Introduction
Acne is one skin diseases that is common in younger generations but may affect the later years also; with estimates putting it at affecting millions of people. Though there are numerous products readily available in the market for skin problems such as creams and face washes, many people today like to opt for home remedies. One of the natural remedies that have come to light in the recent past is the Apple Cider Vinegar or the (ACV).
Made from fermented apple juice, ACV is said to have numerous health benefits that include fat loss and an improvement in digestion. It has been accepted in the beauty world due to its properties such as treating acne, helping to exfoliate the skin and controlling the PH level. This article is a complete guide to using apple cider vinegar for acne: the advantages and disadvantages, how to do it properly.
Why Pick Apple Cider Vinegar in Treating Acne?
A clogging of hair follicles by oil and dead skin is the main cause of acne. This is true although hormonal differences act as the main cause, other factors that are known to cause acne include bacteria, over production of oil, irregular skin ph. These problems can be solved with Apple cider vinegar because of its antibacterial, exfoliating, and pH balancing abilities. But knowing how to apply the software correctly is of paramount importance so that maximum benefits with minimal risks can be achieved. In this guide, you will get to know all the basics regarding using ACV in the treatment of acne-prone skin.
Understanding Apple Cider Vinegar
What is Apple cider vinegar?
The apple cider vinegar is a product derived from crushed apples and it is a type of vinegar. The fermentation process involves two steps: first the sugar in apples to crushed and made available for yeast where the sugars would has been fermented into alcohol. In the second step, bacteria change the alcohol to acetic acid, the key working ingredient of ACV As a reminder, bacteria are used in the fermentation process. This is the acetic acid that gives ACV a pungent smell and a tangy flavor but there is so much more to this, it has antibacterial and anti inflammating attributes
ACV contains a mixture of acids, including:ACV contains a mixture of acids, including:
Acetic acid: Popular for having antibacterial effects or that is bacteriostatic in nature.
Lactic acid: These are what are usually removed by the natural exfoliants; they are bad as they affect the skin in that they do not allow the skin to regenerate naturally.
Citric acid: Increases the level of collagen synthesis and contributes skin repair.
ACV’s Components That Help The Skin
Each component of ACV contributes to its effectiveness in treating acne:
Acetic acid: Deploys to fight bacteria and fungi which are known to be causes of acne and skin related complications.
Alpha Hydroxy Acids (AHAs): These assist to remove the skin’s dead layer, which consists of thickened skin cells which block pores leading to breakout.
Vitamins and minerals: ACV has small amounts of vitamins such as Vitamin C and Vitamin B that aids the skin positively.
Work of these components is in harmony hence working well in diminishing of acne and gaining better looking skin. Nonetheless, one has to ensure they are using ACV correctly since it may cause some irritation given its acidity.
Advantages Associated with The Use of Apple Cider Vinegar For Acne
ACV for Skin, especially as an exfoliant.
It is also essential to note that different kinds of AHAs are present in the ACV hence making it a natural exfoliant. The thing that is very essential when it comes to skin care is exfoliation and it is very vital for those who constantly find themselves with acne. Dulling and dead skin accumulates on the skin surface and must be exfoliated as they block the facial pores thus causing breakthrough acne. If you apply the ACV on the skin and make it stick for sometime then rinse with warm water, you are able to gently exfoliate the skin and remove this layer of dead skin hence encouraging cell regeneration and growth of healthy skin on the scalp.
The natural acids in ACV affect the natur al bonds present in the skin and hence helps with the shedding of the dead skin cells. In the long run, the skin becomes smoother, clearer and acne free since the dead cells are removed to pave way for the new healthy skin cells.
Mitigating The Skin’s Ph Levels
Another advantage of using ACV which is not very well known is that it aids in regulating skin’s acidity level. Human skin has an isolative slightly acidic pH, which range between 4 and 5. 5 and 5. 5, which the body needs to keep the skin‘ s barrier intact for proper functioning. Various creams, washes and eve environmental conditions may cause the skin to become either over acidic or over alkaline. both of which can lead to skin issues like dryness, oiliness, and breakouts.
It has been also found that ACV, as it is somewhat acidic, can balance pH of the skin as soon as it is applied in its dilution. This balance is by far important in ensuring that the skin acts as a barrier to bad bacteria and other irritating substances.
