is vinegar good for hair - #37216
I am really curious about something! Lately, my hair has been feeling super dull and frizzy, and I keep hearing people talk about how is vinegar good for hair. Like, I was at a party last week, and a friend mentioned she uses vinegar to rinse her hair, and I was like, really? I mean, I’ve always seen it in the kitchen, but never thought of it for hair care. I tried using some store-bought shampoos, but they just didn’t do anything and my scalp feels kinda itchy too. I found some old recipes online that suggest using vinegar as a hair rinse or even mixing it with water, but I worry is vinegar good for hair or will it just make things worse? I even have some slight dandruff, and I'm scared it could irritate my scalp more. If anyone here has tried it, could you share your experiences? Like, how do you use it exactly? And for how long did you see results? Also, any special tips or tricks? I’m just desperate for my hair to feel normal again! Thanks for any advice!
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Doctors’ responses
Yes, vinegar might indeed prove beneficial for your hair, but there are important aspects to consider before incorporating it into your hair care routine. In Ayurveda, the condition of your hair might be linked to an imbalance of the doshas, particularly Pitta, which could manifest as dull, frizzy hair and an itchy scalp. The acidity in vinegar, especially apple cider vinegar (ACV), helps balance the scalp’s pH level, hence reducing itchiness and controlling dandruff by discouraging overgrowth of yeast and bacteria.
To effectively use vinegar, mix equal parts of ACV and water – you could start with, say, half a cup each. After shampooing, pour the mixture over your hair, massage it into the scalp and be careful not to let it sit too long. Rinse thoroughly with water after a couple of minutes to ensure no residue lingers in your hair.
When introducing vinegar rinses into your regimen, restrict usage to once a week initially to observe how your hair and scalp respond. It’s crucial to not overuse as the acidic nature could potentially dry out or irritate sensitive scalps. If you experience any excessive dryness or irritation, discontinue use.
For practicality, ensure that the vinegar is well diluted, and avoid use on open wounds or severely dry scalps. Additionally, to nourish your hair further, incorporate oils like coconut or sesame oil into your routine. Warm the oil slightly and apply it to your scalp 30 minutes to an hour before washing, massaging it gently to promote blood circulation and soothe irritation.
Monitor your diet too. Incorporate foods that are Pitta-pacifying, focusing on cooling and sweet fruits, and avoiding excessively spicy or sour foods. Staying hydrated and consuming adequate omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids from sources like flaxseeds and nuts can also benefit hair health.
Should you experience persistent issues or discomfort, it would be wise to consult with an Ayurvedic practitioner or trichologist who can provide personalized guidance based on your unique prakriti, and ensure no underlying conditions are influencing your hair and scalp health.

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