In the realm of wellness trends, the wonders of apple cider vinegar extend beyond gut health, transcending into the realm of hair care. Hairstylists, trichologists, and dermatologists unanimously affirm that the benefits of apple cider vinegar for hair are not merely a passing fad; they are myriad and substantial. Unlike its consumable counterpart, apple cider vinegar for hair care is a topical solution, seamlessly integrated into routines in lieu of traditional products such as shampoo, conditioner, and rinses, all working synergistically to elevate the overall health and appearance of hair.
Renowned trichologist and master stylist Dawn Bacchi, speaking to Glamour, attests to the remarkable advantages of apple cider vinegar for hair, a sentiment echoed by Adam Federico, R+Co Vice President of Technical Education. Federico highlights that apple cider vinegar contributes to the restoration of balance to an irritated scalp, leaving hair looking healthy and shiny.
However, before diving headfirst into the world of apple cider vinegar hair care, Bacchi advises individuals to consider their hair and scalp condition. For those with dry hair or a dry scalp, caution is recommended, as the use of apple cider vinegar may exacerbate dryness. Board-certified dermatologist Marisa Garshick concurs, cautioning against its application for those with sensitive skin and emphasizing moderation to minimize potential irritation.
Despite these considerations, the accessibility and ease of DIY apple cider vinegar rinses have catapulted it into the realm of hair care staples. To fully grasp the benefits without compromising scalp or hair health, experts delineate precise ways to leverage apple cider vinegar effectively.
The Multifaceted Benefits of Apple Cider Vinegar for Hair
1. Anti-Bacterial and Anti-Fungal Properties: Celebrity hairstylist Clyde Haygood emphasizes that apple cider vinegar’s clarifying properties eliminate product buildup while promoting a healthy scalp through its anti-bacterial and anti-fungal attributes.
2. Maintains pH Balance: Certified trichologist Adam Bennett underscores the significance of maintaining the scalp’s proper pH, and apple cider vinegar, with its lower pH, proves instrumental in achieving this balance.
3. Build-Up Removal Without Drying: Federico notes that apple cider vinegar’s clarifying properties delicately cleanse the hair, removing residues without stripping natural oils, preserving the hair’s moisture balance.
4. Clarifies and Cleanses: Bacchi asserts that applying apple cider vinegar effectively eliminates environmental and product residue buildup, leaving hair exceptionally clean and shiny.
5. Soothes Scalp Itchiness: Dr. Garshick highlights the anti-inflammatory benefits of apple cider vinegar, improving scalp health and reducing itching.
6. Reduces Flaking: Haygood suggests that apple cider vinegar aids in achieving proper pH balance, subsequently reducing flakes for individuals dealing with dandruff.
7. Promotes Shine: Haygood and Bennett agree that apple cider vinegar removes build-up, closes hair cuticles, and enhances shine by making hair more light-reflective.
8. Combats Greasy Hair: By balancing pH, apple cider vinegar primes the scalp for optimal functioning, reducing oil production, as noted by Federico.
9. Boosts Volume: Ideal for fine, limp hair, apple cider vinegar removes oil and product buildup, providing volume and lift, according to Haygood.
10. Reduces Frizz: ACV’s cuticle-smoothing properties, as stated by Bacchi and Dr. Garshick, contribute to frizz reduction.
11. Detangles: The acidic nature of apple cider vinegar aids in smoothing the hair cuticle, facilitating detangling and minimizing breakage, explains Bacchi.
12. Smooths and Softens: In addition to detangling, Bennett highlights that apple cider vinegar contributes to smoothing and softening the hair.
13. Protects Hair Color: The cuticle-smoothing effect preserves hair color longevity, as emphasized by Dr. Garshick.
14. Combats Breakage: Bennett asserts that apple cider vinegar’s moisture-retaining properties strengthen hair follicles, preventing split ends and breakage.
Is Apple Cider Vinegar Suitable for All Hair Types?
While universally beneficial, Federico emphasizes that an apple cider vinegar rinse is particularly helpful for fine, limp, and oily hair. Stylists recommend its use on all hair types, with caution for those with dryer hair, suggesting diluted application a few times a month to gauge its impact.
In essence, the rise of apple cider vinegar in hair care signifies a holistic approach to wellness, bridging the gap between health and beauty with tangible, scientifically-backed benefits.
