Are you struggling with cystic acne and looking for a natural solution? Apple cider vinegar has become increasingly popular for its potential health benefits, including treating skin conditions, but does drinking apple cider vinegar help cystic acne?
I’m going to share an in-depth look at whether apple cider vinegar can help reduce the symptoms of cystic acne and how to incorporate it into your regular skincare routine.
What Is Cystic Acne, And How Does It Differ From Other Types Of Acne?
If you’re dealing with acne, it’s important to understand what type of acne you have, as different types require different treatments.
Cystic acne is a severe form of acne that develops when cysts form deep underneath your skin.
It’s the most serious type of acne and is more likely to cause scarring. Here’s how cystic acne differs from other types of acne:
- Acne Vulgaris: This is the most common type of acne, and it includes blackheads, whiteheads, and pimples. Acne vulgaris is usually mild and can be treated with over-the-counter products.
- Severe Acne: This includes all types of acne that are more severe than acne vulgaris, including cystic acne. Severe acne requires more aggressive treatment than mild acne.
- Mild Acne: This includes all types of acne that are less severe than acne vulgaris, including occasional pimples or blackheads.
Cystic acne is different from other types of acne because it involves the development of painful, pus-filled cysts or nodules.
These lesions are larger and deeper than regular pimples and can take longer to heal. Cystic acne is also more likely to cause scarring than other types of acne.
Cystic acne is caused by a combination of factors, including:
- Acne Bacteria: P. acnes bacteria are present on everyone’s skin, but they can cause an acne breakout when they multiply too quickly.
- Excess Oil Production: When your skin produces too much oil, it can clog your pores and lead to the development of acne.
- Hormonal Changes: Hormonal changes during puberty, menstruation, pregnancy, or menopause can all contribute to the development of acne.
- Skin Type: People with oily skin are more likely to develop acne than those with dry or normal skin.
- Skin Conditions: Certain skin conditions, such as rosacea, can make you more prone to developing acne.
Managing cystic acne can be challenging, but there are treatments available. Your dermatologist may recommend a combination of topical and oral medications, such as antibiotics, retinoids, or birth control pills.
In some cases, your dermatologist may also recommend isotretinoin, a powerful medication that can clear up cystic breakouts but has some serious side effects.
How Does Apple Cider Vinegar Benefit The Skin?
If you’re looking for a natural remedy to improve your skin’s health, apple cider vinegar is worth trying.
Apple cider vinegar has been used for centuries as a natural product to improve skin health. Here are some ways apple cider vinegar can benefit your skin:
Antibacterial Properties
Apple cider vinegar has antibacterial properties that can help fight acne-causing bacteria.
The acetic acid in apple cider vinegar can help kill bacteria and prevent it from spreading. It can also help reduce inflammation and redness associated with acne.
Malic Acid and Succinic Acid
Apple cider vinegar contains malic acid and succinic acid, which can help improve skin texture and reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
These acids can also help exfoliate the skin and remove dead skin cells, revealing brighter, smoother skin.
Glycolic Acid
Apple cider vinegar contains glycolic acid, which can help improve skin tone and texture.
Glycolic acid is a natural ingredient that can help exfoliate the skin and improve its overall appearance.
Natural pH Level
Apple cider vinegar has a natural pH level that is similar to the pH level of our skin.
This means that it can help balance the pH level of our skin, which can help improve its overall health and appearance.
Apple Cider Vinegar Toner
One of the most popular ways to use apple cider vinegar for skin is as a toner. To make an apple cider vinegar toner, mix one part apple cider vinegar with two parts water.
Apply the mixture to your skin using a cotton ball or pad. This can help remove excess oil and dirt from your skin and improve its overall health.
Organic Apple Cider Vinegar
When using apple cider vinegar for skin, it’s important to use organic apple cider vinegar.
Organic apple cider vinegar is made from organic apples and does not contain any synthetic ingredients. This can help ensure that you’re using a natural product that is safe for your skin.
Does Drinking Apple Cider Vinegar Help Cystic Acne?
