Does apple cider vinegar help matted hair?

Answered by Tom Adger

Apple cider vinegar can definitely help with matted hair. Matted hair occurs when strands of hair become tangled and knotted together, making it difficult to comb or brush through. This can happen due to various reasons, such as not properly detangling hair, excessive heat styling, or even sleeping with wet hair.

Apple cider vinegar has several properties that make it effective in treating matted hair. Firstly, it helps to balance the pH of both the hair and scalp. Our hair and scalp have a natural pH level, and when this balance is disrupted, it can lead to various issues, including tangling and matting of the hair. ACV helps to restore and maintain the optimal pH level, which in turn helps to prevent and reduce tangling.

Additionally, ACV has a flattening and closing effect on the hair cuticle. The hair cuticle is the outermost layer of the hair shaft and can become raised and rough, causing the hair to tangle and mat easily. The acidic nature of apple cider vinegar helps to smooth down the cuticle, making the hair smoother and easier to detangle.

To use apple cider vinegar for matted hair, you can create a simple DIY hair rinse. Mix equal parts of apple cider vinegar and water in a spray bottle. After shampooing and conditioning your hair, spray the mixture onto your scalp and hair, focusing on the matted areas. Let it sit for a few minutes to allow the vinegar to work its magic, then gently comb or brush through the tangles. The acidity of the vinegar will help to loosen the knots and make them easier to detangle.

It’s important to note that apple cider vinegar should be diluted before use, as using it undiluted can be too harsh for the hair and scalp. The dilution ratio of equal parts vinegar and water is a good starting point, but you can adjust it based on your hair’s needs and sensitivity.

In addition to treating matted hair, apple cider vinegar also offers other benefits for your hair and scalp. It can help to remove product buildup, excess oil, and dandruff, leaving your scalp clean and refreshed. It also adds shine to your hair, reduces frizz, and improves overall hair health.

Apple cider vinegar is a natural and effective remedy for matted hair. Its pH-balancing and cuticle-smoothing properties help to detangle and soften the hair, making it easier to manage and style. Give it a try and see the difference it can make for your hair!