The truth behind this age-old beauty trend
The search for perfect skin never ceases and it’s led some people to try some seriously ambitious – if not straight up whacky – home remedies. When new trends hit the beauty world, it’s always a good call to do a little bit of background research and ask the question, “Is this really going to work?”
Another good thing to note is the length of time it’s been around. For example, collagen is a wildly popular component of the health and beauty sphere at the moment, but
collagen protein has been around for thousands of years within our own bodies, holding us together and keeping us functioning properly. Therefore, while collagen protein might be trending, it doesn’t mean that collagen is in any way newfangled.
The same exact thing can be said for apple cider vinegar, minus the part about it being found in our own bodies. It’s not, obviously, and it’s not even found in nature, but it
is natural. Let us explain.
What is apple cider vinegar?
To better understand the benefits of ACV, it is important to understand what ACV is and how it’s made.
ACV begins as mere apples which are crushed and mixed with yeast which ferments the sugar in the apples, converting it into alcohol. Then, healthy bacteria is added to further ferment the alcohol which undergoes a chemical process that turns it into acetic acid. This acetic acid is apple cider vinegar’s main compound and the agent known for giving ACV its pungent taste and smell.
It’s the acetic acid that also gives apple cider vinegar some of its most valued benefits, including:
- Aiding with weight loss
- Reducing inflammation
- Calming acid reflux
- Improving skin appearance
- Increasing hair health
- Balancing the body and skin’s pH
- Boosting immunity by maintaining good gut health
Benefit focus – ACV and your skin
Apple cider vinegar has a naturally acidic pH which can help balance the pH of the face. The acetic acid in ACV is antibacterial, helping to cleanse and clarify the skin, and the additional component of malic acid works to gently exfoliate as well as limit the production of melanin. This means a balancing/reduction of redness and hyperpigmentation, plus a cleansing of the oils, dirt, and sweat which can collect on the face over a day.
If you choose to incorporate apple cider vinegar as part of your skincare regimen, take care to prevent chemical burns by refraining from applying it undiluted to the skin. While malic acid is more gentle and appropriate for most skin types, acetic acid tends to be more abrasive and can cause chemical burns if not used properly. Always dilute apple cider vinegar in a solution of one part ACV to four parts water, and patch test it on the skin, especially before applying it all over your face.
How to use ACV for your face
When you do start using ACV, here are some handy methods by which you can work it into your daily routine.
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Whip up a DIY toner – Toners are a popular step in the skincare regimen as they work to restore the skin, remove harmful particles and fight acne. They wipe away any remaining dirt and dead skin cells left on the surface of the face after cleansing and are best followed by a clean moisturizer. To make an ACV face toner, mix 2 tablespoons of ACV in 8 ounces of water and apply with a cotton ball or spritz evenly onto the face. Or, if you’re feeling fancy, try this ACV toner recipe, complete with witch hazel and rosewater.
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Try an ACV face wash – Lots of beauty companies actually make apple cider vinegar face washes for purchase, so you can always opt for that option, or you can try making one on your own. Mix ¼ cup of warm water with 1 tablespoon of ACV for a gentle, yet effective cleanser.
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Use it as a spot treatment – You know your skin the best, so make sure using ACV as a spot treatment won’t anger it. If you feel a breakout coming, just dab a drop of ACV onto the irritating spot. The antibacterial properties of ACV will begin working against the bacteria of the pimple to dry it up and clean it out.
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Take ACV gummies daily – Sometimes the best way to take care of your skin is to heal it from the inside out. If you’re not a massive fan of drinking ACV (and we don’t blame you if you’re not), try BUBS Naturals ACV Gummies. Non-GMO, gluten-free, and vegan, you can experience all the benefits of ACV without the concern of preservatives or additives. Not only will you see a difference in your skin, but you’ll also feel the benefits of ACV begin to work through your whole body.
Add ACV to your daily routine
While apple cider vinegar might seem like a fad, it’s truly not. It’s a natural remedy that’s been around for thousands of years because of its body-boosting benefits. Especially for those looking to heal their complexion or fight off annoying breakouts, consider making an ACV toner or face wash, or purchasing
ACV gummies. Not only will your skin love you, but your whole body will also feel the difference.
