Do you want to have healthier, shinier hair? If so, you should consider using a mixture of apple cider vinegar and baking soda on your hair.
Apple cider vinegar has natural cleansing properties that can help to remove excess oils and product residue from the scalp and strands, while baking soda is a great natural exfoliant that can help to eliminate dry flakes from the scalp.
Keep on reading to find out about the amazing benefits of apple cider vinegar and baking soda for hair…
The Science Behind Baking Soda and Apple Cider Vinegar
Baking soda, also known as sodium bicarbonate, is alkaline in nature, which means it has a higher pH level.
On the other hand, apple cider vinegar (ACV) is acidic with a lower pH level. The everyday use of these two ingredients can impact your hair’s natural pH balance.
To understand how they work together, let’s first look at your hair’s natural pH level. Healthy hair typically has a pH level between 4.5 and 5.5.
When you maintain this slightly acidic environment, your hair can effectively retain moisture and stay protected from environmental pollutants.
Baking soda is alkaline with a pH level around 9. When mixed with water, baking soda can raise your hair’s pH level, causing it to open up its cuticles.
This process can effectively remove dirt, excess oils, and product buildup from your hair. However, using baking soda alone might damage your hair due to its high alkalinity. Here’s where apple cider vinegar comes into play.
Apple cider vinegar has a pH level of approximately 3, which is around the same pH level as your hair. By using ACV after washing your hair with baking soda, you can effectively rebalance your hair’s pH level.
The acetic acid in apple cider vinegar can help close the hair cuticles opened by baking soda, locking in moisture and making your hair shinier.
The perfect combination of these two ingredients allows you to cleanse your hair without causing any long-term damage.
To get the best results, mix one part of baking soda with three parts of water, and then use that to wash your hair. Afterward, mix one part ACV with two parts water, and use that as a rinse.
Be sure to monitor how your hair reacts to this treatment since everyone’s hair is different. You might want to adjust the quantities or frequency of usage depending on your specific needs.
What Is An Apple Cider Vinegar And Baking Soda Hair Rinse?
An apple cider vinegar (ACV) and baking soda hair rinse is a simple, natural hair treatment that you can use to keep your hair healthy and vibrant.
Combining these two ingredients, you create a potent solution that works wonders for your hair and scalp. It helps in balancing pH levels, removing product buildup, and cleansing the scalp, among other benefits.
To make an ACV and baking soda hair rinse, you need to mix equal parts of apple cider vinegar and water. Add a teaspoon of baking soda to this mixture and stir well until the baking soda is dissolved.
Once your rinse is ready, you can apply it to your wet hair after shampooing, making sure to massage it into your scalp.
Leave it on for a couple of minutes and then rinse it off with water. This simple routine can be done once or twice a week, depending on your hair type and needs.
Apple cider vinegar is an excellent ingredient for your hair as it has antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties that can help combat dandruff and maintain a healthy scalp. Additionally, it helps to smoothen the hair cuticle, preventing frizz and promoting shine.
On the other hand, baking soda works as a gentle exfoliant, removing dead skin cells and excess oil from your scalp. This helps to unclog hair follicles, promoting healthy hair growth.
Baking soda aids in cleaning hair by removing product buildup, which can be responsible for hampering your hair’s natural beauty.
What Are The Benefits Of Apple Cider Vinegar And Baking Soda For Hair?
When it comes to hair care, apple cider vinegar (ACV) and baking soda can be your allies. These two ingredients offer various benefits for your hair and scalp health.
Here are a few reasons why you should consider incorporating them into your hair care routine:
1. Balancing pH levels: Your scalp and hair need a balanced pH level to maintain their health. ACV has an acidic nature, while baking soda is alkaline. When combined, they help to balance your scalp’s pH, enhancing hair growth and overall health.
2. Fighting dandruff: ACV’s acetic acid can help combat dandruff-causing fungi, while baking soda’s exfoliating properties help remove dead skin cells. Together, they can help you maintain a healthy scalp and keep dandruff at bay.
3. Cleansing: ACV and baking soda are both great for deep cleansing without causing damage. They effectively remove product buildup, oils, and dirt from your hair, helping your locks feel fresh and clean.
4. Detangling: ACV acts as a natural detangler, making it easier to manage your hair. It smooths the hair cuticle, reducing knots and tangles, and leaving you with soft, manageable tresses.
5. Improving scalp health: ACV and baking soda can both aid in improving scalp health. They help in reducing inflammation, soothing irritation, and promoting healthy hair growth.
Benefits of Baking Soda And Apple Cider Vinegar For Different Hair Types
Apple cider vinegar (ACV) and baking soda can work wonders for different hair types. When combined, they create a powerful natural DIY hair care recipe. Let’s explore how they benefit your hair and suit various hair types.
