vinegar for skin - #13129
I am really confused about this whole vinegar for skin thing. I know it’s supposed to have some benefits, but I’ve been trying it for a couple of weeks and not sure if it’s doing anything? Let me tell ya, about a month ago I started struggin with some pretty bad breakouts. I tried all these creams and cleansers out there, but nothing was working ugh! Then a friend told me about using vinegar for skin, saying it can be a miracle worker. I bought some organic apple cider vinegar, thinking I’d just do a diluted toner. At first, it seemed like my skin was clearing up a bit, but then I started noticing these dry patches. Is that normal when using vinegar for skin? I read somewhere that some people dilute it and others don’t. Is there a right way to use vinegar for skin or is it just trial and error? Also, how long does it take to see results 'cause I'm kinda impatient and not sure if I should stick with it or try something else. Anyone else had experience with vinegar for skin? Did it work for you? Do I need to change my approach or should I just give it more time?
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Doctors’ responses
Let’s dive right into what vinegar, specifically apple cider vinegar (ACV), is doing for your skin. ACV has a reputation for potentially balancing the skin’s pH and having antibacterial properties, which might help with acne to some extent. However, it’s not a miracle solution for everyone, and the results can vary widely. The thing about using vinegar is that it’s quite acidic. When applied to the skin, especially if it’s not well-diluted, it might lead to irritation or dryness, like those dry patches you’ve noticed. Diluting vinegar is generally a safer approach - a common ratio is one part vinegar to three or four parts water. If your skin is very sensitive, you might want to even go more diluted. Remember, it’s important to do a patch test on a small area of skin before applying it to your face, to see how your skin reacts. Now, about the results timing - it can vary from person to person. Some might see small improvements within a week, while for others it could take several weeks. Skin conditions like acne often need time and consistent treatment, so a bit of patience can help, although I understand the urgency. If the dryness or irritation persists, or if your acne isn’t improving, it might be worth reevaluating your skincare routine. You could consider integrating or switching to products with proven active ingredients like benzoyl peroxide, salicylic acid, or seeking professional advice for prescription options. If your skin’s reacting negatively or you’re developing new symptoms, it might be a good idea to pause with the vinegar and consult a dermatologist to avoid further irritation. Always listen to what your skin’s telling you, and adjust your routine accordingly.
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