Cystic acne is a severe form of acne that can be painful and difficult to treat. Many people turn to home remedies, such as drinking apple cider vinegar, to help manage their symptoms.
But does drinking apple cider vinegar actually help cystic acne?
There is limited scientific evidence to support the claim that drinking apple cider vinegar can help with cystic acne.
However, some people report that it has helped to reduce their symptoms. Here are a few things to keep in mind if you are considering using apple cider vinegar as a treatment for cystic acne:
- Raw apple cider vinegar is the best type to use for treating acne, as it contains “the mother” – a combination of enzymes, proteins, and friendly bacteria that can be beneficial for your skin.
- Keeros apple cider vinegar is a popular brand that many people use for acne treatment. However, it is important to note that not all apple cider vinegars are created equal, and some may be more effective than others.
- Apple cider vinegar can be used topically as a treatment for acne, but it can also be ingested. If you choose to drink apple cider vinegar, it is recommended to dilute it with water to reduce its acidity. A common ratio is one to two tablespoons of apple cider vinegar to eight ounces of water.
- Drinking apple cider vinegar may help to balance your body’s pH levels, which can be beneficial for your skin. It also has antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties that may help to reduce inflammation and redness associated with cystic acne.
Does Drinking Apple Cider Vinegar Make Acne WORSE?
If you’re considering drinking apple cider vinegar to help with your cystic acne, you might be wondering if it could potentially make your acne worse.
While there’s no clear evidence that drinking apple cider vinegar will make acne worse, there are a few things to keep in mind.
Firstly, drinking apple cider vinegar can be quite acidic, which means it might irritate your skin if you’re already dealing with acne.
To avoid this, you can dilute the apple cider vinegar in water before drinking it. You can use either cool or lukewarm water, depending on your preference.
It’s also important to note that drinking apple cider vinegar won’t necessarily address the root cause of your acne.
If your acne is caused by hormonal imbalances or other underlying health issues, drinking apple cider vinegar is unlikely to make a significant difference.
Another thing to keep in mind is that drinking apple cider vinegar shouldn’t be used as a replacement for other acne treatments.
If you’re currently using acne medications or topical treatments, it’s important to continue using them as directed by your healthcare provider.
Finally, it’s important to pay attention to any other products you’re using on your skin while drinking apple cider vinegar. Some makeup products or other acidic products could potentially irritate your skin further, so it’s important to be mindful of what you’re using and how it might be affecting your skin.
Science Behind Apple Cider Vinegar’s Potential Benefits For Cystic Acne
If you’re struggling with cystic acne, you may have heard that apple cider vinegar could be a potential solution.
But what exactly makes this vinegar beneficial for acne-prone skin? Let’s take a closer look at the science behind apple cider vinegar’s potential benefits for cystic acne.
One of the main components of apple cider vinegar is acetic acid, which has been shown to have antibacterial properties.
This could be particularly beneficial for those with cystic acne, as this type of acne is often caused by bacteria deep within the skin.
Acetic acid may help to regulate the pH balance of your skin, which could help to reduce inflammation and irritation.
Another potential benefit of apple cider vinegar for cystic acne is its content of alpha hydroxy acids, such as malic acid and lactic acid.
These acids can help to exfoliate the skin, removing dead skin cells and unclogging pores. This can help to prevent the buildup of oil and bacteria that can lead to cystic acne.
As well as having direct effects on the skin, apple cider vinegar may also have implications for the health of the skin microbiome.
This is the community of bacteria that live on and within your skin, and it plays an important role in maintaining skin immunity and overall skin health.
Some research has suggested that apple cider vinegar could help to promote the growth of healthy bacteria on the skin, which could in turn help to prevent acne.
It’s important to note that while apple cider vinegar may have potential benefits for cystic acne, it’s not a miracle cure.
It’s always a good idea to talk to your dermatologist before trying any new acne treatment, as they can help you determine the best course of action for your specific skin type and concerns.
