Apple cider vinegar, commonly called ACV, is a versatile ingredient found in many kitchens. Often used as a flavor enhancer, apple cider vinegar makes a tasty salad dressing but offers more than just great taste.
ACV has developed a reputation in both the skincare and wellness spaces as a homeopathic cure-all for a range of medical issues. In addition to helping with indigestion, yeast infections, and skin conditions, ACV has also made a name for itself in hair care.
What Is Apple Cider Vinegar?
Vinegar can be made from a variety of carbohydrates. Normal vinegar can be made from many foods, including grains, beets, and whey, while cider vinegar is made from fruit juices, such as grapes, dates, figs, or apples.
To make ACV, apples are first crushed and pulverized to release their juice, then bacteria and yeast are added to start a fermentation process. The yeast turns the sugars in the juice into alcohol, and then the bacteria converts the alcohol into acetic acid, which is vinegar.
How Can Apple Cider Vinegar Benefit Your Hair?
While the research is limited, there is some evidence to show that ACV is a safe and natural option that can effectively promote hair growth and reduce hair loss.
Research has found that a solution of water and ACV applied to the scalp improved hair growth in mice. Studies also found that ACV can help balance the scalp's pH, which can be beneficial for people with dandruff or an itchy scalp.
While more research is needed to fully understand the effects of ACV on hair loss, it offers a host of potential benefits that can help keep your hair and scalp looking and feeling fabulous.
Some of the potential benefits include:
- Maintaining a healthy scalp: Growing healthy hair requires a healthy scalp. ACV contains antibacterial, anti-fungal, and anti-inflammatory properties, which promote healing and help keep the scalp's pH level balanced.
- Reducing color fading: Hair dyes use harsh chemicals to open the cuticles and enable the color to penetrate. ACV can help close the cuticles of color-treated hair, protecting the hair shaft and helping to keep your color vibrant.
- Strengthens and softens: ACV closes the cuticle, protecting the shaft and strengthening your hair. In addition, ACV leaves behind a protective coating on the cuticle, which leaves your hair soft and shiny.
- Fights frizz and reduces tangles: ACV is a popular treatment option for people with curly or textured hair because it can smooth the hair, tame frizz, and help if your hair is prone to knots or tangles.
Can Apple Cider Vinegar Help with Your Hair Loss?
A wide range of factors cause hair loss for men and women. However, hair experts agree that hair grows best in an optimal environment. By maintaining the health of your scalp and hair follicles, you can ensure that your hair has the environment necessary to reach its full potential.
Apple cider vinegar keeps your hair and scalp clean and healthy by removing the buildup of oil, dirt, and hair products that can clog and damage hair follicles. With its ability to protect the hair shaft and balance the scalp's pH, ACV can help create an ideal environment for hair growth and reduce hair loss.
Experts agree that ACV is safe for all types of hair, including color-treated hair, and is especially beneficial for people with oily hair or significant product buildup. While ACV may be the solution for your hair loss, it's essential to determine the cause to ensure you receive the best treatment option for your condition.
Maintaining a healthy scalp can be challenging without expert advice. At Mane Image, our hair specialist can help you determine the cause of your hair loss and recommend the best steps to keep your thick, luscious, full head of hair. Contact us today to schedule your FREE initial consultation and learn whether apple cider vinegar can help with your hair loss.
