It may seem like a somewhat mundane (and, let's be honest, slightly smelly) ingredient usually relegated to the back of the pantry, but did you know that apple cider vinegar (or ACV, as its friends call it) actually has a ton of health and beauty benefits? It can be used for everything from toning skin to cleansing hair — and there have even been preliminary studies linking the stuff to reducing obesity and helping manage sugar levels in type 2 diabetics. Keep reading to see some of the ways this simple ingredient can be used to nourish your body, inside and out.
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It can help with weight loss
If you're trying to lose a few extra pounds, apple cider vinegar may actually help reduce your appetite while also giving your metabolism a boost. You can mix in a little bit of ACV in a salad as a dressing or (if you can take it) drink two tablespoons of it every day.
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It's an effective hair rinse
Many people swear by the effectiveness of apple cider vinegar as a hair rinse. It helps keep your hair shiny by busting through product buildup, thanks to the acetic acid in the vinegar. To use, mix two tablespoons of ACV with one cup of water. Wash your hair, then pour the mixture onto your hair. Leave it for ten minutes before rinsing. You can also use a spray bottle for easy application.
Oh, and if you're not feeling in the DIY mood, you can also find various apple cider vinegar-based hair products in stores, such as the Redken Color Extend Vinegar Rinse, $24.
Since it has natural antiseptic properties, apple cider vinegar can be used to kill odor-causing bacteria. You can apply a small amount directly onto your underarms to use as a natural deodorant. You can also use it as a preventative underarm detox mask.
This also works for your feet: You can actually make an easy foot soak by mixing four tablespoons of ACV with four cups of water — then just let your feet soak in the mixture for 15 minutes before rinsing.
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It's a great toner for acne-prone skin
Aside from its antiseptic properties, apple cider vinegar also has anti-inflammatory benefits and the included acetic acid means it lightly exfoliates too. This makes it an effective toner to help prevent pimples, reduce scarring and balance your skin's pH. Simply dilute your apple cider vinegar with some water and soak on a clean cotton ball or pad and swipe on your skin. You can also try this ACV toner recipe that has lemon essential oil and witch hazel. And, once again, for the DIY-averse, you can always give this Heritage Store Rosewater Vinegar, $13, a try.
