can i use apple cider vinegar on my face - #12823
I am really curious about something! I've been hearing all this buzz about apple cider vinegar lately, and honestly, I've been trying to figure out if can I use apple cider vinegar on my face? I mean, my skin has been acting up a lot—like, super oily one minute, then dry and flakey the next. Ugh, so frustrating! I've tried all these creams, serums, everything but nothing seems to work as well as I hoped. A friend suggested that maybe can I use apple cider vinegar on my face because it has some magical properties or whatever. I even read somewhere that it can help with acne or even brighten your skin. But, like, is this even safe? I don't wanna end up making things worse, ya know? Also, how do I even use it? Like, do I need to dilute it or something? I tried googling but kept getting mixed info. Some say it's great, others swore that it burned their skin! Can I use apple cider vinegar on my face regularly? Has anyone here tried this? Would love to hear some real experiences, thanks!
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Doctors’ responses
Apple cider vinegar (ACV) can be used on the face, but it’s crucial to proceed with caution. Its acidic nature may provide some benefits, like helping to balance skin pH or acting as a mild exfoliant, which might assist with acne to some extent. However, the acid can be irritating, especially for sensitive skin types, and may cause burns or worsen certain conditions if not used properly. For starters, it’s essential to dilute apple cider vinegar before applying it to the skin. A common recommendation is to mix one part vinegar with 3-4 parts water, but this could vary based on your skin’s sensitivity. Patch testing on a small area, like inside the wrist, is important before applying it to your face, monitoring for any reactions like redness or irritation within 24 hours. Concerning the frequency of use, start with applying it once or twice a week to see how your skin reacts, and gradually increase if your skin tolerates it. Make sure to avoid applying it to open wounds, active acne lesions or sunburnt areas as it can lead to further irritation or pain. Also, be cautious if your skin feels dry afterward since ACV can strip natural oils. Using a gentle moisturizer after application might help counteract any dryness. Always remember that results can vary greatly between individuals, and while ACV might work for some people, it is not a guaranteed solution and could worsen symptoms or trigger new issues. If you’re considering this as a regular treatment and have ongoing skin concerns, consulting a dermatologist or healthcare professional would be best to tailor advice to your specific skin condition.
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