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Skin and Hair Disorders
Question #36648
22 days ago
58

how to apply apple cider vinegar on face - #36648

Hailey

I am really struggling with my skin lately, and I’ve heard tons of people talking about how to apply apple cider vinegar on face to help with acne and blemishes. A few months ago, I started noticing these stubborn breakouts on my cheeks which have just been so frustrating! At first, I thought it was just a phase, but they just won’t go away!! Ugh! I did some research and found out that apple cider vinegar could be a good natural remedy. Honestly, though, I’m a bit confused. I read that you can dilute it with water before applying it, but then how much water should I use? What’s the best way for how to apply apple cider vinegar on face? Do I just use a cotton ball, or can I just splash it on? I tried it once and my skin felt a bit sensitive after, like maybe I used too much? Should I apply it only on spots or like all over my face? And how often is too often? I wanna try to stick with natural stuff, but I don’t want to irritate my skin more. Would love any advice or personal experiences you have with how to apply apple cider vinegar on face, especially if you got sensitive skin! Thank you!

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Doctors' responses

Applying apple cider vinegar (ACV) to your skin can be helpful, but it’s important to approach this with care, especially if your skin is sensitive. Traditional Ayurveda encourages balance and gradual progression with treatments to avoid aggravating the skin. Let’s go through the steps:

First, dilution is key when it comes to using ACV on your face, particularly for sensitive skin. A common recommendation is to mix 1 part ACV with 3 parts water. This reduces the acidity, minimizing the risk of irritation.

When you’re ready to apply, use a cotton ball or pad, which allows for a controlled application rather than just splashing it on, which can lead to uneven distribution and possible irritation. You’ll want to gently dab the cotton ball on the affected areas – focusing on spots where you have breakouts or blemishes, rather than all over. This helps prevent unnecessary irritation and maintains moisture balance in unaffected areas.

For frequency, start with applying it once every other day until your skin builds tolerance. Observing how your skin reacts is crucial. If you notice increased redness or sensitivity, reduce application frequency or consider further dilution. Oily or resilient skin might tolerate a more frequent application, but again, caution is vital.

If you experience tingling, it’s normal; however, if severe irritation or burning occurs, wash it off immediately. After applying, always follow up with a gentle, non-comedogenic moisturizer to prevent dryness.

To maintain balance, integrating other Ayurvedic practices such as strengthening Agni (digestive fire) with a proper diet can complement topical treatments. Include cooling foods like cucumbers and avoid excessive spicy or oily foods. Be mindful and consult a healthcare professional if you continue experiencing persistent skin issues.

Applying ACV safely can offer benefits, but it’s important regard any skin reaction that seems off and adjust your approach accordingly. Ayurveda teaches us to honor and listen to our body’s unique responses.

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For addressing acne and blemishes, apple cider vinegar can be used as a natural toner due to its antimicrobial properties and ability to balance the skin’s pH. However, considering your skin sensitivity, it’s essential to dilute it correctly. A common ratio is one part apple cider vinegar to three or four parts water. This dilution can help ensure that the vinegar doesn’t irritate your skin.

Start by performing a patch test on a small area of your skin to see how it reacts before applying it to your face. If there’s no irritation or adverse reaction after 24 hours, you can proceed. Use a clean cotton ball to apply the diluted solution gently, targeting the affected areas with your breakouts. Avoid splashing it on your face directly, as this may lead to uneven application.

In terms of dosage, it’s usually best to start with once a day in the evening. If your skin tolerates it well after a week, you might increase to twice a day, morning and night. Overuse might dry out your skin, leading to further irritation or a reactive increase in oil production.

Based on Siddha-Ayurvedic principles, acne is often linked to an imbalance in the pitta dosha. Incorporate a cooling diet, rich in sweet, bitter, and astringent foods, like cucumber or leafy greens, to balance excess heat in the body. Adequate hydration and avoiding excessively spicy foods can also assist in managing pitta imbalances.

Monitor how your skin responds, and adjust again if you notice any discomfort. Remember some natural remedies work differently for each person. If symptoms persist or worsen, consider seeking professional medical advice or consulting an Ayurvedic practitioner for a tailored approach.

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