Tips On How to Drink Apple Cider Vinegar for Cystic Acne
If you’re looking to try drinking apple cider vinegar to help with your cystic acne, there are a few things to keep in mind. Here are some tips to help you get started:
Dilute the Apple Cider Vinegar
Drinking apple cider vinegar straight can be harsh on your stomach and throat. To avoid any discomfort, it’s best to dilute it with water.
Mix one to two tablespoons of apple cider vinegar with eight ounces of warm water. You can also add a teaspoon of raw honey for taste.
Use a Clean Towel and Cotton Pads
When applying apple cider vinegar topically, it’s important to use a clean towel and cotton pads. This will help prevent the spread of bacteria and reduce the risk of infection.
After washing your face, pat it dry with a clean towel. Then, use a cotton pad to apply the apple cider vinegar to your skin.
Be Gentle with Chemical Exfoliants
Apple cider vinegar contains lactic acid, which is a natural chemical exfoliant. However, if you’re using other chemical exfoliants, like glycolic acid or salicylic acid, it’s important to be gentle.
Over-exfoliating can damage your skin and make your acne worse. Use these products sparingly and follow the instructions carefully.
Consider Spot Treatments
If you have a particularly stubborn cystic acne spot, you can try using apple cider vinegar as a spot treatment.
Dip a cotton swab in apple cider vinegar and apply it directly to the spot. Leave it on for a few minutes, then rinse it off with warm water.
Watch for Hormonal Imbalances
While apple cider vinegar can be helpful for some people with cystic acne, it’s not a cure-all.
If your acne is caused by hormonal imbalances, you may need to address that underlying issue in addition to using apple cider vinegar. Talk to your doctor or a dermatologist for personalized advice.
Be Careful with Coconut Oil
Coconut oil is a popular natural remedy for acne, but it can also clog your pores and make your acne worse. If you’re using coconut oil as a carrier oil for your apple cider vinegar, be careful not to use too much.
Benefits of Apple Cider Vinegar for Overall Health and Wellness
If you’re looking for a natural way to boost your overall health and wellness, apple cider vinegar (ACV) may be worth considering. Here are some of the benefits that ACV can offer:
Healthier Skin
Apple cider vinegar can help improve the appearance and health of your skin.
It has astringent properties that can help tighten and tone your skin, reducing the appearance of pores and fine lines. ACV also contains amino acids that can help keep your skin looking youthful and healthy.
Improved Blood Circulation
Drinking apple cider vinegar can help improve your blood circulation. This can be beneficial for your overall health, as better circulation can help deliver oxygen and nutrients to your cells more efficiently.
Counter Topicals
Apple cider vinegar can be used topically to help treat a variety of skin conditions, including acne, eczema, and psoriasis. Its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties can help soothe and heal irritated skin.
Anti-inflammatory Properties
Apple cider vinegar has anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce inflammation throughout your body. This can be beneficial for a variety of health conditions, including arthritis, allergies, and digestive issues.
Antioxidant Properties
Apple cider vinegar contains antioxidants that can help protect your cells from damage caused by free radicals. This can help reduce your risk of chronic diseases like cancer, heart disease, and Alzheimer’s disease.
Astringent Properties
Apple cider vinegar has astringent properties that can help tighten and tone your skin, reducing the appearance of pores and fine lines.
It can also help balance the pH of your skin, which can be beneficial for those with oily or acne-prone skin.
Summary
Apple cider vinegar has become increasingly popular for its potential health benefits, including treating skin conditions.
And while there is limited scientific evidence to support the claim that drinking apple cider vinegar helps cystic acne specifically, it may have some benefits for overall skin health and wellness.
The acetic acid in apple cider vinegar can help kill bacteria that can cause acne, while also helping to reduce inflammation and irritation.
Apple cider vinegar also contains alpha hydroxy acids that can help exfoliate the skin and unclog pores.
When using apple cider vinegar as a treatment for cystic acne, it’s important to use organic ACV and dilute it with water before drinking or applying topically.
It’s also important to continue following your dermatologist’s treatment plan and take other precautions such as using clean towels and being careful when using other chemical exfoliants.
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