Can You Cure Your Acne with Apple Cider Vinegar?

Apple cider vinegar (ACV) is a popular home remedy for everything from heartburn to appetite control to mole removal.

ACV is made by fermenting apple cider, or the unfiltered juice from pressed apples. The result is a pungent, highly acidic vinegar.

It has a variety of uses and has become increasingly popular in the natural health community. It’s believed to have many health benefits, including:

• lower blood sugar levels
• weight loss
• a reduced risk of cancer

However, there’s little research to back up many of these claims.

Some people even say it may help with acne, due to its unique chemical composition. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at apple cider vinegar’s potential benefits for acne, along with some of its risks.

Vinegar can kill certain types of bacteria, according to test-tube studies. This happens because of its high acetic acid content, which gives it its acidity. Apple cider vinegar also contains several other organic acids, including (1, 2, 3, 4):

• lactic acid
• gallic acid
• protocatechuic acid
• chlorogenic acid

A bacteria called Propionibacterium acnes, or Cutibacterium acnes, contributes to acne development. Because ACV has been noted to kill certain strains of bacteria, it may also have some bacteria-killing affects P. acnes (5).

However, there’s been no research investigating the effects of ACV or any type of vinegar on P. acnes, much less studies done in humans rather than test tubes.

In addition, vinegar needs to be highly diluted before being applied to your skin, which would dilute the organic acid concentrations further.

Lactic acid in particular is also used to help reduce the appearance of acne scarring — but again, the small amount in diluted ACV is unlikely to have a significant effect (6).

Finally, vinegar is also thin and unlike creams and serums made specifically for the skin, may not make contact with your skin long enough for the beneficial compounds to be adequately absorbed before it evaporates.

Summary

Although ACV contains organic acids bacteria-killing properties, it’s not clear whether it can kill P. acnes, the bacteria responsible for acne. Additionally, ACV needs to be diluted before use — which weakens the organic acid concentrations.

Apple cider vinegar is strongly acidic by nature. Because of this, it may cause burns when applied directly to the skin for long periods of time (7, 8).

In fact, in one study in 22 adults, researchers found that ACV soaks had no positive effects on skin integrity in people with dermatitis — and actually increased irritation in most participants (9).

In most cases, burns occur after ACV has been in contact with the skin for long periods of time. Shorter periods of contact with skin are less likely to cause burns, but they may cause stinging.

So, to prevent skin damage and irritation, ACV should be used only in small amounts and when diluted with water.

You should also avoid using ACV on sensitive skin and open wounds. It’s more likely to cause pain or skin damage in those cases.

Summary

Apple cider vinegar is very acidic. Applying it directly to your skin may cause burns or irritation, and one small study noted that it offered no benefits for skin health.

There’s no evidence to support the use of ACV for acne.

It can cause further inflammation and irritation. It may even cause burns if it’s not diluted correctly before applying it to your face.

Because of these factors, topical ACV may do more harm than good in individuals with acne.

To find an acne treatment that works for you, consult with a dermatologist.

Summary

When it comes to at-home acne treatments, ACV may not be the safest choice. At best, it may have no effect or cause some irritation. At worst, it can cause chemical burns to your skin. Talk with a dermatologist to find a more effective and safer acne treatment.

Just one thing

Try this today: Did you know that certain foods may help boost your skin’s health and appearance? Check out our list of the 12 best foods for healthy skin. Try to gradually incorporate more of these foods into your diet to give your skin what it needs to flourish.

Apple Cider Vinegar For Acne: How To Use It, Cautions + More

What are the skin clearing benefits of apple cider vinegar?

For some skin types, an at-home apple cider vinegar toner may prove to be successful in exfoliating and staving off acne. For others, though, it might not do the trick—and it will cause irritation if not diluted. For skin care purposes, and many other health-boosting uses (internally and externally, such as on the hair and scalp), unfiltered apple cider vinegar is preferred. This is because unfiltered apple cider vinegar contains what is known as the “mother,” or the murky, brown-tinged strands of bacteria and enzymes that are thought to be the source of many of the elixir’s benefits. While there haven’t been any research studies specifically on apple cider vinegar and acne, ACV does have many research-backed properties that may be responsible for its purported ability to help tame breakouts:

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1. It may help balance the skin’s pH.

