Benefits Of Vinegar On The Skin

Benefits of Vinegar on the Skin

Dec 15, 2010 | By Ashley Tyson

Vinegar has a longstanding presence in folk medicine, particularly apple cider vinegar. The liquid can help remedy a variety of skin conditions due to the acidic properties of the vinegar. There are several benefits to using vinegar, which include its inexpensive price tag, the absence of added chemicals and the convenience. Although vinegar is generally safe to use on the skin, it can cause discoloration if used in excess.

Antifungal

Vinegar is naturally antifungal and can help to eliminate fungal infections of the skin, such as ringworm, athlete's foot and jock itch, according to Cal Orey in the book "The Healing Powers of Vinegar." The acetic acid helps to kill the microorganism and prevent regeneration, which can quickly spread in the proper conditions. Simply soak a small cloth in vinegar, either apple cider or white wine, and apply to the skin infection. Orey says that the vinegar will not scar the skin, as other topical applications can do.

Itch Relief

Itchy skin can be exceedingly irritating. Whether it's the result of the weather, rashes, allergies or chronic skin conditions psoriasis, vinegar can help quell the inflammation and bring relief. In the book "Backyard Medicine," Julie Bruton-Seal and Matthew Seal suggest adding approximately one cup of white or red wine vinegar to a bath and soaking in it for 30 minutes. Since it heavily dilutes in the bath, you may do this several times without causing discoloration or further irritation.

Toner

Vinegar tonics are natural and effective alternatives to commercial toners because they do not have the harsh addition of alcohol. Generally, vinegar toners will use additional herbs such as witch hazel, chamomile or lavender to soothe and heal the skin, according to Maggie Oster in the book "Herbal Vinegar." The astringent properties of the vinegar helps to keep blemishes at bay while keeping skin toned and balanced. The author recommends using a high-quality apple cider vinegar or wine vinegar.