There are so many products out there these days promising to give us radiant, glowing skin that it can make your head spin just choosing one. Luckily, there is one seemingly unlikely candidate for a gorgeous complexion waiting patiently in your local organic grocer’s pantry: raw, organic, unpasteurized apple cider vinegar.
Apple cider vinegar, or ACV, is an amazing concoction. It is made by crushing apples, collecting the juice and adding beneficial bacteria and yeast cultures to start the fermentation process. The resulting apple cider vinegar is chock-full of calcium, potassium, magnesium and enzymes.
ACV also has potent antibacterial, antiviral and antifungal properties, and has been used since ancient times as a “cure-all” for everything from digestive discomfort to preventing the flu. It is also a great staple in a detox plan, as it gently flushes toxins from the body while providing essential nutrition. For the skin, you’d be hard-pressed to find better.
Below, you’ll find a couple ways to take your apple cider vinegar internally to kickstart the health of your skin from inside, and also some ACV skin care basics. However, when you purchase your apple cider vinegar, make sure it is raw, organic and unpasteurized, as the refined stuff is no comparison to the real thing.
You can tell your ACV is good if you see a cobweb-like substance floating in the brown, murky liquid. This is called the “mother of vinegar” and it infuses the ACV with its benefits.
Cleanse skin from within
When taken internally, ACV flushes toxins from the body. This includes the skin, of course. Detoxifying with ACV can restore problem skin to a state of health if toxins have been responsible for breakouts and other skin problems. As ACV is also a potent anti-inflammatory tonic, it can help to clear acne and inflammatory skin conditions, including eczema and psoriasis, from within.
The basic elixir
The simplest way to drink your apple cider vinegar is to mix 2 teaspoons with 16 ounces of purified water. This mixture can be sipped throughout the day. Along with reducing inflammation and removing toxins, drinking this may help to fight cravings, lower LDL (“bad”) cholesterol levels and even reduce belly fat.
ACV chilled green tea
Brew a mug of your favorite organic green tea, adding a couple of peppermint or spearmint leaves if you wish. Allow cooling. Add 1 or 2 teaspoons of ACV to the chilled tea. Sweeten with raw, local honey if desired.
ACV skincare
When applied topically, ACV can help to balance the pH of your skin. It deeply cleanses pores and provides nutrients which repair the skin. It has been used traditionally to lessen the look of acne scars, wrinkles and age spots, soften the skin and invigorate the complexion.
Toner
Simply pour a bit of ACV on a cotton ball and apply to your face after cleansing. You can do this daily to keep your pores looking their best, and also dab on trouble spots should they arise.
Detoxifying “super syrup”
This concoction is a potent immunity booster, eases digestive discomfort, supports cardiovascular health and fights inflammation throughout the body. It can also bring that healthy glow back to your skin. Simply mix 2 cups of ACV, 2 cups of raw, local honey and 2 teaspoons of organic cinnamon. Keep in a jar in a cool, dry area.
Exfoliating scrub
In a small jar or container, combine 2 tablespoons of ACV and 2 tablespoons of raw honey. If you are combatting redness, add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice. Add enough coconut crystals to make a scrub. Apply to clean skin, gently scrubbing, and then leave on for 10 minutes before rinsing. The scrub will keep in the fridge for up to two weeks.
Face mask
Combine equal parts of ACV and Aztec Secret Indian Clay. Apply to your face, leave on for 15 minutes, then rinse with warm water.
With all of the uses for apple cider vinegar and the numerous ways it can keep your skin looking and feeling its best, there is no reason for this superfood not to be in your pantry.
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— Susan Patterson