Contrary to popular belief, vinegar—apple cider vinegar, to be exact—may not help you lose weight. But it can help you step up your beauty routine. This multi-tasking ingredient can be used to prevent acne and make nail polish last longer, but that’s just the beginning. Check out all of the ways in which apple cider vinegar can help you look your best.
* Skin SootherAdd eight ounces of apple cider vinegar to a bathtub filled with warm water, and soak in it for 15 minutes. Since the pH level of apple cider vinegar is similar to the pH level of the protective acid mantle layer of our skin, this soak will help restore balance.
* Facial TonerMix together one tablespoon apple cider vinegar and two cups water. Moisten a cotton ball, and swipe the mixture over a clean, dry face to tighten skin. Don’t rinse (the scent will dissipate quickly). Apple cider vinegar’s natural alpha-hydroxy acids and acetic acid will stimulate circulation, as well as minimize pores.
* Hair RinseMix two tablespoons apple cider vinegar with one cup water, and use to douse your hair after washing. Rinse thoroughly, and follow with a light conditioner. The acetic acid in apple cider vinegar will remove residue from product buildup and help you get shiny, lustrous locks.
* Sunburn ReliefMix together 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar and four cups water. Douse a washcloth with the solution, and apply to sunburned skin. Apple cider vinegar helps balance pH levels of skin, promote healing, and prevent blistering.
* Razor Bump RemedyMoisten a cotton ball with undiluted apple cider vinegar, and swipe over problem area. For especially aggravated bumps, try applying a light layer of honey to the area first, let stand for five minutes, then rinse, dry, and apply the vinegar. The anti-inflammatory properties of apple cider vinegar soothe irritated skin, and acetic acid softens skin to help ingrown hairs grow out more easily.