Apple Cider Vinegar for Acne: How to Use It, Safety, and More

• Apple cider vinegar is a naturally acidic substance that’s been shown to kill the bacteria that causes acne
• It has astringent and exfoliative properties to remove excess oil and debris from skin 
• It can be applied as a toner or spot treatment
• Due to its acidic nature, apple cider vinegar can cause irritation or burns 

Apple cider vinegar is made from unfiltered, fermented apple juice. It’s an astringent, acidic substance that balances the skin’s pH and is a popular natural remedy used to fight bacterial, fungal and viral infections. Many people choose to use apple cider vinegar for acne.

The most effective type of apple cider vinegar contains what is known as “the mother.” This is a cluster of live cultures and beneficial bacteria that rest at the bottom of the bottle and cause the vinegar to appear cloudy. Organic apple cider vinegar with the mother contains more beneficial properties than refined apple cider vinegar.

Can Apple Cider Vinegar Treat Acne?

Although more research is needed, the clinical evidence that does exist indicates that apple cider can indeed help combat acne. 

Apple cider vinegar has antibacterial, antiviral and anti-inflammatory properties. It’s widely known that apple cider vinegar kills a range of viruses and bacteria; it has been clinically proven to kill 90% of certain bacteria and 95% of some viruses. 

The bacteria that is associated with acne is called Propionibacterium acnes. While there is little research on the effectiveness of apple cider vinegar against P. acnes, research has concluded that the natural acids contained in the vinegar can effectively do so.

Apple cider vinegar contains natural acids such as lactic, citric, acetic and succinic acid. Each of these has been shown to kill the bacteria that causes acne.  

Apple cider vinegar for acne scars

Research shows that organic acids, such as those found in apple cider vinegar can address issues such as mild acne scarring, hyperpigmentation and uneven skin tone. However, for moderate to severe scarring a more aggressive approach would be required. Cosmetic procedures such as chemical peels or laser skin resurfacing would provide far better results.

In addition to addressing mild acne scars, this vinegar can help prevent scars from forming; its anti-inflammatory properties can reduce the likelihood by effectively preventing or reducing breakouts. 

Studies on naturally-occurring acids that are present in apple cider vinegar indicate that the acids themselves can help address acne scars, but more research is needed on the vinegar itself. 

Other benefits of apple cider vinegar

Apple cider vinegar is a natural exfoliant that can encourage cell turnover. It contains alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs) that prompt the shedding of damaged skin cells and encourage new skin cell growth. Some of the natural acids such as malic acid, also play a role in exfoliating skin. 

The astringent and skin-tightening properties of this vinegar can help clear and tighten pores. This is a result of the AHA as well as the presence of acetic acid.  Skin appears more smooth and taut which in turn minimizes the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. 

Apple cider vinegar may also help correct hyperpigmentation by lightening darkened areas of the skin. 

This vinegar can be applied as a facial toner, cleanser or a spot treatment, depending on your needs.

How To Use Apple Cider Vinegar for Acne

Apple cider vinegar can be used on its own or combined with other ingredients. For example, you can use it as a toner or as one ingredient in a homemade face mask. 

When treating your acne with this vinegar, keep in mind that it may take weeks to months to see results. Once your symptoms are under control, you can continue using it for maintenance.

Because this vinegar is highly acidic, it must always be diluted. Never apply pure apple cider vinegar to your skin; doing so can cause irritation or burns.

Apple cider vinegar toner 

You can easily make your own apple cider vinegar toner at home to combat acne-causing bacteria, treat lesions and tighten pores. For additional benefits, add a drop of lavender or tea tree oil. Tea tree oil is as effective as benzoyl peroxide in acne treatment and prevention. It also targets hyperpigmentation.

Ingredients:

• 1 tbsp raw, organic apple cider vinegar with the mother
• 1 cup water
• 1 drop lavender essential oil (recommended)

Method: 

1. Combine all ingredients
2. Transfer to a glass spray bottle or storage container
3. Store in a cool dark area
4. Discard if color changes or odor develops

To use:

1. Cleanse face with a gentle cleanser or mild face wash; pat skin dry
2. Dampen a cotton ball with the solution and gently sweep over your face; avoid the delicate eye area
3. Allow to dry before continuing with your skin care routine 

Apple cider vinegar spot treatment

For a targeted acne spot treatment, simply prepare a toner recipe. You can choose to apply the solution to individual lesions or specific areas of your face. 

Method: 

1. Cleanse face with a gentle cleanser or mild face wash; pat skin dry
2. Dip a cotton swab into the toner and lightly dab onto problem spots
3. Allow to dry before continuing with your skin care routine

Is It Safe to Apply Apple Cider Vinegar to the Face?

Due to the high acidity of apple cider vinegar, it is important to use it safely. 

Apple cider vinegar must be diluted first before using; its acidic nature can cause burns on the skin. Use a ratio of 1 cup water to 1 tablespoon vinegar.

If you have normal to combination skin, limit your use of toner or spot treatment to once per day. If you overuse this vinegar, it can strip the skin’s natural oils and dry your skin excessively. 

For oily skin, you can use a toner twice per day, but monitor your skin’s response to avoid irritation. 

Always be sure to patch test the solution on a small area of skin before applying it to your entire face. This will help you determine any allergic reaction or sensitivity. If you experience itching, redness or burning, rinse your skin with cool water immediately. Contact your doctor if symptoms persist.

Never use apple cider vinegar on open sores, wounds or sensitive skin. Because it’s so acidic, it is more likely to burn, sting or cause damage to broken or irritated skin.

If a diluted solution burns or stings when you apply it to your skin, add water to dilute it further. If burning persists, discontinue use. 

Can apple cider vinegar make acne worse?

Yes, it can cause symptoms to worsen, but only temporarily. When first using an astringent, a process known as purging can develop.

The active ingredients in the vinegar draw impurities to the surface from deep in your skin and is actually a sign the treatment is working. Purging should resolve within a few weeks, but if this continues, your skin may be reacting negatively toward the vinegar. If so, discontinue use. 

Apple Cider Vinegar vs. Other Acne Fighting Ingredients

Apple cider vinegar has been proven to have acne-fighting qualities. However, there are many established OTC and professional treatments available that are far more effective in treating and preventing acne. And for those with moderate to severe symptoms, a stronger medication or combination therapy is necessary.

  Other, clinically proven acne-fighting treatments include:

• Benzoyl peroxide unblocks pores, kills bacteria and dries out pimples and acne lesions
• Salicylic acid clears pores of oil and dead skin cells; effectively treats noninflammatory acne blemishes such as whiteheads, blackheads and pimples
• Topical retinoids are a mainstay treatment for both inflammatory and noninflammatory acne

To find out which mediation is best for your skin, speak with your dermatologist to determine a treatment plan.

Takeaway

Apple cider vinegar has been demonstrated to balance skin’s pH, fight acne-causing bacteria, and provide exfoliating and astringent benefits. Combined, these qualities make it an effective treatment or a complementary treatment for mild acne.  

You can use apple cider vinegar as an astringent toner or a spot treatment. However, ensure you dilute the apple cider vinegar before applying it to your skin as the high acidity may cause burning or discomfort at full strength. 

If you experience burning, stinging, itching, or other skin discomfort after applying the solution, rinse with cool water, discontinue use and contact your doctor. 

While apple cider vinegar can have a place in acne treatment, it is not for everyone: It would not be effective in treating more moderate to severe cases of acne. OTC and prescription acne medications would be more appropriate as they are specifically formulated for this purpose.

Standard treatments for acne include salicylic acid, benzoyl peroxide or retinoids, depending on your skin type and condition.