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“ACV neutralizes and supports the natural biome of the scalp,” Hill says. “Apple cider vinegar has antimicrobial properties to cleanse and natural alpha hydroxy acids that gently exfoliate to encourage cellular turnover and create an optimal environment for hair to grow. On the hair shaft, ACV closes the cuticle, sealing in moisture and adding optimal shine.”
It also helps if you have any sort of scalp irritation. “ACV is great for people with psoriasis because it can soothe the irritation and calm,” Michael says. “It also has antibacterial and antifungal properties.”
Because ACV seals the hair’s cuticle, it also helps reduce breakage and frizz, maintain elasticity, and lock in color to prevent fading, Ruggeri explains.
Among its other main benefits? Treating dandruff. Present in both dry and oily hair types, dandruff is a “yeastlike fungus that feeds on oils on the scalps of most adults,” Ruggeri says. “Apple cider vinegar has natural antibacterial and antifungal properties that make it effective in killing and preventing dandruff-causing yeast on the scalp,” he adds.
Additionally, both Ruggeri and Hill mention that ACV can support hair growth by removing product buildup, especially from commonly used items like dry shampoo. “ACV unblocks follicles in the scalp so that strands have freedom to thrive,” Ruggeri says. (Note: If you use dry shampoo, Ruggeri advises spraying it on the mid-lengths of hair, rather than the roots, to prevent clogging the follicle).