If you’ve ever sipped or smelled it, you can tell right away that apple cider vinegar is acidic—like, very acidic. On the pH scale of 0 (acidic) to 14 (alkaline), ACV lies between 2 and 3. Healthy skin with a strong and intact barrier is also slightly acidic, with an ideal pH level of 5.5, while compromised skin barriers (including those with skin issues such as eczema and rosacea) typically have a higher, more alkaline pH level. So, it stands to reason, then, that using apple cider vinegar on the skin could help to restore its natural, slightly acidic pH levels—but some dermatologists, and research studies1, don’t support this. “It’s been reported that the lower pH of ACV may help rebalance the skin pH and improve skin barrier function in conditions like atopic dermatitis, where the pH is more alkaline,” explains holistic board-certified dermatologist Keira Barr, M.D. “However, [some] studies don’t support it.”

2.

Acts as a chemical exfoliant.

Apple cider vinegar is also quite an efficient chemical exfoliant. It’s naturally chock-full of alpha-hydroxy acids (AHAs), including some of the same compounds that are formulated into our favorite toners and facial peels to help slough off dead skin. Specifically, ACV contains “alpha-hydroxy acids like lactic, citric, and malic acids,” Barr says. When applied topically, these acids work to “exfoliate the uppermost layers of the skin, revealing skin that appears smoother and more hydrated.” As we know, using chemical exfoliants regularly over time can also help even out and smooth skin tone, potentially minimizing the appearance of acne scars. However, while this may be true anecdotally and in theory, Barr points out that currently, there isn’t good scientific data to support ACV’s acne-scar-fading abilities. 

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3.

It has antifungal and antibacterial properties.

Exfoliation aside, though, these natural AHAs are still multipurpose; in addition to exfoliation, acetic acid also “has antifungal and antibacterial properties that may help kill the bacteria that causes acne,” Barr explains. Research has also confirmed that citric acid2 and lactic acid3 can both kill Cutibacterium acnes (formerly known as Propionibacterium acnes, or P. acnes), a type of bacteria on the skin that has been shown to contribute to the development of acne.

How to make an apple cider vinegar toner: DIY Recipe

1. Mix your apple cider vinegar with water.

Apple cider vinegar must be diluted when used as a DIY toner. Because it is so acidic, “if not diluted properly, ACV can give you superficial chemical burns4 and skin irritation,” explains board-certified dermatologist Dhaval Bhanusali, M.D.

Use one-part vinegar to three or four parts water (for sensitive skin types, even more water). Additionally, “before using it on your face for the first time, it’s a good idea to try a test spot on your skin to make sure you won’t have an adverse reaction,” Barr says. 

• Severe acne: 1-part apple cider vinegar to 3-parts water
• Moderate acne: 1-part apple cider vinegar to 4-parts water
• Sensitive skin: 1-part apple cider vinegar to 5-parts water

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And because this home-made toner won’t have the same stabilizers or preservatives as your store-bought options, you’ll need to make it fresh before use. Try mixing each single-use dose in a shot glass—that way you won’t waste ACV.

2. Apply to skin as tolerated.

To use this diluted apple cider vinegar and water mixture as a toner, apply it with a cotton ball or reusable cloth pads onto clean skin. Start low and slow; apply a small amount of the toner to skin for just a few minutes before rinsing off. If it’s well tolerated, Barr says you can increase the amount of toner used, or the length of time you leave it on the skin—but never leave ACV on your skin for longer than 15 minutes. After rinsing off completely, apply a moisturizer. Barr recommends using ACV toner one to three times per week, as tolerated.

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3. Consider using it as a spot treatment.

If it’s only a few areas you want to target—say your chin, T-zone, or even one zit in particular—you might not need to treat the entire face with the toner. When used as a spot treatment, the same rules apply, just narrow your application areas. This will help dry out individual blemishes without having to treat the whole face. 