Antibacterial Properties
acne vulgaris, the presence of bacteria, specifically Propionibacterium acnes (P. acnes), the bacteria that reside on the surface of the skin and play the role of inflammation in breakouts. Apple cider vinegar also contains acetic acid which has been found to possess the ability of eradicating pesticide and other bacteria which are associated with the production of acne. When diluted, applying ACV topically rubs off the skin allowing it to decrease bacterial count on the skin hence minimizing occurrences of new pimples.
Anti-inflammatory Properties
That’s why inflammation becomes one of the significant contributors to the severity of acne. After the skin pores have been blocked by the oily secretion and the skin debris, the immune system is set into motion and leads to inflammation of the pimples, and show itself in the form of redness, swelling, and pain. These non-comedogenic and anti-inflammatory properties of ACV may alleviate such symptoms as redness of pimples, inflammation of skin.)
Demerits associated with apple cider vinegar for acne.
Despite the possibility of using ACV for various advantages to acne skin, it is also possible to have a few drawbacks, mostly when not properly applied.
Potential Skin Irritation
Side effects that are associated with topical application of apple cider vinegar mostly include skin irritation. However, as pointed out above, pure ACV is extremely acidic it is likely to cause skin irritation, redness, burning sensation, or even chemical burns. The safe use of ACV should be used with a considerable precaution especially if one has sensitive skin of an open wound. While using ACV it is always advisable to dilute it with water since it is stronger in its raw form and may cause skin irritation.
Sun Sensitivity
There is also a potential disadvantage associated with the use of ACV for the skin; it makes the skin to be sensitive to the sun. This is especially the case with ACV when it is used as an exfoliant; this is because it scrapes off the outer layer of skin, in the process exposing the new skin which is more sensitive than the underlying layer of skin. If you use ACV on your skin, it’s crucial to follow up with sunscreen, especially if you’re applying it during the day.
Overuse Concerns
Like any skincare ingredient, overusing apple cider vinegar can lead to negative effects. Applying ACV too frequently or in high concentrations can disrupt the skin’s natural pH balance, leading to dryness, irritation, or even chemical burns. Moderation is key when using ACV for acne.
How to use Apple cider vinegar for acne.
Apple cider vinegar has gaining popularity in treatment and management of many diseases with acne not being exceptional.
That is why when applying apple cider vinegar for acne, you need to take some precaution so that you get the benefits from it without having negatives. Below are different ways through which you can use ACV in your skincare regime.
Here in this article, a step by step guide on how topical application can be done has been highlighted.
Dilute the ACV: Using one cup pour the ACV and 3 cups of water. ACV is recommended for individuals with sensitive skin, however those who have plenty of skin breakouts; they should dilute the solution with five parts of water or even four.
Cleanse your face: Cleansing tips: Rinse your face with a mild soap or a face wash that helps to clear dirt, oil, makeup and other clogs.
Apply the ACV solution: Hence, taking a cotton pad or ball dip it in diluted ACV solution and then rub it on the parts of your skin that has acne.
Let it sit: After that rinse off the solution with water and wash the area where it was applied, 5-10 min before the washing process.
Rinse off: After that, splash water on the face, and wash it with cool water then gently pat the skin with a clean napkin.
Moisturize: Afterwards, apply a moisturizer to your skin to replace loss moisture and keep your skin healthy.
Why not target the scalp when washing hair, and then use ACV as a toner in between washing Clothes and dressing up.
ACV can also be used as a skin tonic to reduce skin’s pH level thus minimizing secretion of oils on the skin surface. To use ACV as a toner, follow these steps:
Mix the solution: Dilute 1 to 3 ratio of ACV and water in a small sized bottle.
Apply after cleansing: Finally, to remove facial excess oil and prepare the skin surface for an effective absorption of the other components in ACV, wash your face then proceed to use the cotton pad to apply the toner.
Leave on the skin: What makes the toner different from other applications is that you don’t have to wash it off with water with the exception of if your skin becomes sensitive.
Use regularly: They suggest you should apply this toner two or three times a day, but this depends on how your skin would respond to this treatment.
ACV Spot Treatment
For persistent acne or pimples you can use ACV for spot treatment for your skin as it is effective in treating acne and pimples. One can value its use in applying a more concentrated solution to individual pimples in order to reduce inflammation as well as dry out the pimples.
Create a spot treatment solution: Dilute apple cider vinegar, with water, use one part apple cider vinegar and two parts of water.
Apply to blemishes: Take a cotton swab and immerse it in the solution and then apply it gently on pimples or areas that are red or swollen.
Let it sit: Rinse off the spot treatment after ten to fifteen minutes using cool water only.
