How Apple Cider Vinegar Helps Balance Skin’s pH and Exfoliates

Apple cider vinegar (ACV) is a popular ingredient in natural skincare, and for good reason. Its slightly acidic pH (around 2-3) helps restore the skin’s natural acid mantle, which typically sits at a pH of about 4.5 to 5.5. This balance is essential for keeping your skin’s barrier function intact and protecting it from harmful bacteria and irritants. Using harsh cleansers or other alkaline products can disrupt this balance, leaving your skin dry, irritated, or prone to breakouts.

In addition to balancing the pH, ACV contains acetic acid, malic acid, and lactic acid—natural alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs)—which provide gentle exfoliation. These acids help to slough off dead skin cells, unclog pores, and brighten the complexion, making ACV a natural and effective exfoliant that’s mild enough for regular use, especially when properly diluted.

DIY Apple Cider Vinegar Toner Recipe

This toner is perfect for the fall, as cooler weather can leave skin feeling dry and sensitive. We’ll be combining the pH-balancing properties of ACV with hydrating rose water, soothing witch hazel, and essential oils like rosemary or tea tree for their antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. Here’s how to make it:

Ingredients

• 30g Apple Cider Vinegar (raw, unfiltered)
• 60g Rose Water (hydrating and soothing)
• 10g Witch Hazel (alcohol-free, to soothe and tone)
• 5 drops Rosemary Essential Oil (anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial)
• 3 drops Tea Tree Essential Oil (optional, for acne-prone skin)
• 90g Distilled Water (to dilute and avoid skin irritation)

Steps

1. Prepare Your Work Area: Start by cleaning your workspace and sanitizing any containers and utensils. Use a glass or plastic bottle with a secure cap for storing your toner.
2. Mix the Base Ingredients: In a small mixing bowl, combine the apple cider vinegar, rose water, and witch hazel.
3. Add Essential Oils: Carefully drop in your rosemary essential oil and tea tree oil (if using). Mix well to disperse the oils evenly throughout the liquid.
4. Dilute with Distilled Water: Add the distilled water to the mixture to dilute the ACV and reduce its acidity. This will help ensure the toner is gentle on the skin, especially if you have sensitive skin.
5. Transfer to a Bottle: Pour the mixture into your prepared bottle using a funnel if necessary. Shake well to ensure everything is mixed thoroughly.
6. Label and Store: Store your toner in a cool, dark place. Shake well before each use to ensure the essential oils remain mixed.

How to Use:

After cleansing, apply the toner to a cotton pad or spray directly onto the skin (avoid eyes) and gently pat it in. Follow up with your favorite moisturizer. Use once or twice daily, depending on your skin’s needs.

Patch Testing and Dilution Tips

It’s crucial to patch test any new skincare product—especially one containing active ingredients like apple cider vinegar and essential oils. Here’s how to do it:

1. Apply a small amount of the toner to a discrete area of skin, like the inside of your wrist or behind your ear.
2. Wait for 24-48 hours to see if any irritation, redness, or itching occurs. If the area remains clear, it’s likely safe to use on your face.

Dilution Tips:

• Sensitive Skin: If you have very sensitive or reactive skin, you might want to dilute the ACV further by increasing the amount of distilled water to reduce acidity.
• Oily or Acne-Prone Skin: You can experiment with a stronger ratio (like 1:3 ACV to distilled water) if your skin tolerates it well.

Avoid using undiluted apple cider vinegar directly on your skin, as it can be too acidic and lead to burns or irritation. A typical dilution ratio of 1:2 (ACV to water) works for most people, but always adjust based on your skin’s tolerance.

Benefits of Witch Hazel, Rose Water, and Essential Oils

• Witch Hazel: Known for its anti-inflammatory and astringent properties, witch hazel helps to tighten pores, reduce swelling, and soothe irritation. Be sure to use an alcohol-free version to avoid over-drying.
• Rose Water: A perfect complement to ACV, rose water hydrates and soothes the skin while adding a light floral scent. It’s particularly helpful in calming redness and irritation, making it an excellent balance to the acids in ACV.
• Rosemary Essential Oil: With anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial benefits, rosemary oil helps reduce puffiness, acne, and redness. It can also stimulate circulation, making your skin appear more vibrant and healthy.
• Tea Tree Oil: For those with acne-prone skin, tea tree oil is a great addition. It helps fight off acne-causing bacteria and calms inflammation without stripping the skin.