The scalp and acidity & Tv interview
I had the pleasure of being invited back on the QC Life morning show on WBTV this week. And they asked me to give to speak on apple cider rinses. And of course, I was happy to oblige. Want to see the spot? Check it out here https://qclife.wbtv.com/2022/08/22/adding-apple-cider-vinegar-your-hair-care-routine/
Apple cider rinses are not new and have been around for quite some time. And are an option for at-home hair and scalp care. The question is why do it and what does it help?
First, what is apple cider (I will be referring to it as ACV)? ACV is chopped apples and water that are allowed to sit for a long time allowing them to ferment. During the fermenting process, bacteria is converted to an acidic acid. ACV is used in the kitchen as well as its health benefits.
How do ACV and the scalp work well together? Our scalp has a PH level of 4.5 and many hair products can have too high of an alkaline state creating an imbalance in our scalp. With a PH of 3.4-5 ACV the acidic levels are anti-fungal and anti-microbial. So how can we know if our scalp is too alkaline? Often the scalp is dry, sensitive, or prematurely aging. If your scalp is inflamed, red or sore often it is too acidic.
If you are looking for a deep clean and healthy hair strands ACV can be a help. In the process of balancing the PH of the scalp, ACV seals the cuticle of the hair strand locking in color and reducing frizz. For the scalp, it can help sluff off dry skin and reduce any fungal issues that could be the cause of flaking.
Given all these benefits are there any warnings? Undiluted ACV has a PH of 2.3 and causes chemical burns on the scalp and skin. So it must be diluted with 2-4 tablespoons of ACV to 16 ounces of water. You should do a patch test to ensure you do not have any allergies or sensitivities or the solution as well. And all that is needed is a small amount applied to the back of the ear or arm and let it sit for a few minutes. Then rinse it off. Wait 24 hours to ensure there is no irritation. Additionally, if you are using any acidic hair or skin care products this can interact and create irritation as well. Especially if you are using retinol. And lastly, using ACV rinses too frequently can lead to irritation or frizzy hair due to removing too much of the natural oils.
So if you are looking for a scalp balancer for at-home use this is an option. If you do not want to worry about mixing yourself there are professional options as well. Feel free to reach out to me and I am happy to offer suggestions.
