7 Simple Ways Apple Cider Vinegar Helps Curly Hair Shine

Selah Vaughn
April 7, 2025

Most of us know apple cider vinegar. We often use it as a dip for our favorite foods or as a salad dressing. Many people also know it has health benefits. It can help with weight loss and lower cholesterol. But using apple cider vinegar for curly hair? This was new to me, so I decided to learn more. I was surprised by what I found about the amazing benefits of apple cider vinegar for curly hair.

What is apple cider vinegar?

Before we explore how apple cider vinegar helps curly hair, let me tell you about this simple but powerful kitchen staple. Apple cider vinegar, or ACV, is made by fermenting apple juice. People often use it in cooking, like in salad dressings, dips, and marinades. ACV is known for many health benefits. It can help burn fat for weight loss, lower cholesterol, reduce blood sugar, and improve insulin response. Now, you can also add making your curls healthier and more lively to that list. Here is a closer look at how this everyday pantry item can benefit your curly hair.

  • Balances the PH level of our hair and scalp
  • Exfoliates the scalp
  • Promotes hair growth by increasing blood circulation on the scalp
  • Prevents bacteria and fungus in the hair
  • Prevents split ends
  • Prevent frizz and adds shine to the hair
  • What is apple cider vinegar rinse?

    An apple cider vinegar rinse is a popular way to add this ingredient to your curly hair care routine. You can easily make this rinse with simple items from your kitchen. The steps are very easy and do not require any special skills.

    What type of hair can use apple cider vinegar?

    If you have high porosity hair, this DIY hair rinse can help a lot. It helps close and seal your hair cuticle. Use this rinse once a week. But if you have low porosity hair, be more careful. Apple cider vinegar may be too strong, so mix it with extra water. Use it only once every two weeks or about twice a month.

    What you need: 

  • Apple cider vinegar
  • Water
  • Regular shampoo
  • Essential oil (optional)
  • How to use

    1. Combine ⅓ apple cider vinegar and 1 quart of water in a clean bottle. Mix them thoroughly. 
    2. Tip: For extra benefits, try adding your favorite essential oil, such as rosemary or lavender, to the mixture.

    3. Cleanse your hair with your favorite shampoo and rinse well. 
    4. Rinse your hair with apple cider vinegar and let it stay for 30 seconds to a minute. 
    5. Rinse with cold water.
    6. Tip: Rinse out the apple cider vinegar with cold water. Cold water helps close the hair shaft, making your hair look shinier.

      Things to remember:

    7. When using apple cider vinegar rinse, avoid contact with the eyes. Vinegar might sting your eyes and may cause irritation.
    8. Apple cider vinegar might not be the best for color-treated hair. The acid in the apple cider vinegar may strip off your hair color.
    9. Too much vinegar may damage your hair. Make sure you get the proportions right.
    10. Rinse your hair properly to lessen the smell. But don’t get bothered by the smell. It will go away and will not leave a strong smell in your hair.
    11. Recommended products:

      Bragg Organic Raw Apple Cider Vinegar, 32 Ounce - 1 Pack
      • Rich in enzymes & potassium
      • Helps maintain healthy skin and helps promote youthful, healthy bodies
      • Helps control weight and promotes digestion & ph Balance
      • Relieves muscle pain from exercise
      • BRAGG 32 fl. oz. Bottle

      Last update on 2025-04-19 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

      I always keep this product in my pantry. I use it on my hair, in my salads, for marinades, and even in my drinks. The best thing is it’s very affordable, yet the quality is excellent!

      dpHUE Apple Cider Vinegar Hair Rinse, 8.5 oz - Shampoo Alternative, Scalp...
      • Don't Over Shampoo; Apple Cider Vinegar Hair Rinse removes impurities without stripping the natural oils that are essential to the health of your scalp and hair. Perfect for reducing shampoo use, it...
      • Post-Workout Rinse; Our formula is also a great post-workout refresh—gently removing sweat, oil, and buildup. Add ACV to your routine for a balanced, healthy scalp and effortlessly fresh hair.
      • Help Soothe Your Scalp; Apple cider vinegar can help control scalp dryness and irritation. ACV Hair Rinse also incorporates Lavender Extract and Aloe Vera for added softness and conditioning.
      • Keep It Colorful; dpHUE Apple Cider Vinegar Hair Rinse seals the hair’s cuticle with color-locking technology so you can keep your gorgeous color fresh and vibrant. It's a color-safe breakthrough...
      • Shine On; Dull, brittle or frizzy hair can be a result of high acidity brought on by perspiration and environmental factors. Apple cider vinegar helps to maintain the scalp’s pH, resulting in...

      Last update on 2025-04-19 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

      When I want to skip shampoo, I use this to wash my hair. The nozzle makes it simple to apply the product right where I need it. There is no waste, so you get full value for your money!

      No products found.

      I was curious about using apple cider vinegar, but I had just colored my curls and felt unsure. Luckily, I discovered this shampoo and conditioner set. Now, I can enjoy the benefits of apple cider vinegar without worry. All I can say is WOW! This product truly leaves my curls clean and healthy.

      FAQ

      Is an ACV rinse for everyone?

      • ACV rinse is best for high porosity hair. ACV rinse may not be best for low porosity hair.
      • When should you use an ACV for curly hair?

        • If you feel like there is a ton of gunk and product build-up on your hair, use ACV rinse as a substitute for your regular shampoo.
        • How often should I use AVC rinse?

          • You can use ACV rinse once or twice a week. For low porosity hair, you can use this once or twice a month.
          • Can you use ACV rinse to clarify your hair?

            • Yes, ACV rinse can clarify your hair. It also helps in exfoliating the scalp to prevent flaking and dandruff.
            • What’s the difference between AVC rinse and a clarifying shampoo?

              • ACV rinse is a good substitute for clarifying shampoo if you want to go no poo. A clarifying shampoo is still the best way to cleanse your hair from gunk and product build-up. So even if you use ACV rinse for cleansing your hair, you still need to do a reset wash using a clarifying shampoo.
              • Can we directly apply apple cider vinegar to the hair?

                • It is not advisable to apply pure apple cider vinegar to your hair. Dilute ACV with water to create a rinse. Use ACV rinse to cleanse your hair instead of pure ACV.
                • Can too much ACV ruin my curly hair?

                  • Yes, excessive ACV can harm your curls. ACV contains acid that might damage your hair if applied in excess to your hair.
                  • What are there side effects of using ACV rinse on the hair?

                    •  Excessive use of ACV rinse can damage your damage. Also, AVC rinses if gets in contact with your eyes can cause irritation.
                    • Will my hair smell weird if I use ACV rinse?

                      • ACV rinse can leave a smell on your hair but only for a short while. The smell will go away in no time.
                      • Takeaway

                        Apple cider vinegar offers many health benefits, including helping your hair and scalp. However, it may not work for everyone. The acid in ACV can sometimes irritate your skin. Before adding it to your hair care routine, do a small patch test to check if it suits your skin and hair. Give it a try to see if ACV works well for you and your curls.   

                         

                         

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