Apple Cider Vinegar and dermatitis
Some use apple cider vinegar as a remedy or ingredient in treatments for different skin disorders, inclusive of eczema. But is it safe or does it work? Eczema can result in cracked, dry and itchy spots on the skin, and may be painful or stressing to deal with.
Photo on rd.com
What is Apple Cider Vinegar?
Using Apple Cider Vinegar to treat dermatitis
Getting natural, soothing treatments can change one’s life. Apple cider vinegar is a remedy that most people find efficient. Apple cider is basically fermented apple juice. When yeast is added to apple juice, it converts the fruit sugar into alcohol— through a process known as fermentation. Bacteria then change the alcohol into acetic acid, which is what gives ACV its sour taste and strong smell. Although it doesn’t have much nutritional value, it is used in quite a few recipes, particularly soups, sauces, and salad dressings. Apple cider vinegar also has a rich history as a folk remedy in the health and beauty circles. Eczema is a prevalent skin condition that affects a lot of people, e.g., The term eczema refers typically to conditions in a group including; at contact dermatitis, atopic dermatitis, and dyshidrotic eczema.
Can apple cider vinegar help with eczema?
No research implies that the vinegar improves eczema symptoms, though there some reasons why it is said to help.
Benefits of ACV
Many reported benefits come down to ACV having the following effects:
- Balancing the skin’s pH levels – Acidic substances can improve symptoms of skin conditions like eczema, by aiding in the restoration of the skin’s acidity level. The skin is naturally acidic, which protects it against bacterial infection. Highly alkaline soaps and cleansers can trigger irritation the skin and aggravate eczema.
- Managing inflammation and infection. Research suggests that ACV can reduce inflammation and infection. Using it on the skin, can reduce eczema-related inflammation and help prevent broken skin from getting infected.
Is it safe to use ACV on eczema?
Apple cider vinegar is very acidic, which can help the skin in certain ways. However, in some instances and when overused, the vinegar can harm the body, for example by causing chemical burns. Always speak to a doctor before using natural remedies on areas with eczema or other skin ailments. It is necessary to use small, diluted amounts of vinegar and to monitor the skin thoroughly for any reactions. If you get a burning sensation or any other side effects, stop applying the vinegar and see a doctor immediately.
Is it safe for use on infants?
No guidelines or research implies that ACV is safe for infants or babies. The liquid can cause chemical burns, and it may harm an infant’s sensitive skin. Consult a doctor before utilizing apple cider vinegar to treat eczema symptoms in a baby.
How to use Apple Cider Vinegar for eczema
There are many ways of using ACV to help manage your eczema. Here are some methods you can try: Be sure to visit your doctor before applying ACV on your skin for the first time. This is very important for parents of infants or small kids with eczema. It is advised to begin with a small patch test and wait a few days to ensure you do not experience an adverse reaction.
Photo on inverse.com
Apple Cider Vinegar Bath
Adding ACV to a warm bath can help regain your skin’s natural acidity. Add 2 cups of apple cider vinegar to a warm (not hot) bath. Soak in it for 15 to 20 minutes and then rinse off with cool water. Follow up with a gentle, perfume-free moisturizer.
Apple Cider Vinegar Moisturizer
Making your own apple cider vinegar moisturizer lets you moisturize while reclaiming your skin’s pH balance. Returning acidity to the skin can help your skin retain that moisture for a long while. Mix a tablespoon of ACV with 1/4 a cup of virgin coconut oil. Studies show that coconut oil can decrease inflammation and soothe painful skin.
Apple Cider Vinegar Facial Toner
The antibacterial properties allow ACV to eliminate staph bacteria present on the skin, which decreases your chances of infection. As a toner, ACV cleans the skin while lessening inflammation.
Recipe for DIY Apple Cider Vinegar Facial Toner
Ingredients:
- Raw apple cider vinegar
- Distilled water
You can also add:
- Brewed herbal tea
- Hydrosols like rose or orange
- Essential oils like lavender or tea tree
For sensitive skin: Mix 1 part ACV with four parts of waterFor normal/dry skin: Mix 1 part ACV with two parts waterFor oily skin: Mix 1 part ACV with 1 part water
Using brewed tea: Make your favorite organic herbal tea such as green tea, and you can use it instead of filtered water. If you do, you will need to keep your toner in the refrigerator.Including hydrosols: Hydrosols are gentle “flower waters” that have nourishing qualities. They are produced during the process of making essential oils. During the distillation process, the essential oil is separated from the water, which leaves behind nourishing, herbal water with tiny traces of essential oils. To add a hydrosol to your DIY toner, use 1 tsp per 8 oz of toner. The hydrosol is not meant to replace your filtered water.Combining essential oils: Essential oils are natural oils collected through distillation which have the characteristic fragrance of the plant or other sources from which it is extracted from. Adding essential oils boosts the nourishing properties of your toner depending on which one you use. Tea tree oil has anti-inflammatory benefits, and lavender oil is more aromatic and soothing. Use two to three drops per 8 oz of toner.