Firstly, apple cider vinegar is known for balancing the pH level of your scalp. This is important for maintaining healthy hair, as an imbalanced pH can lead to dryness, irritation, and other hair issues.
ACV also has excellent antimicrobial properties, which help in reducing dandruff and soothing itchiness.
On the other hand, baking soda acts as a gentle cleansing agent. It can efficiently remove product build-up and excess oil from your hair, leaving it clean and refreshed.
Baking soda also works to exfoliate your scalp, improving blood circulation and promoting hair growth.
Now let’s discuss how ACV and baking soda benefit different hair types:
Oily Hair: If you have oily hair, ACV can help regulate oil production and prevent greasiness, while baking soda gently cleanses your scalp.
Mix equal parts of water and apple cider vinegar, then add a tablespoon of baking soda. Massage the mixture onto your scalp and rinse thoroughly after a few minutes.
Dry Hair: For those with dry hair, ACV works to condition and moisturize your hair without weighing it down.
Dilute apple cider vinegar with water in a 1:2 ratio and add half a teaspoon of baking soda. Apply the solution to your hair and rinse it off after a few minutes.
Curly Hair: Curly hair is prone to frizz and tangles, but ACV can help smooth your curls and make them more manageable.
Combine equal parts of water and apple cider vinegar with a pinch of baking soda. Massage into your hair, focusing on the curls, and rinse after a couple of minutes.
Color-Treated Hair: If you have color-treated hair, ACV can help preserve your color and add shine.
Mix 1 part of apple cider vinegar with 3 parts of water, and add a quarter teaspoon of baking soda. Apply the solution to your hair after washing and rinse thoroughly.
How Baking Soda And ACV Address Dandruff And Scalp Issues
Baking soda and apple cider vinegar (ACV) are known to be great natural remedies for addressing dandruff and scalp issues.
When used together, these simple ingredients can work wonders for improving your overall hair and scalp health. Let’s discuss how the duo can help you fight pesky dandruff and other scalp-related problems.
Baking soda acts as a gentle and effective exfoliant for your scalp. By massaging it into your scalp, you’ll be able to get rid of dead skin cells and product buildup that can contribute to dandruff and irritation.
It’s also beneficial for hair that becomes greasy easily as it absorbs excess oil without over-drying your scalp and hair.
Baking soda can help to balance the pH levels, meaning it creates a more alkaline environment, discouraging the growth of fungi that can cause dandruff.
ACV boasts antifungal and antibacterial properties which can help soothe and heal your scalp. Its natural acidity can help maintain the right pH balance, creating an inhospitable environment for fungi and bacteria growth.
As a result, using ACV in your hair care routine can help prevent dandruff and address any existing scalp issues.
To see the benefits, try using baking soda and ACV in your hair care routine:
- Mix equal parts baking soda and water to form a paste and apply it to your damp scalp, massaging gently for a few minutes. Don’t worry about covering all of your hair – just focus on your scalp.
- Rinse your hair and scalp thoroughly with water to remove the baking soda.
- Dilute ACV with water at a 1:2 ratio (one part ACV to two parts water). Apply the mixture to your scalp and hair, making sure to saturate your strands evenly.
- After a minute or two, rinse your hair with water to remove the ACV.
Remember that while baking soda and ACV provide many benefits for your hair and scalp, excessive use can cause dryness. Make sure to only use this treatment once or twice a week and adjust as needed for your specific hair needs.
Can Baking Soda And Apple Cider Vinegar Improve Hair Growth And Hair Strength?
Baking soda and apple cider vinegar are common household items that, when used together, can potentially improve your hair growth and strength.
When you use baking soda as a hair cleanser, it helps in removing dirt, oil, and product buildup from your hair. It possesses a slightly abrasive texture which exfoliates the scalp, unclogging hair follicles and promoting hair growth.
Plus, baking soda can balance the pH level of your scalp, making it an ideal environment for healthy hair growth.
Apple cider vinegar, on the other hand, has a plethora of benefits for the hair. It contains acetic acid, which can help to clarify and close the hair cuticles.
This allows your hair to absorb and retain moisture, resulting in a shinier, smoother appearance.
Apple cider vinegar also has antimicrobial properties, which can help to prevent scalp infections and dandruff, further promoting a healthier environment for hair growth.
When using these two ingredients together, you can create an all-natural hair rinse that fosters hair growth and strength:
- Prepare a mixture of 1 part baking soda and 3 parts water, adjusting the amount based on the length and thickness of your hair.
- Apply the baking soda mixture to your hair and scalp, gently massaging it in.
- After a few minutes, rinse your hair thoroughly with water.
