Your kitchen is full of endless beauty possibilities. From DIY face masks to oils that will make your lashes and brows grow, so many of your favorite foods can find a perfect fit in your beauty routine. One ingredient that you likely have on hand, yet don’t use often, is likely to be your next beauty secret. If you don’t already have some apple cider vinegar on hand, then now is the time to grab a bottle.
Apples alone offer many beauty benefits. They boost your body’s levels of vitamin C, which results in an increased production of collagen. Collagen works to make your skin stronger and more elastic, preserving your youthful glow. Eating an apple a day is always a great idea, but adding apple cider vinegar to your beauty routine will maximize these results.
Apple cider vinegar is made by squeezing the liquid out of apples and then adding bacteria and yeast, causing the liquid to ferment. This process converts sugar into alcohol, which is then fermented again to turn the alcohol into vinegar.
Keep reading to learn the amazing beauty benefits of apple cider vinegar.
# Soothes and exfoliates the skinApple cider vinegar offers anti-inflammatory properties, making it a great pick for anyone with sensitive skin. If you find yourself facing redness and irritation this summer, apple cider vinegar can be your new solution to calming your skin. Simply soak a cotton pad in some water with apple cider vinegar and gently distribute it all over your face. As apple cider vinegar can be extremely concentrated and powerful, it’s best to dilute it prior to use.
If you’re looking for a gentle way to exfoliate your skin, then apple cider vinegar is the answer. This pantry staple includes the ingredient acetic acid, which contains alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs) to chemically exfoliate the skin, removing dead skin and revealing soft, smooth skin. For a spa-like treatment, add a cup of apple cider vinegar to your next bath.
# Prevents and treats acneOften, pimples and acne are often brought on by bacteria. Apple cider vinegar is antibacterial, antifungal and antiviral, though, making it great for both preventing and treating breakouts. By keeping your skin clean, you are much less likely to form breakouts. As mentioned, apple cider vinegar removes dead skin cells, helping your skin avoid a buildup of bacteria.
Follow the mentioned tip (soaking a cotton pad with apple cider vinegar and water) to help prevent and treat blemishes. For a spot treatment, simply use a cotton swab to apply directly to your blemishes.
# Fights dandruffApple cider vinegar is a great ingredient to help keep your scalp clean and clear of dandruff. Just as your skin, apple cider vinegar gently exfoliates your scalp to rid it of bacteria and yeast, which result in the buildup of dandruff. You can add some to water to treat your scalp before shampooing or add some directly to your normal bottle of shampoo.
# Tones skinIf you have oily skin, you’ll love the wonders apple cider vinegar can work. This ingredient acts as a natural astringent, removing dirt, oil and grime from your skin’s surface. These are often the culprits for breakouts, especially if your oily skin tends to clog easily. Apple cider vinegar also absorbs excess oil production, helping to keep your skin even and balanced.