How to make the apple cider vinegar toner:
Mix the ingredients and store it in a glass or plastic container. This toner has a good shelf life and does not need to be put in the fridge; however, you will need to refrigerate it if you use brewed tea though.To apply: Using a cotton square, gently rub the toner on your face and neck. You can also put this ACV toner in a spray bottle and spritz a light mist directly on your skin to freshen it up throughout the day. Do not rinse it off after application. You can use this multiple times a day to refresh skin. As a reminder, this should be used after you clean your face.
Apple Cider Vinegar For Hair
Apple cider vinegar has antifungal properties which allow it to combat dandruff-causing fungus called Malassezia. Eczema and Malassezia are often coexisting, and they cause itchiness of the scalp.Make a hair oil by combining ACV with sunflower oil. Studies show that sunflower oil assists in restoring the skin’s protective barrier and boost moisture retention. Add one tablespoon of ACV to 1/4 a cup of sunflower oil. Apply generously to your scalp immediately after a shower.For dandruff mix equal parts (about 1/4 cup each) ACV and water in a spray bottle and shake well. Spray it onto your hair after shampooing, let sit for 15 minutes and rinse it off. Use this twice per week, and you should be dandruff free in no time. The acidity in the vinegar makes it harder for the Malassezia fungus to grow on your scalp.
Recipe for an apple cider vinegar hair rinse
You will need:
- 1 ½ cup hot water
- Three tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 4 drops Rosemary essential oil
- 4 drops Lavender essential oil
- 4 drops Tea Tree essential oil
- 3 drops Lemongrass essential oil
Combine 1 ½ cups of hot water with three tablespoons of ACV in a measuring cup or mixing bowl, then add in the essential oils. Using a whisk, mix the ingredients until the essential oils disperse.
How to use the rinse: Immediately after shampooing your hair, remove any excess water. Pour this hair rinse and let it sit for a while. Make sure to keep the rinse away from your eyes, if you do, wash it off with plenty of water immediately. Massage the scalp so the rinse can stimulate circulation and hair growth and calm any itchiness. Rinse your hair well, dry it and style your hair as you normally do. If you are concerned because of the vinegar smell, it will go away one the hair dries. Use this hair rinse once or twice a month.If you have dry or regular hair, this recipe should work as it is. For oily hair or hair with dandruff, you need to add an extra one to three tablespoons of ACV. Begin with the recipe as it is, and modify the blend over time if needed. Make this mixture the same day you plan on using it. If you don’t get around to using it, store in the refrigerator and shake the mixture well before application.
Apple Cider Vinegar Wet Wrap
For severe eczema flare-ups, add ACV to a wet wrap. You will require some gauze, a paper towel, or clean cotton fabric. Mix 1 cup of warm water with 1 tablespoon ACV. Wet the fabric and put it onto the severely irritated areas. Then cover the dressing with a dry fabric or plastic wrap. Wear the wet wrap for about three hours. You can also keep it on throughout the night. The dampness will add some moisture to your skin while the ACV fights off harmful bacteria.
Risks of Apple Cider Vinegar on the Skin
Photo on blog.bulletproof.com
There are few risks linked with apple cider vinegar. However, you should still consult a doctor before adopting it to treat infants or little children. With eczema, there’s always a risk that the products will irritate the skin. Try beginning by performing a small patch test of ACV and waiting a couple of days to be sure you don’t get a serious reaction. If ACV triggers irritation, discontinue use. ACV can cause skin dryness so after using any of the above remedies, make sure that you moisturize thoroughly to prevent dryness. Eczema prone skin can flare you due to dryness and cause itchiness.
Apple Cider Vinegar and dermatitis: When you should see your doctor?
Eczema is a chronic condition that can set off unexpectedly throughout your life. Managing eczema often requires a multipronged approach. If your symptoms are not improving, make an appointment with a dermatologist to see what can be done. A doctor can give you advice on other treatment choices available, such as prescription ointments or medicine. A combination of methods can be the option for you. Eczema is a common issue, and apple cider vinegar can reduce symptoms by returning the skin’s acidity levels. Also, some people report that adding the vinegar to baths helps to reduce dryness.