- Follow with a mixture of 1 part apple cider vinegar and 2 parts water, pouring it slowly over your head.
- Once again, rinse your hair with water to remove any remaining residue.
How to Create Your Own DIY Baking Soda and Apple Cider Vinegar Shampoo
Baking soda and apple cider vinegar offer a fantastic DIY apple cider and baking soda shampoo recipe that promotes hair health. With these simple ingredients, you’ll create your own DIY shampoo in no time.
Step 1: Gather your ingredients and materials To create your DIY baking soda and apple cider vinegar shampoo, you’ll need the following:
- Baking soda
- Apple cider vinegar
- Two empty, clean squeeze bottles or jars with lids
- Measuring spoons
- Water
Step 2: Prepare the baking soda mixture In your first bottle, combine one part of baking soda with three parts of water.
For example, mix two tablespoons of baking soda with six tablespoons of water. If you have long hair, you may want to double the amount.
Shake the bottle well, so everything is thoroughly mixed. This mixture will act as your shampoo, helping to remove buildup and cleanse your scalp.
Step 3: Prepare the apple cider vinegar mixture In the second bottle, mix one part of apple cider vinegar with four parts water.
You can add a few drops of your favorite essential oil if you like, to mask the vinegar smell. This mixture will act as your conditioner, balancing the pH of your scalp and leaving your hair soft and shiny.
Step 4: Using your DIY baking soda and apple cider vinegar shampoo When you’re ready to use your DIY shampoo, first wet your hair thoroughly.
Apply the baking soda mixture to your scalp, massaging it gently for a couple of minutes. Rinse your hair well with water to remove the baking soda.
Then, apply the apple cider vinegar mixture from the mid-length of your hair down to the tips, avoiding the scalp. Leave it on for a few minutes before rinsing out thoroughly with water.
Now you know how to create and use your very own DIY baking soda and apple cider vinegar shampoo – keep in mind that it might take some time to adjust to using a natural method like this.
What Are The Downsides Of Using Apple Cider Vinegar And Baking Soda On Your Hair?
While apple cider vinegar and baking soda offer various benefits for hair care, they might not be suitable for everyone. It’s essential to be aware of potential downsides before incorporating these ingredients into your hair care routine.
Using apple cider vinegar and baking soda in high concentrations can have negative effects on your hair.
Apple cider vinegar is acidic, and if used too often or in strong concentrations, it can dry out your hair, leading to dry and brittle hair.
On the other hand, baking soda is alkaline, which can disrupt your hair’s natural pH balance, causing damage to the hair cuticles.
Your scalp might also be sensitive to these ingredients, as vinegar and baking soda might cause irritation, itching, or even a burning sensation.
Pay close attention to how your scalp feels after using these ingredients and discontinue use if you experience discomfort.
The combination of vinegar and baking soda might not suit all hair types. For instance, if you have color-treated hair, you should be cautious when applying apple cider vinegar and baking soda, as they may strip your hair of color.
Not all hair types will benefit from using apple cider vinegar and baking soda. Curly or coarse hair may experience more dryness and frizz due to their alkaline nature, which can temporarily open the hair cuticle and lead to loss of moisture.
To minimize potential issues, it’s advisable to:
- Use apple cider vinegar and baking soda in moderation.
- Dilute them properly before applying them to your hair.
- Perform a patch test on your skin before using them on your scalp or hair strands.
- Monitor your hair’s condition and your scalp’s comfort level while using these ingredients.
What Do Baking Soda And Apple Cider Vinegar Do To Hair Dyed Hair?
When you have dyed hair, it’s essential to take care of it properly. Incorporating baking soda and apple cider vinegar into your hair care routine may provide some benefits for your colored tresses.
Baking soda acts as a natural clarifying shampoo agent, helping to remove hair care products build-up and excess oil from your hair.
This can be especially helpful for dyed hair as it may help preserve the vibrancy of your hair color.
To use baking soda on your dyed hair, simply mix a small amount of baking soda with water to create a paste and gently massage it into your scalp and hair.
Then rinse thoroughly and follow up with your regular shampoo and conditioner.
Apple cider vinegar is another excellent addition to your hair care routine, thanks to its acidity which can help balance your hair’s pH levels.
By doing so, apple cider vinegar can help seal your hair cuticles, locking in moisture and protecting your hair color.
To use, mix equal parts of apple cider vinegar and water, and apply the mixture to your hair after shampooing. Allow it to sit for a few minutes and then rinse thoroughly with cool water.
Here are a few key points to remember when using baking soda and apple cider vinegar on dyed hair:
- Always perform a patch test on a small section of your hair before trying any new treatment, as it may react differently to different hair types and colors.