ACV Face Mask
If you want to make a face mask to deal with acne it is advisable that you use apple cider vinegar mixed with other natural ingredients such as honey or bentonite clay.
Mix the mask ingredients: You should mix one teaspoon of ACV with one tablespoon of honey or bentonite clay.
Apply to your face: Now apply this mixture evenly over the face but do not apply it around the eyes.
Let it sit: Minimize the time with mask on for 10-15
List of Ingredients together with the Proportions that go into Each Treatment
For ACV Toner
15 ml Apple cider vinegar
Add 3 tablespoons of water if you have a sensitive skin thus use different proportions depending on your skin type.
For ACV Spot Treatment
Apple cider vinegar – 1 teaspoon
2 teaspoons water
For ACV Mask
5ml apple cider vinegar
Our options for the last ingredient are 1 tablespoon honey, 1 tablespoon bentonite clay.
This eliminates the chances of scratching the skin thus causing irritation and optimizes for the effects of ACV in cases of acne treatment.
Caution When Using ACV for Acne
Dilution Instructions
The major issue to do with the use of ACV is the concentration and this is where dilution comes into play. Do not use APPLE CIDER VINEGAR on skin as it is which can be dangerous that can lead to burns your skin. The basic proportion should be equal to one to three, ACV to water, but it all can be adjusted according to the skin reaction. People with very sensitive skin may require even a 1:4 or a 1:5 solution.
Patch Testing
So as to avoid worsening your skin’s condition when using ACV on the faces of all individuals, it is essential to assess skin tolerance first, hence conducting the patch test. This entails rubbing some of that diluted ACV on a less conspicuous part of the body, for instance, the inner part of your arm or behind the ear to see if there are negative effects. If your skin becomes red, itchy or even burn, then it is important not to apply ACV on your face.
Avoiding Sensitive Areas
Apple cider vinegar can also burn your skin if you use it in areas that have sensitive skin especially the eyes, the mouth or the mucous membrane. In essence, there are brow areas of the skin which should not be exposed to ACV in any way, and these include:
Real-World Opinion: Is ACV Good for Acne?
Dermatologist Views on ACV
Some dermatologists affirm the usefulness of apple cider vinegar in being used to treat acne, but at the same time advise against their use and misuse. According to Dr. Joshua Zeichner, a board certified dermatologist, although the component of ACV associated with antibacterial and exfoliating accentuates the skin benefits the product, the high acidic level can potentially harm the skin. He suggests that it should be utilised appropriately and then mixed with water.
References by Other Scholars and Journalists Based on Experiences In various case studies, scholars and other writers have come up with various usages of ACV as follows:
Research done to the ACV for acne treatment among the different users has yielded varying results in their experiences. Some attest to having more glowing skin within weeks of using ACV as a toner or spot treatment the others develop skin sensitivity or breakouts. I believe this is where the ratio of dilution and frequency of application for one’s skin type falls into play.
Amazing Uses for Apple Cider Vinegar on the Skin
ACV and Honey Mask
Honey has this property of moisturizing and easing dry skin and it has antibacterial properties as well when combined with apple cider vinegar, makes a perfect match for an acne mask.
1 teaspoon ACV
1 tablespoon honey
Combine the two and spread it on the face. Wash it off with warm water after allowing the paste to sit on the skin for about 10-15 minutes.
ACV and Green tea Toner
It is also good to note that green tea is loaded with antioxidants, and therefore it can come in handy when one wants to minimize inflammation. As with so many other things, ginger root used with ACV yields a great toner for acne skin.
1 tablespoon ACV
2 tablespoons brewed green tea — preferably at room temperature.
It is used by wiping the face using a cotton pad after washing the face with a gentle soap.
ACV and Bentonite Clay Mask
Some of the relevant benefits of bentonite clay include; Bentonite clay is renowned for pulling out toxins from the skin. If used together with ACV, it will make a perfect mask for people with acne prone skin.
1 teaspoon ACV
1 tablespoon bentonite clay
Mix the ingredients to form a paste. Apply to your face, leave on for 10-15 minutes, and then rinse off with warm water.
ACV for Different skin types
ACV for Oily Skin
For people suffering from oily skin, apple cider vinegar is beneficial since it reduces the production of oil on the skin’s surface. People with oily skin skin have a higher secretion rate of sebum, which results to formation of acne since the pores are blocked. In regard to oiliness Acv brings skin Ph balance and a small breakout of the skin surface to reduce blackheads.
