Apple cider vinegar has been known as a fermented beverage that is not only used as a salad dressing but also has health benefits. Consuming apple cider vinegar is believed to prevent obesity, diabetes, and lower blood pressure. In addition, apple cider vinegar is also known to have benefits for dandruff. But, is it really that effective?

Is Apple Vinegar Effective for Dandruff Removal?

Apple cider vinegar (ACV) is a fermented drink made from apples. It has a sour taste and sometimes leaves a hot sensation in the throat. As a fermented product, it contains probiotic bacteria and acetic acid that can maintain a healthy digestive tract and metabolism.

In addition to drinking, the high acid content of apple cider vinegar is believed to solve a number of hair problems. Dry, coarse and dull hair tends to have a high pH. By shampooing or applying apple vinegar, which has a low pH, it is hoped that it can balance the acidity of the hair and make it healthier, including overcoming dandruff.

Dandruff in the hair can be caused by several things, among them:

• Irritated, oily skin
• Dry skin
• A yeast-like fungus (malassezia) that feeds on oil on the scalp of adults
• Sensitivity to hair care products (contact dermatitis)
• Other skin conditions, such as psoriasis and eczema

Rinsing your hair with apple cider vinegar is believed to help with dandruff as apple cider vinegar has the following benefits:

• Antifungal. One study showed that compounds found in apple cider vinegar can prevent the growth of certain types of fungi.
• Disinfectant. Apple cider vinegar is also often used as a disinfectant. Many consider that this substance can kill fungi and bacteria that cause dandruff.
• Acid. The acid content of apple cider vinegar is expected to restore the pH balance of hair or scalp that has a high pH.

Read more: Even Though It's Similar, The Dermatitis Of Seboroik And Ketombe Is Different

Although it has a number of benefits for the scalp, until now there has not been enough research to prove that the use of apple cider vinegar can effectively treat dandruff hair. Further research is still needed to determine the benefits and side effects of using apple cider vinegar to treat dandruff.

Keep in mind that apple cider vinegar is acidic and can irritate the scalp. If you want to try to get rid of dandruff using apple cider vinegar, you need to be mindful of the risk of an itchy scalp due to irritation from exposure to apple cider vinegar.

To minimize irritation, it is recommended that you mix apple cider vinegar with water in a 1:5 ratio in a spray bottle. Once the water is mixed with apple cider vinegar, you can spray the mixture onto your hair after shampooing and let it sit for 2-5 minutes, then rinse thoroughly. Apply conditioner if needed.

Read more: What Is Wet Dandruff How To Treat It?

Home Remedies To Treat Dandruff

One easy way to deal with dandruff is to use a dandruff shampoo that suits your hair type and scalp condition. Apart from dandruff shampoo and apple cider vinegar, you can try some of the following natural remedies for dandruff:

• Coconut oil, olive oil. Pour a few drops of coconut oil or olive oil on the hair, let it sit for a while, then rinse.
• Aloe vera. Rub the aloe vera to scalp before shampooing, then wash off with shampoo and water until clean.
• Baking soda powder. Apply baking soda powder mixed with water on wet hair, let it sit for a few minutes, then rinse.

Although it has a number of health and beauty benefits, further research is still needed on the benefits of apple cider vinegar to eradicate dandruff. If you have dandruff problems, you should see a doctor or use the consultation feature available on the Ai Care application.

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