- Use these treatments sparingly, as excessive use of baking soda and apple cider vinegar can lead to hair dryness and irritation.
- Be cautious when using baking soda on darker hair colors, as it may cause the color to fade.
Can Baking Soda Damage Your Hair Shaft and Cuticle?
Baking soda is a popular ingredient in many DIY hair care remedies, but it’s essential to be aware of the potential effects it can have on your hair.
Although baking soda can help remove build-up and clarify your hair, it might also damage your hair shaft and cuticle.
When using baking soda on your hair, its rough texture can cause the cuticle layer, which is the outermost layer of your hair strand, to lift.
When the cuticle lifts, it makes your hair more susceptible to damage from external factors, and can lead to dry and brittle hair.
The texture of baking soda can also cause breakage and weaken the overall structure of your hair strands.
Baking soda has a high pH level (around 9), which is much higher than your hair and scalp’s natural pH (between 4.5 and 5.5).
This alkaline nature of baking soda can disrupt the pH balance of your hair, causing the hair cuticle to swell and become more vulnerable to damage. As a result, your hair may appear dull and lifeless, and feel more prone to breakage.
It’s crucial to understand your hair’s specific needs and weigh the potential benefits against potential damage.
Using a baking soda mixture occasionally might be beneficial for those with oily hair or hair product build-up. However, be cautious about using it excessively, especially if you have fine or color-treated hair.
To minimize potential hair damage, consider following up your baking soda treatment with an acidic rinse (like apple cider vinegar) to help close the cuticle and restore the pH balance of your hair.
Make sure you monitor your hair’s condition and reduce the frequency of using baking soda if you notice any issues, such as dryness, breakage, or a change in hair texture.
How Does Apple Cider Vinegar Help in Managing Oily Scalp?
Apple cider vinegar (ACV) is a fantastic remedy for managing an oily scalp.
If you are troubled by an excess production of sebum, which is the natural oil produced by the scalp, you can use ACV to achieve better scalp health. Here’s how ACV can help you control oiliness in your scalp:
- Balancing pH levels: ACV has natural acidic properties that help balance the pH levels of your scalp. A balanced pH can prevent excess sebum production and make your hair less oily.
- Antibacterial and antifungal: Oily scalp can sometimes lead to scalp infections due to the buildup of bacteria and fungi. ACV has antibacterial and antifungal properties, which help in keeping your scalp clean and free from infection.
- Exfoliating dead skin: The mild acids in ACV gently exfoliate dead skin cells from the scalp. This helps in unclogging hair follicles and reducing excess oil buildup.
To use apple cider vinegar for your oily scalp, follow these simple steps:
- Dilute ACV with water in a 1:4 ratio (1 part ACV to 4 parts water).
- After shampooing, gently pour the diluted ACV solution onto your scalp and hair.
- Massage the solution into your scalp for a few minutes.
- Rinse with cool water.
Can I Use Baking Soda and Apple Cider Vinegar For My Weekly Hair Care Routine?
You can use baking soda and apple cider vinegar in your weekly hair care routine. These two natural ingredients offer numerous benefits for your hair health:
- Balance pH levels: Baking soda and vinegar can help balance your hair’s pH levels, ensuring a healthy scalp, to clean the scalp and hair.
- Remove buildup: The combination of baking soda and apple cider vinegar is effective at removing product buildup and impurities from your hair.
- Promote shine: Apple cider vinegar works to smooth hair cuticles, giving your hair a shiny, healthy appearance.
To use them in your routine, you would first mix baking soda with water to create a paste. Apply this paste to your wet hair and massage it gently into your scalp.
Allow the ACV rinse to sit for a few minutes before rinsing thoroughly with water.
Next, mix apple cider vinegar with water to create a rinse solution. Pour this mixture over your hair and scalp, ensuring it’s evenly distributed. Allow it to sit for a few minutes, then rinse off with water.
It’s important to note that while baking soda and apple cider vinegar can be beneficial for your hair, they should be used in moderation:
- Frequency: Experts recommend using this treatment no more than once a week to avoid over-drying or irritating your scalp.
- Dilution: Both baking soda and apple cider vinegar should be diluted with water before use to prevent potential damage the hair or irritation.
Summary
Apple cider vinegar and baking soda can be powerful allies when it comes to hair care. They both have the potential to enhance your hair health by removing product buildup, balancing pH levels, and stimulating healthy hair growth.
However, not all hair types will benefit from using these ingredients in their natural form. Be sure to read up on their benefits and downsides before incorporating them into your routine and pay close attention to how your scalp reacts after using them.
All products featured on Gemma Etc. are PR samples or gifted items, unless otherwise indicated. This post may contain affiliate links. If you wish to find out more, please see my Disclaimer within my navigation bar.