Who shouldn’t use it:

For those with naturally dry skin, using an apple cider vinegar toner may prove to be overly drying. If you have an open wound, including pimples or pustules that have come to a head (or been popped), applying apple cider vinegar topically might also sting. If you have highly sensitive or very acne-prone skin your skin barrier is generally compromised, so it’s always wise to consult a dermatologist before applying any DIY mixtures onto your complexion, ACV or otherwise. “Especially for people with very sensitive skin, applying ACV directly to the skin can be very damaging,” Barr explains. “When applied at full concentration on the skin, there is a risk of causing redness, irritation, and severe chemical burns.”

The bottom line:

In sum, research has shown that the acidic compounds (including powerful alpha-hydroxy acids) in apple cider vinegar work to both exfoliate the skin’s surface and kill acne-causing bacteria. Other touted benefits of apple cider vinegar, including its ability to fade acne scars and balance a compromised skin barrier, are more controversial. However, you’ll hear plenty of first-person anecdotes singing its praise. Just be mindful of how you use it.

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Apple cider vinegar for acne: does it really help?

Apple cider vinegar for acne: does it really help?

Apple Cider Vinegar is a unique and all natural remedy that has many different uses : from cleaning the house to resolving various skin problems.

Apple Cider Vinegar has special antimicrobial properties, making it an excellent cleaner. It also helps with joint pain and soothes the discomfort of sunburn. And taking vinegar inside (0.5–1 tsp per glass of water) alkalizes the body, improves metabolism and helps to lose weight. Rinsing with a solution of vinegar makes the hair shiny and easier to comb. The many uses for apple cider vinegar make it an indispensable home remedy.

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The effects of apple cider vinegar on acne have not been extensively studied in the lab, but there is some evidence that its use does reduce acne. How does apple cider vinegar make skin healthy ?

Bioactive components of apple cider vinegar

Apple cider vinegar is a byproduct of the fermentation of apples, sugar and wild yeasts. It contains numerous compounds that are beneficial for the skin:

Pectin . This ingredient is often used to make homemade jams. A 2011 study showed that apple-derived pectin may have an anti-aging effect by stimulating epidermal growth.

Vitamin B3 (also known as niacin or niacinamide) reduces pores, uneven skin tone and fine lines. In a study conducted in 1995, vitamin B3 was found to be as effective as clindamycin gel in treating acne.

Vitamin B5 (pantothenic acid) improves wound healing.

Vitamin B7 (Biotin) strengthens hair and nails and is essential for healthy skin. A lack of biotin is known to lead to eczema and other types of inflammation.

Vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant that helps reverse the physical signs of aging. In addition, it is essential for the biosynthesis of collagen, a major structural protein that helps restore skin elasticity, speed up wound healing, and keep skin cells healthy.

Magnesium . A study on magnesium salt from the Dead Sea found that magnesium improves skin barrier function, reduces inflammation, and improves hydration.

Apple cider vinegar fights acne causing bacteria

Natural apple cider vinegar has long been used to kill germs, bacteria and viruses. Apple cider vinegar is a much milder option than classic white distilled vinegar, but it contains acetic, lactic, citric, and succinic acids, all of which fight acne-causing bacteria.

Vinegar’s main cleanser, Acetic Acid , helps to disinfect the skin. A 2012 study found that acetic acid mixed with essential oils reduced the appearance of acne by 75% .

Classified as an alpha hydroxy acid (AHA), lactic acid is created in apple cider vinegar by fermenting sugars. During the study in 2002, was found to reduce inflammatory manifestations and the number of comedones.

Citric acid , found in fruits and vegetables, is widely used in the cosmetics industry. A 2016 study found that, when combined with zinc oxide, citric acid was able to destroy Propionibacterium in as little as 24 hours after topical application.

Powerful Anti-Inflammatory Succinic Acid is a short chain fatty acid that has been shown to inhibit the growth of P. acnes bacteria both when ingested and applied topically.

Apple cider vinegar helps clear up acne

Acne may leave red, purple or brown spots on the skin. Although there are many natural home remedies to get rid of them, in severe cases, dermabrasion, chemical or laser peels have to be used to remove the top layers of the skin.

Using organic acids to remove the effects of acne is a gentler way to clear damaged skin and expose healthier underlying layers.

