Hair loss is a common problem that affects both men and women. While genetics play a big role, there are also lifestyle factors that can contribute to hair thinning and loss. Using apple cider vinegar is one natural remedy that some people find helps promote healthy hair growth.
What causes hair loss?
There are many potential causes of hair loss including:
- Hereditary hair loss or pattern baldness
- Hormonal changes like those associated with pregnancy, childbirth, menopause, or thyroid disorders
- Medical conditions like alopecia areata, lichen planopilaris, or lupus
- Medications including those used for cancer, arthritis, depression, heart problems, and high blood pressure
- High stress levels
- Poor nutrition and iron or protein deficiency
- Harsh hair care practices like tight hairstyles, chemical treatments, or heat styling tools
- Scalp infections
For some types of hair loss like male or female pattern baldness, the follicles shrink and hair growth cycles shorten. The exact mechanisms that cause this are not fully understood. Hormones, genetics, and aging play a role. With conditions like alopecia areata, the immune system mistakenly attacks the hair follicles resulting in hair loss.
How does apple cider vinegar help with hair loss?
While more research is still needed, some studies suggest apple cider vinegar may have benefits for treating hair loss and promoting hair growth. Here are some of the ways it is thought to help:
- Balances pH – Apple cider vinegar is acidic with a pH between 4-7. This is closer to the natural pH of hair and may help keep follicles and the scalp in a healthy state.
- Reduces fungal overgrowth – The acetic acid in apple cider vinegar has antimicrobial effects that can reduce infections and fungus on the scalp that can lead to dandruff or hair loss.
- Improves circulation – An ACV hair rinse may help improve blood circulation in the scalp and stimulate hair follicles.
- Removes buildup – Apple cider vinegar can dissolve residue from hair products, hard water minerals, and sweat that can clog follicles.
- Increases shine – Using an apple cider vinegar hair rinse leaves hair looking smooth and shiny by closing the cuticles.
How to use apple cider vinegar for hair loss
If you want to try using apple cider vinegar for preventing hair loss and promoting regrowth, here are some tips:
Apple cider vinegar hair rinse
- Mix 1-2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar with 1 cup water.
- After shampooing, pour the rinse through your hair. Avoid getting it on your eyes or scalp if you have sensitive skin.
- Massage it into roots and length of hair. Let it sit for 1-3 minutes.
- Rinse out thoroughly with cool water.
- Use a leave-in conditioner or mask to moisture hair. Vinegar can dry out hair.
- Repeat 1-2 times per week as a treatment.
Apple cider vinegar hair mask
- Whisk together 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar with 1 tablespoon honey and 1 tablespoon olive oil.
- Apply generously to damp, freshly washed hair.
- Put your hair up and let the mask sit for 15-30 minutes.
- Wash out thoroughly. Use conditioner after to restore moisture.
- Use this hair mask 1-2 times per week.
Apple cider vinegar shampoo and conditioner
For an easy way to incorporate apple cider vinegar, look for shampoos and conditioners that contain it as an ingredient. Many natural brands now include ACV to balance pH and impart shine.
You can also make your own apple cider vinegar shampoo by diluting the vinegar in water. Make sure to limit contact with eyes and skin.
What kind of apple cider vinegar to use
Look for raw, unfiltered apple cider vinegar. This type contains the residue known as the “mother” that provides enzymes and probiotics. Bragg is a popular brand. Only use natural ACV.
Avoid apple cider flavored vinegar or vinegars distilled to remove the mother, as they won’t have the same benefits.
Benefits and side effects
Using an apple cider vinegar hair rinse or mask can offer benefits like:
- Adds shine
- Balances pH
- Reduces dandruff
- Improves hair strength
- Promotes hair growth
However, apple cider vinegar is acidic so take care not to overuse it. Possible side effects include:
- Skin irritation or burns
- Damage to hair color
- Increased tangles
- Dry, brittle hair
Dilute ACV properly and rinse it out thoroughly. Limit use to 1-2 times per week. Follow up with a moisturizing conditioner. Avoid getting vinegar in eyes.
Other ways to use apple cider vinegar for hair
In addition to DIY hair rinses and masks, you can use apple cider vinegar for hair in other ways including:
- Mix with witch hazel, rosemary oil, and water for a scalp toner to help remove residue and unclog hair follicles.
- Add a tablespoon to your favorite deep conditioner recipe for added shine.
- Use as the liquid when doing a bentonite clay hair mask to boost cleansing power.
- Create an apple cider vinegar leave-in spray by mixing with water and using after your shower.
When to see a doctor
Incorporating an apple cider vinegar hair care regimen may help with mild hair thinning or loss. However, see your doctor or dermatologist if you experience:
- Rapid hair loss
- Bald patches
- Excessive shedding
- Hair loss along with scalp itching or pain
- Hair loss following major illness or high fever
- No improvement after trying home remedies
A doctor can diagnose the cause of hair loss and provide treatments like medicated shampoos, corticosteroid injections, medications, supplements, laser devices, or transplants for severe cases.
Other home remedies for hair loss
While evidence for apple cider vinegar is limited, some other natural remedies for treating hair loss include:
- Onion juice – Applying onion juice to the scalp may increase blood supply and stimulate hair follicles.
- Coconut oil – The fatty acids in coconut oil may moisturize the scalp and reduce breakage.
- Saw palmetto – This herb may help block DHT hormone and improve hair growth.
- Ginseng – Ginsenosides in ginseng may stimulate hair follicles and prevent shedding.
- Green tea – Epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG) in green tea protects hair follicles from shrinking.
Does apple cider vinegar work for other hair problems?
Some other ways people use apple cider vinegar for hair include:
- Dandruff – The antimicrobial properties may reduce yeast and fungal growth associated with dandruff.
- Frizzy hair – ACV hair rinses seal the cuticle down for smoother, frizz-free hair.
- Product buildup – Apple cider vinegar dissolves styling product residue, hard water minerals, and chlorine.
- Dry scalp – It balances pH levels and hydrates the scalp to relieve dryness and itching.
- Thinning hair – ACV may stimulate circulation and improve health of hair follicles to reduce thinning.
Conclusion
Apple cider vinegar is a traditional home remedy that may hold promise for treating hair loss and promoting stronger, healthier hair. Its antimicrobial and pH balancing properties can reduce scalp issues related to fungal overgrowth, residue buildup, and dryness that can impede healthy hair. Evidence is limited but some studies and anecdotal evidence suggest incorporating ACV into a hair care regimen helps boost circulation, remove clogged follicles, balance pH, and create the optimum environment for hair growth.
While more research is needed, using apple cider vinegar hair rinses, masks, and tonics 1-2 times per week appears safe and beneficial for many people. Just take care to dilute it properly and rinse out thoroughly, then condition hair well for best results.