
Acne
Apple cider vinegar for pimples
Payal Bhattacharya
Apple cider vinegar (ACV) is a natural home remedy for acne. It is not just a fad but a tried and tested treatment to get rid of pimples. With changing climate and the arrival of the monsoon, the chances of getting pimples caused by bacteria increase.
Apple cider vinegar, also known as acetic acid, helps reduce inflammation and redness caused by acne and prevents it from recurring. Read on to learn more about using apple cider vinegar for pimples and acne scars.
What is apple cider vinegar?
Apple cider vinegar is a type of vinegar that is made from fermented apples. It is usually available in an organic form and is considered a healthy substitute for cooking vinegar. It is a good source of vitamins and minerals such as potassium, magnesium, calcium, and iron. Apple cider vinegar has several benefits for our skin and hair. ACV helps treat acne, prevent premature ageing, and can be used as a skin toner.
How can apple cider vinegar help cure acne?
Apple cider vinegar contains natural antibacterial and antifungal qualities that aid in removing acne-causing germs. ACV is alkaline, which is excellent for acne-prone skin because it helps keep the skin's pH levels stable. It also inhibits bacteria buildup and eliminates dead skin cells.
The most effective ways to use apple cider vinegar for acne
Before we use apple cider vinegar on our skin, we should remember that it might cause irritation and inflammation when applied topically. We should always dilute it before any application.
- Face wash: Apple cider vinegar works well as a face cleanser to remove dirt and bacteria from the skin. We can mix 1/4 cup of hot water with 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar and use it as a face wash for pimples.
- Face mask: We can mix 1 tsp besan (gram flour), 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar, 1 tbsp honey, and 1 tsp rose water and apply this mixture to our faces and rinse after 15 minutes. This is an excellent way of using apple cider vinegar for acne scars.
- Toner: Apple cider vinegar for acne is effective because it can reduce bacteria on the skin, especially ones that cause acne. We can combine 2 tsp apple cider vinegar with a glass of water to make a toner. Rose water and lavender essential oil are optional additives to this mixture. If we have dry skin, we can reduce ACV to 1 tsp.
- Scrub: Raw honey and sugar exfoliate the skin without drying it out. Apple cider vinegar can help with skin cleansing too. Although this treatment is gentle, it should only be used 1-3 times a week. Mix 3 tbsp raw honey with 2 tbsp sugar and 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar. We can apply this mixture to our face and let it sit for a minute or two before gently scrubbing in circular motions. We should wipe with a warm towel after this.
If we experience skin irritation or allergies caused by apple cider vinegar, we can try other effective home remedies for pimples and acne.
Things to consider before using ACV for pimples
- Always buy organic ACV, as the non-organic option might have added preservatives and chemicals, which can do more harm than good for our skin.
- If we are allergic to apples or have sensitive skin, it is best to avoid ACV as it might cause allergic reactions.
- ACV is alkaline, which is great for acne-prone skin. But, if we have dry and sensitive skin, it is advisable to mix ACV with honey or aloe vera gel to make it more hydrating and nourishing.
- It is always better to consult a dermatologist before using ACV for acne. A dermatologist can tell us the right dosage and ways to use ACV for pimples.
Best apple cider vinegar-enriched products
Our regular skincare routine has many benefits to using apple cider vinegar for pimples and acne scars. Mixing apple cider vinegar with other additives can enhance its positive effects on our skin. Here are some good apple cider vinegar-enriched products:
1. Wow, Skin Science apple cider vinegar face wash

Customer Rating: 4.4 / 5
Net Volume: 100ml
MRP Price: RS 249/-
Wow, Skin Science apple cider vinegar face wash prevents breakouts and uses natural ingredients.
Explore: Best Recommended Face wash by Wow
2. Mamaearth Oil Free Moisturizer with Apple Cider Vinegar for Acne Prone Skin

Customer Rating: 4.3 / 5
Net Volume: 80ml
MRP Price: RS 299/-
Mamaearth Oil Free Moisturizer with Apple Cider Vinegar for Acne Prone Skin is non-comedogenic and helps balance the skin's pH levels.
Explore: Top selling Face Moisturizer by Mamaearth
3. The Gemblue Bio Care Apple Cider Vinegar Scrub

Customer Rating: N/A
Net Volume: 500ml
MRP Price: RS 299/-
The Gemblue Bio Care Apple Cider Vinegar Scrub is suitable for all skin types and helps rejuvenate and exfoliate our skin.
Explore: Amazing face Scrub by GemBlue
4. Alps Goodness Acne Control Toner for Acne Prone Skin with Apple Cider Vinegar and Tea Tree Oil

Customer Rating: 4.1 / 5
Net Volume: 110ml
MRP Price: RS 235/-
Alps Goodness Acne Control Toner for Acne Prone Skin with Apple Cider Vinegar and Tea Tree Oil helps tighten pores and minimise acne scars.
Explore: Top Rated Toner By Alps Goodness
5. Alps Goodness Acne Control French Green Clay Mask with Tea Tree and Apple Cider Vinegar

Customer Rating: 4.2 / 5
Net Volume: 50g
MRP Price: RS 250/-
Alps Goodness Acne Control French Green Clay Mask with Tea Tree and Apple Cider Vinegar nourishes and moisturises our skin. It is an ideal option for all skin types.
Explore: Best rated Clay Maks By Alps Goodness
FAQs
1. Can apple cider vinegar cause more acne?
Undiluted apple cider vinegar may cause skin irritation and exacerbate acne, induce inflammation or worsen acne scars.
2. How does apple cider vinegar help acne overnight?
ACV should not be used overnight. It can dry out or burn our skin. We should apply diluted apple cider vinegar on dark spots and blemishes for 15 minutes and then rinse.
3. How long does it take for apple cider vinegar to clear acne?
We will not experience immediate results if we use apple cider vinegar for acne. It takes 4 to 6 weeks for a complete skin-cell turnover. Hence it might take that long for the benefits to kick in.
Acne can be uncomfortable and unpleasant. If we don't have apple cider vinegar at home, we can use other ingredients from our kitchen that make the perfect home remedies for body acne.
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About Payal Bhattacharya
Payal is an editor at Purplle.com. She believes that the world will be a much better place if everyone owns a cat, it’s bizarre but true. She’s very sensitive and particular about her skincare routines and never skips it even for a single day. She loves to read about intimate hygiene and educate herself about female and male personal care which clearly reflects in her writings.