In a small study in 2010, scientists analyzed the effects of pure lactic acid (92% concentration) as a chemical treatment to remove scars and discolor the effects of acne. Participants applied lactic acid every two weeks for a maximum of four times. At the end of the 3-month period, 14% of patients had almost complete improvement in skin condition (greater than 75% of surface), 43% had significant improvement (from 51% to 75% of surface), and 28% had moderate improvement (26%–50%) , and 14% had a slight improvement (from 1% to 25%).

How to use

Always dilute apple cider vinegar before applying it to the skin!

Apple cider vinegar contains acids and may cause burns if applied undiluted. Never use apple cider vinegar on open wounds.

Apple cider vinegar should be diluted in water in approximately the following ratios (depending on skin type):

• oily skin – 1:1;
• normal skin – 1:2;
• dry skin – 1:3;
• sensitive skin – 1:4.

First, do a little test to see how your skin reacts to vinegar. To do this, simply apply a small amount of diluted vinegar to a sensitive area, such as the inside of your wrist or behind your ear. If discomfort occurs after application, rinse immediately. If everything is in order, leave for 24 hours. If after that there is no reaction, you can safely use vinegar on the skin of the face.

Some people prefer to use a vinegar solution as a spot treatment, while others use it all over the face as a tonic.

If you have an adverse reaction to apple cider vinegar, try adding it to your drinking water instead of topically: this also helps get rid of pimples .

Which apple cider vinegar to use?

Only natural, unpasteurized, organic apple cider vinegar is recommended.

Read more:

Coffee cream – a natural remedy for wrinkles and dark circles under the eyes

Tonic based on parsley heals the skin and relieves acne

Bananas – a natural remedy for wrinkles, warts, acne and psoriasis

Recipes for simple and natural masks for wrinkles

how to cure, remove marks from rashes and avoid recurrence

Conventional acne remedies such as salicylic acid, niacinamide, retinol or azelaic acid are certainly very effective, but , firstly, they can punch a hole in the budget, and secondly, they have side effects: redness, peeling and a feeling of tightness. This is what motivates us to look for alternative (read: homemade) ways to improve skin condition.

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The editors warn readers against self-treatment and do not recommend self-diagnosis, prescribing medications or procedures. For any signs of malaise, contact your doctor.

Yes, home remedies have no scientific basis and further research is needed on their effectiveness, but if you are looking for alternative treatments, then after consulting with a dermatologist, you can try them.

What causes acne?

Acne begins when pores become clogged with sebum and dead skin cells. Each pore is connected to a sebaceous gland that produces an oily substance called sebum. Excess sebum can clog pores, causing bacteria to grow, leading to inflamed skin and acne.

And the development of acne can be influenced by:

• genetics;
• food;
• stress;
• hormonal changes;
• infections.

Are you familiar with the problem of acne?

Home remedies that can cure acne

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1. Apple Cider Vinegar

Like other vinegars, it is known for its ability to fight many types of bacteria and fungi. Although some components of apple cider vinegar help with acne, there is currently no evidence to support its use for this purpose. Some dermatologists advise not using apple cider vinegar at all, as it can irritate the skin, so weigh the pros and cons carefully.

Instructions for use

1. Mix 1 part apple cider vinegar and 3 parts water (more water for sensitive skin).

2. After cleansing, gently apply the mixture to the skin using a cotton pad.

3. Leave on for a few seconds, rinse with water and dry.

4. Repeat 1-2 times daily as needed.

2. Zinc Supplements

Zinc is an essential component for healthy cell growth, hormone production, metabolism and immunity. Studies show that people with acne tend to have lower levels of zinc in their blood than people with clear skin. Some tests have shown that oral zinc can help reduce acne. The main thing is to choose the right dosage with your doctor.

Be aware that taking too much zinc causes side effects, including stomach pain and intestinal irritation. It is also important to note that applying zinc to the skin has not been proven effective. This may be due to the fact that it is poorly absorbed through the skin.

3. Tea tree oil

Tea tree oil is a powerful agent, so dilute it before applying to the skin.

Instructions for use

1. Mix 1 part tea tree oil with 9 parts water.

2. Soak a cotton pad in the mixture and apply to the affected areas.

3. Apply moisturizer if desired.

4. Repeat 1-2 times daily as needed. Green Tea This is likely due to the fact that the polyphenols in green tea help fight bacteria and reduce inflammation, thereby eliminating the causes of acne.

