applying apple cider vinegar on face - #15391
I am really curious about applying apple cider vinegar on face after hearing so many people rave about it. A few weeks ago, I started noticing these annoying breakouts and my skin felt super oily, like, all the time! I tried a bunch of creams and washes, but nothing seemed to work. Then, a friend suggested applying apple cider vinegar on face might help balance my skin. But it just feels kinda weird, right? I mean, is it normal that it stings a bit when I first apply it? And how do you even apply it? Should I dilute it or just slap it on? I did that once without dilution and my skin reacted, like, super red. š³ I know some people say you can mix it with water or even honey, but others just use it plain. I donāt wanna mess up my skin more! Also, how long does it take to see any results from applying apple cider vinegar on face? I'm kind of worried Iāll just make everything worse. If anyone has tips or their own experiences with applying apple cider vinegar on face, Iād love to hear. Like, is there a right way to try this? Thanks for any help!
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Doctorsā responses
Apple cider vinegar (ACV) has indeed gained popularity for skin care, but itās important to approach it cautiously. When using it on the face, especially for acne or oily skin, dilution is essential to minimize irritation. ACV is acidic and applying it undiluted can lead to burns or irritation (hence the redness you experienced). A common recommendation is to mix one part apple cider vinegar with three or four parts water. You can adjust this ratio as necessary, based on how your skin reacts. Always do a patch test on a small area of your skin before applying it more broadly. Use a cotton ball or pad to gently apply the diluted mixture to a clean face, concentrating on the problem areas. Avoid sensitive regions like around your eyes and donāt leave it on for too longāstart with 5-10 minutes and rinse it off with lukewarm water.
Reactions can vary significantly from person to person and if youāve noticed strong reactions before, itās wise to proceed cautiously or reconsider using it altogether. As for the benefits, they arenāt immediate. You might start noticing changes after a week or two of consistent, but not daily application. Also, be on the lookout for any persistent redness, increased irritation, or signs of an allergic reaction, in which case, discontinuing use is best. Someone with sensitive skin or a history of skin reactions should consider consulting a dermatologist before continuing with at-home treatments like this.
While ACV can help with maintaining the skinās pH and potentially reduce breakouts, itās not a miracle cure. If your condition persists or worsens, it may be beneficial to consult a dermatology professional. They can help you determine the underlying cause and suggest effective treatments. Also, maintain a regular skincare routine that includes gentle cleansing and moisturizing; this supports your skinās health and functions alongside trying new treatments. Make sure youāre not overusing harsh products, as this can exacerbate oiliness and breakouts. And remember, balancing treatments with patience and caution is key to finding a routine that works for you without causing harm.
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