While applying this on the oily skin you can use a more concentrated solution that is, a solution that has a ratio of 1:2 (ACV to water) and remember over-usage may cause skin irritation.
ACV for Combination Skin
However, when the skin has both oily and dry patches, one needs to be very particular on how to manage it. When applying ACV, it is advisable to apply it on the oily areas of your face such as the T-zone but in cases where the other parts of your face are dry, you either don’t apply the ACV or apply a weak solution.
ACV for Dry Skin
People with dry skin should use ACV with a lot of precautions, and one could consider avoiding its use altogether. Though it is beneficial for treating acne it can be quite drying if applied too often and not diluted properly. In case you wish to use a stronger mixture apply it in small amounts and wash it off after a few minutes to avoid further drying of the skin and then apply a moisturizer that is rich in amino acids.
Side Effects and Risks
Allergic Reactions
Others may have an allergy to ACV or even develop an allergy if they use the vinegar as a topical application. Some of the signs of an allergic reaction are inflammation, rash, itching and in special cases, rashes that are in the form of bubbles. The safety of ALLMAX Nutrition’s products has not been established for anyone under the age of 18, pregnant or nursing women, and people with any pre-existing medical conditions If you experience any of the following symptoms: halt use and seek medical attention: nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, abdomen pain, headache and breathing difficulty.
Increased Sun Sensitivity
As stated in the previous sections, application of ACV may cause your skin to become sensitive to the sun. This is due to the fact that while the process of exfoliating takes of the layer of the dead skin cells the new skin that is formed is sensitive to ultraviolet radiation. To avoid sunburn or damage, always apply sunscreen after using ACV, especially if you’re applying it during the day.
Burning or Stinging Sensation
If after using ACV, you feel a burning or stinging sensation; then it is high time you diluted it because it is highly concentrated. Some people had their skin become too red so wash your face with running water and dilute the ACV more before applying again.
Apple cider vinegar can really be helpful when it comes to treating skin imperfections and one wonders best time to use it for acne.
Night-time Application Tips
You should apply ACV for acne at night. It helps your skin to regenerate in case it experienced any form of irritation during the day and also it helps to avoid sun amp; sensitivity in the morning. If you have applied ACV, ensure that you wash it off with water but make sure that you follow it up with a moisturizer to ensure that your skin does not dry up.
The effected area should not be exposed to direct sunlight until the solution is completely dried up from the skin.
If you do choose to use ACV during the day, it’s advisable to either stay out of the sun or make sure that use a good broad spectrum sunscreen with at least an SPF of 30. This shall come in handy in safeguarding your skin from the effects of the ultra violet radiation hence preventing skin irritation.
Just how frequently should one administer apple cider vinegar?
Daily vs. Weekly Application
Some people can use ACV often while others should do so sparingly because of the effects the toner has on their skin. ACV should be applied on the skin daily as a toner to help reduce the development of acne for some people. Some others may be comfortable with using it on a weekly basis only, which should be enough to get the results without having an irritated skin.
Signs of Overuse
It is important one detaches from using apple cider vinegar, if one’s skin becomes red, dry or irritated. Use the application less often, or use a weaker solution. This is why it is advisable to fine tune one’s ears to the kind of signals that the skin is sending out.
Natural Treatment for Acne in the Next Ten Years
Increase Demand of ACV and other Natural Remedies
With the current trends of people going organic on skincare, products such as apple cider vinegar are being used more frequently. Customers are becoming more aware of the substances that they apply on their skin, resulting to increase in the consumption and use of organic products for most skin ailments such as acne.
Scientific and Development in Asian Cosmetic Vegetable Skincare
This is also the reason why currently there is an active research on the effectiveness of the remedies for which apple cider vinegar also belongs to. Although there are more researches required to explain how ACV helps in acne, initial study and real-life experience are positive.
Conclusion
ACV is a concoction that is easily obtainable off the shelf and works well for acne as it helps in exfoliation, killing of bacteria and regulation of skin pH as well. Still, one needs to use ACV appropriately by diluting it and not applying it too frequently as it may cause itching. Although ACV for skin might not be effective for everybody it is however a cheap and efficient means that many people who wants to clear skin naturally can consider.
It could be used as a toner, as a spot treatment or even as a face mask and therefore is worth incorporating into your skincare regimes. The only thing one needs to bear in mind is to take all the required precautions and, most importantly, listen to one’s skin to determine what is best.