hair cuticle to open, which makes the hair look frizzy. Closed cuticles result in flat and smooth hair shafts that remain shiny, soft and manageable, as it locks in the moisture in your hair shaft. Apple cider vinegar is acidic in nature and can help the hair regain its acidic levels. Since apple cider vinegar is very strong, it is essential to use it in the right quantities for the hair.
Please Note: It is very important to use organic, raw, unfiltered and unpasteurized apple cider vinegar for your hair care routine.
Apple cider vinegar contains a component called “The Mother”, which is present in the raw and unrefined apple cider vinegar. The Mother in ACV makes the liquid look like it has a whitish cloud like substance which makes the appearance of the vinegar look murky and unclear. This is due to the presence of the good bacteria and yeast in the ACV, in addition to the strands of proteins and enzymes. ACV with The Mother has the most nutrients and acetic acid in it, which is beneficial to your hair. As The Mother settles at the bottom of the bottle, it is important to shake the bottle well before using it for your hair.
Important note when buying apple cider vinegar: When you buy your ACV, do not shake the bottle, but hold it steady and you will be able to see a murky whitish layer at the bottom. If you do see that layer, that means the ACV contains The Mother, which is necessary. READ MORE – AYURVEDA BATH POWDER FOR CLEAR GLOWING SKIN
Benefits of apple cider vinegar for hair:
- Boosts your hair.
- Gives it a shine.
- Makes hair healthy and reduces frizziness.
- Reduces dandruff and scalp skin infections.
How to use ACV for the hair:
Ingredients:
- 1 cup of filtered water
- 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
(Raw and unfiltered with the mother)
Method: In a cup of filtered water, add in the apple cider vinegar and mix it well.
There are two ways you could use ACV for your hair:
Method 2: In a glass or a jar, add in this mixed apple cider vinegar and water solution and mix it well and set it aside. Comb your hair with a wide tooth comb, to get it tangle free. using wide tooth comb will prevent the hair from breakage and damage and make the untangling process easier. Then wash your hair how you normally would and at the end of your shower, take this mixed solution, shake it well and then gently and very slowly, spray this liquid on your hair and scalp. Do it in portions so you hair and scalp gets evenly coated. Leave the mixture on for 10-15 mins and lightly rinse off with water.
Detox scalp Mask –
- 1 tbsp. of bentonite clay
- 1 tbsp. apple cider vinegar
(Raw and unfiltered with the mother) - 1 tbsp. of water
Method 1: Add clay to mixed apple cider vinegar and water solution to make a paste. Section off the hair and apply it on the scalp. Leave it on for 10 mins before washing your hair with a mild shampoo and conditioner. Pat dry your hair with a towel and use a hair serum to moisturize your skin.
Please Note: Do not over do it. The apple cider vinegar hair rinse should be used just once a month or maximum twice a month and not more than that, as too much acidity for the hair too is not good, as it will cause the hair cuticle to contract and damage the hair. READ MORE – NATURAL HAIR SERUM for longer stronger hair
Caution:
- If this causes any kind of irritation to your hair or scalp, rinse off immediately and discontinue its usage with immediate effect.
- Do not apply it directly onto your scalp or hair, without diluting it as it contains acetic acid, making it caustic (properties to burn or corrode).
- Avoid contact with the eyes, so tilt your head backwards while using this hair care ingredient.