6 Benefits of Apple Cider Vinegar Baths—and How to Enjoy One

Never tried an apple cider vinegar bath? It's not too late! Apple cider vinegar (ACV) may not be new, but it's a pantry essential praised for its wellness benefits. Taking an ACV bath has gained popularity in beauty routines, with numerous claimed benefits for skin, hair, and more. Experts explain everything you need to know about an ACV bath, its benefits, and how to create your own soaking solution.

Health Benefits of an Apple Cider Vinegar Bath

An apple cider vinegar bath involves adding ACV to your bath water. Many claim that soaking in an ACV-infused bath can improve health. Given its antifungal, antimicrobial, and anti-inflammatory properties, an ACV bath mixture may offer various benefits.

While not all apple cider vinegar remedies are scientifically proven, they are widely believed to help with various health issues. Here are some of the most common benefits associated with apple cider vinegar baths.

Moisturizes Dry Skin and Eczema

Jennifer Santiago, former director of brand communications at Bragg Live Foods, suggests that ACV’s natural antimicrobial properties make it a great option for soaking to alleviate minor irritations, rashes, or for exfoliation. Due to its acidic nature, containing acetic and citric acid (an alpha-hydroxy acid), ACV works as a mild exfoliant, according to board-certified dermatologist Joshua Zeichner, MD.

Zeichner further explains that an apple cider vinegar bath can be beneficial for sunburns or dull, dry skin. "With its antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory benefits, apple cider vinegar is a popular DIY treatment for various skin issues," he states. The mild acidity of ACV helps restore the skin’s barrier, a key benefit for those with eczema.

Helps Clear Acne Breakouts

Soaking in an apple cider vinegar bath can help prevent acne flare-ups by eliminating bacteria that can clog pores. ACV is also commonly used as a spot treatment for pimples and warts. Its anti-inflammatory properties help soothe the skin without causing excessive dryness. Additionally, Santiago points out that ACV’s astringent (oil-controlling) qualities help reduce the appearance of pores, which is why it's a key ingredient in many DIY toners, as noted by Zeichner.

Eases Joint Pain and Inflammation

While not yet scientifically confirmed, apple cider vinegar’s anti-inflammatory properties may offer relief from joint pain caused by inflammation. Although this treatment may not work for everyone or for all types of pain, it could be a worthwhile remedy to try.

Reduces Scalp Dandruff

Rinsing your hair and scalp with apple cider vinegar can help eliminate dandruff. A common cause of dandruff is a dry scalp, which ACV can help address by forming a protective moisture barrier, similar to how it works on your skin. Additionally, ACV’s antifungal properties can target dandruff at its source.

Reduces Body Odor

Soaking in an apple cider vinegar bath can help reduce body odor by eliminating the bacteria responsible for causing it. While it may not offer a permanent solution, it's a natural way to tackle odor, particularly in areas like your feet and armpits.

Eases Yeast Infections

Yeast infections, caused by bacteria or fungi, may be alleviated by soaking in an ACV bath. While more research is necessary, there are strong claims supporting this natural remedy.

"It probably aids in cleansing due to its anti-yeast qualities," notes dermatologist Rachel Nazarian, MD. "Because apple cider vinegar is antimicrobial, anti-yeast, and anti-fungal, it helps eliminate bacteria and other microorganisms from the skin." Nazarian suggests that 1 teaspoon of ACV is sufficient to add to a bath. "It is generally safe and well-tolerated when used in a diluted bath," she advises.

How to Enjoy an Apple Cider Vinegar Bath

When preparing an apple cider vinegar soak, you don't require much vinegar. Given its strong acidity, dilution is essential to ensure the bath is soothing without causing any irritation. Follow these simple steps to prepare your apple cider vinegar bath.

Necessary Ingredients

• Water
• 1/2 cup to 2 cups organic apple cider vinegar
• Epsom salts (optional)
• Essential oils (optional)
• Bathtub
• Washcloth

How to Follow the Steps

1. Fill a clean bathtub with warm water. (Be mindful not to make the water too hot, as it could irritate or dry your skin.) A soothing bath requires warm water, and it’s better to have the tub nearly full to accommodate the addition of apple cider vinegar without causing overflow when you step in.
2. Pour in the apple cider vinegar. Add your preferred amount of ACV to the warm water. Experts suggest using anywhere from 1/2 cup to 2 cups of organic apple cider vinegar. If you have sensitive skin, it might be wise to start with a smaller amount and gradually increase it after testing.
3. Add optional extras. Santiago suggests enhancing the bath with detoxifying Epsom salts and any essential oils you like. Essential oils can mask the ACV scent, though it typically fades quickly—mostly right after pouring it in.
4. Stir the water. Mix the apple cider vinegar into the water thoroughly to ensure an even distribution.
5. Relax and enjoy your soak. Step into the bathtub and enjoy your bath. Soak for around 15 minutes (20 minutes max) to fully reap the benefits of your apple cider vinegar bath. Using a washcloth during your soak can offer extra exfoliation for your skin.
6. Rinse off and dry your skin. After your soak, rinse off the ACV with fresh water. Pat your skin dry gently with a towel—avoid rubbing.

My Experience with ACV Baths

Potential Risks of ACV Baths

Nazarian stresses the importance of diluting apple cider vinegar before applying it to the skin and scalp. Here are some of the key reasons why this is crucial.

May Cause Irritation to Sensitive Skin

ACV baths can have negative effects on certain individuals. "[An ACV bath] can potentially aggravate healing and scarring, and irritate sensitive skin, so if you're using it for hair, skin, or anything else, make sure it's diluted and applied for a short period," Nazarian advises.

"Prolonged exposure, such as leaving it on the skin for more than a few minutes or using more concentrated forms, can lead to significant damage by causing burns or irritation, especially with high concentrations of ACV," Nazarian warns.

Potential to Cause Chemical Burns

In rare instances, an ACV bath could lead to chemical burns and itching. In fact, concentrations as low as 2.5% are used in burn centers to prevent certain types of wound infections. "There aren't many scientific studies proving the benefits of apple cider vinegar for hair or skin, but there are documented cases where it has caused chemical burns," Nazarian cautions.

Possible Allergic Reactions

Some individuals may have an allergic reaction to ACV, which could cause redness, itching, or a rash after exposure. If you're allergic to apples (Malus domestica), apple juice, or vinegar, it's best to avoid an ACV bath.

Frequently Asked Questions

• How often should I use an apple cider vinegar bath?

  Santiago suggests using ACV baths no more than a few times a week. Nazarian, however, recommends a more cautious approach. "It's probably safe for occasional use, but because acidic components can break down delicate skin tissue, I wouldn't advise using it daily," Nazarian says. "Once a week at most is ideal."

• Is it safe to use ACV in a bath if I have open wounds or cuts?

  Although ACV baths may help with skin healing and scarring, it's best to avoid them if you have open wounds or cuts. The vinegar can sting upon contact with broken skin, and prolonged exposure or improper dilution can irritate your skin, potentially slowing down the healing process.

• Does apple cider vinegar help draw out toxins?

  While apple cider vinegar is often hailed for its detoxifying properties, there is little scientific proof to support the claim that it actively removes toxins from the body. The body already does an excellent job of detoxifying through the kidneys, liver, and intestines. Although ACV might not detoxify your system, an ACV bath can still offer the benefits mentioned earlier.