Apple Cider Vinegar

Apple cider vinegar has been a popular pantry staple garnering attention in the world of beauty. Apple cider vinegar is twice fermented apples. When fermented once, it is apple cider, but fermented twice leads to the ever so popular apple cider vinegar. Apple cider vinegar can be found in grocery stores on its own or “with mother”, meaning the combination of yeast and bacteria involved in the fermenting process. This superfood has so many different uses, both internal and external, and the purpose of this article is to highlight its beauty benefits.

Apple cider vinegar helps prevent pimples and acne from forming because of its antibacterial and antifungal properties. Acetic acid helps inhibit bacterial growth and destroys bacterial biofilms. Apple cider vinegar contains alpha hydroxyl acid which removes dead skin cells which encourages the growth of new, healthy skin cells. The malic acid contained in ACV assists in exfoliating the outermost layer of the skin.

Citric acid found in apple cider vinegar encourages cell turnover helps fight age spots and fine wrinkles. Citric acid is a alpha/beta hydroxy acid found in citrus fruits that exfoliates the top layer of the skin to clean out pores. Its astringent properties make ACV a great toner, minimizing pores, controlling oily skin and regulating the skin’s pH. The skin is slightly acidic in nature, and apple cider vinegar can help balance it out.

Although apple cider vinegar helps with a healthier complexion, if applying directly to the skin, make sure that it is combined with filtered water. The acidity of the vinegar could potentially strip the epidermis, its outermost protective outer barrier and cause chemical irritation. Stripping the epidermis can cause infection or scarring.

Apple cider vinegar is found to have many cutaneous benefits when applied safely to the skin. Its antibacterial and antifungal properties helps the tone the skin and help fight wrinkles. The different types of acids: citric, malic and acetic, provide great toning and pH control. Consider incorporating ACV into your beauty routine safely by diluting it with filtered water before applying it to the face!