   You can simply drink green tea, you can take supplements based on this component, and you can also make lotions on the affected area. By the way, the latter option also regulates the production of sebum, thereby giving the skin a porcelain matte finish.

   By the way, look at tonics, serums and creams containing green tea! This is the simplest and most effective action.

   Instructions for use

   1. Brew green tea in boiling water for 3-4 minutes.

   2. Let the tea cool.

   3. Use a cotton pad to apply the tea to your skin or pour it into a spray bottle to use on your face.

   4. Let dry, then rinse with water and pat skin dry.

   5. Witch hazel

   Witch hazel is obtained from the bark and leaves of the North American hamamelis shrub, Hamamelis virginiana. It contains tannins that have strong antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. That is why this plant is used to treat a wide range of skin conditions, including dandruff, eczema, burns, bruises, insect bites, and even acne.

   Research also shows that witch hazel can fight bacteria and reduce skin irritation and inflammation that contribute to acne.

   Directions for use

   1. Mix 1 tablespoon witch hazel bark and 1 cup water in a small saucepan.

   2. Soak the witch hazel for 30 minutes, then bring the mixture to a boil on the stove and cook covered for 10 minutes.

   3. Remove from heat and let stand for another 10 minutes.

   4. Strain and store the liquid in a sealed container.

   5. Apply to clean skin with a cotton pad 1-2 times daily or as desired.

   Read also: How to get rid of post-acne: all methods – from home to professional lo. And not just like that! Aloe gel is commonly used to treat abrasions, rashes, burns, and other skin conditions. When applied to the skin, aloe vera gel accelerates wound healing, heals burns and helps fight inflammation by normalizing local immunity.

   Instructions for use

   1. Scrape the gel off the aloe vera leaves with a spoon.

   2. Apply gel directly to clean skin instead of moisturizer.

   3. Repeat 1-2 times daily or as desired.

   You can also buy aloe gel in the store! Choose products with a minimum amount of additives.

   7. Fish oil supplements

   Omega-3 fatty acids are fats that are incredibly beneficial to our body. Fish oil contains two main types of omega-3 fatty acids, eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA).

   High levels of EPA and DHA are thought to reduce inflammatory factors, which may reduce the risk of acne. Dosage – you guessed it! – also need to be selected with a specialist.

   You can also include salmon, sardines, anchovies, walnuts, chia seeds and ground flax seeds in your diet.

   Read also: Why You Should Take Omega-3: 17 Scientifically Proven Benefits

   8. Exfoliate

   Exfoliation is the process of removing the top layer of dead skin cells of the epidermis. To do this, you can use chemicals or mechanically exfoliate the skin with a brush or scrub.

   Exfoliation improves acne-prone skin. It also helps medical and cosmetic products to penetrate deeper and be even more effective.

   Please note that mechanical exfoliation, such as harsh scrubs or brushes, can irritate and damage the skin. Dermatologists recommend paying attention to mild chemical exfoliation with products based on salicylic or glycolic acid.

   How to make a scrub at home

   1. Mix equal parts sugar (or salt) and coconut oil.

   2. Gently wipe the skin with the mixture and rinse well.

   3. Repeat 1-2 times a week.

   9. Low Glycemic Diet

   The relationship between diet and acne has been discussed for years. Eating foods with a high glycemic index (GI) causes an insulin spike, which likely increases sebum production. As a result, high GI foods can directly influence the development and severity of acne.

   High glycemic foods include processed foods:

   • white bread;
   • sweetened soft drinks;
   • cakes;
   • donuts;
   • baked goods;
   • candies;
   • sweet breakfast cereals.

   Low glycemic foods include:

   • fruits;
   • vegetables;
   • legumes;
   • nuts;
   • whole or minimally processed grain.

   10. Cut down on dairy

   The relationship between dairy and acne is controversial. Milk and dairy products contain hormones (such as IGF-1) that have been linked to the development of acne. But at the same time, not all studies confirm a direct link between the occurrence of inflammation on the skin and dairy products.

   11. Reduce stress

   Funny, we understand. But still. The relationship between stress and acne is not fully understood. But there is evidence that hormones released during times of stress can increase sebum production and inflammation, making acne worse.