• Home
  • About
  • Contact
  • Privacy Policy
  • Natural Home
  • Recipes
  • Gardening
  • Essential Oils
  • Beauty
↑

All Natural Ideas

Natural Ideas, Products and Recipes for a Healthier Life

  • Natural Home
  • Recipes
  • Gardening
  • Essential Oils
  • Beauty
You are here: Home / Natural Remedies / Apple Cider Vinegar for Acne Skin Breakouts

Apple Cider Vinegar for Acne Skin Breakouts

This post may contain affiliate links. See our Full Disclosure

July 24, 2019 By Rachel Garduce

Using apple cider vinegar for acne skin breakouts can be an effective treatment. If you’re looking for an all-natural solution to pimples, give this remedy a try.

apple cider vinegar acne treatment

Table of contents

  1. Apple Cider Vinegar As A Home Remedy For Acne
    1. How do skin breakouts occur?
      1. Why Does Apple Cider Vinegar Help Acne?
        1. How Long Will It Take To See Apple Cider Vinegar Acne Results?
          1. Apple Cider Vinegar For Cystic Acne
            1. Using Apple Cider Vinegar For Skin Whitening
              1. How To Use Apple Cider Vinegar For Pimples Overnight

                Apple Cider Vinegar As A Home Remedy For Acne

                Want an easy acne fighting home remedy for clearer skin? It’s possible “mother” can help. But we aren’t talking about your actual mom.

                “Mother” refers to the bits and pieces of raw enzymes and gut-friendly bacteria in raw apple cider vinegar. This unfiltered material may promote healing, including fighting skin breakouts.

                Apple cider vinegar (also known as ACV) has been used by countless generations for many home remedies. As more and more people are looking for all-natural skin care solutions, it’s no wonder using an apple cider vinegar acne treatment has become so popular.

                There’s even been a study on the medicinal uses of vinegar. So check that out if you’re curious about how it can help treat other ailments.

                But if you’re interested in using apple cider vinegar as an acne treatment keep reading. Here are a few bullet points to consider:

                • The quality of apple cider vinegar is extremely important
                • Apple cider vinegar can help your skin both on the inside and outside of your body
                • Using apple cider vinegar as an acne treatment also takes thick skin (pun intended and explained below)

                Let’s address the first bullet point….

                You can’t just use any type of apple cider vinegar for acne. The type that comes in a big plastic bottle won’t help your acne. It also can’t be pasteurized or heat-processed. That’s because pasteurization and heat-processing kills the “mother.”

                The only apple cider vinegar effective for acne is raw, unheated, unfiltered, non-GMO and organic. Does finding an apple cider vinegar that has all these qualities sounds overwhelming? Don’t worry; it’s easy to find a reputable brand online.

                Braggs bottle and bowl for skin breakouts

                How do skin breakouts occur?

                Chronic acne is caused in part by having an imbalance in gut microbiome. Your microbiome is the trillions of microscopic living organisms in your gut.

                It might sound disgusting to think about all the tiny creatures living in your digestive tract. But they play a huge part in your immunity, and in your skin’s appearance.

                When you don’t have enough friendly bacteria in your gut, your skin can suffer. If the eyes are a window into the soul, the skin’s appearance is a window into gut health. That’s because gut health, and by extension, your skin’s health can be compromised by a few factors….

                Diet and nutrition, of course, play big roles when it comes to skin breakouts. Almost everybody these days is conscious of this fact. But for some people, ditching dairy, alcohol, gluten and even sugar can’t seem to stop acne flare-ups.

                It’s wise to eliminate inflammation-causing foods. If there’s a big imbalance in the gut bacteria, eating healthier may not always be the acne fix you’re hoping for.

                Without adequate bacteria in the gut, stomach acid may be reduced. And this acid is needed to break down food into its nutrient components.

                If you’ve travelled overseas, particularly to hot, humid, tropical locations, you may have been exposed to unfriendly bacteria. This commonly occurs if you were drinking unclean water or ate produce that was washed with impure water.

                This unfriendly bacteria can reproduce and cause a bad ratio of friendly to unfriendly bacteria in the gut.

                Hormonal imbalances can also cause skin problems. Moving to all organic food in your diet and using non-toxic natural home products may not be enough. That’s because previous exposure to xenoestrogens may have already messed up your hormone levels.

                Why Does Apple Cider Vinegar Help Acne?

                Let’s get back to talking about the “mother” now and how it can help you improve your skin. Some things that can lead to acne are:

                • Years of indulging in soda and other high sugar foods
                • Exposure to certain pathogens disrupting gut bacteria
                • Long term exposure to chemicals leading to estrogen dominance
                • Sensitivity to dairy

                Regardless of why you have acne, the “mother” in apple cider vinegar can help clear acne. It also reduces inflammation and kills bacteria that can cause skin breakouts.

                And here’s what the second bullet point from above means. Gut balance can be restored if you use an apple cider vinegar acne drink.

                The culture in the vinegar, the “mother”, can help heal your skin from the inside. And when applied as a toner and/or mask, apple cider vinegar is treating your skin externally (more on this in just a little bit).

                But drinking vinegar is not for the faint of heart. You need “thick skin”, because drinking apple cider vinegar for acne may not easy to swallow.

                Even diluting a tablespoon of it with water is harsh. But if you’re desperate to rid yourself of acne and want an all-natural solution, you just have to stomach it.

                However, there is a solution, but it’s kind of pricey. Miracle Fruit berries can make sour and acidic foods like vinegar taste sweet. But these African berries are pretty expensive to use on a daily basis.

                bowl of apple cider vinegar

                How Long Will It Take To See Apple Cider Vinegar Acne Results?

                You’re not going to have blemish-free skin overnight. And, if you’re going to take an apple cider vinegar acne treatment while simultaneously doing a detox, your acne may temporarily get worse.

                When your body is releasing toxins, either through hot yoga or juice cleanses or detox supplements, at least some of the toxins seep out of the body through skin. This is one cause of rashes and pimples.

                Apple Cider Vinegar For Cystic Acne

                As mentioned, low-stomach acid and an abundance of bad bacteria in the gut can lead to acne. We’re not just talking about a pimple here or there, though. Cystic acne is a cluster of breakouts and it’s usually a chronic condition.

                The first step to using ACV for acne is to drink it. As mentioned, it tastes unpleasant. So only start with a half or one tablespoon of it and stir it in a full cup of water. Or, spend the money to swallow it with miracle fruit.

                For cystic acne, you can also put an apple cider vinegar acne treatment on your face. But don’t just pour the vinegar in your hands and apply it to your face.

                As a toner, you can dilute 1-2 tablespoons of ACV with purified or distilled water. How much water? The more sensitive your skin, the more water you’ll need. Therefore, you can start by doing 1-2 tablespoons of ACV in 6 oz. of water.

                The mother in ACV is what you see floating at the bottom of the glass bottle. That’s why you should always shake before using this raw vinegar. This unfiltered component of raw apple cider vinegar treats acne by:

                • balancing the skin’s pH
                • getting rid of excess oil and residue 
                • fighting bacteria

                Using Apple Cider Vinegar For Skin Whitening

                Once you get your acne under control. You may want to use the vinegar for other skin issues.

                Some people use apple cider vinegar for face and skin whitening. For this purpose, it’s mixed with baking soda and put on the skin as a facial mask.

                One way you can use ACV as a mask is to mix about 3 tablespoons in a small bowl with a couple tablespoons of baking soda. Apply this mixture to the skin just as you would any other mask after you wash your face.

                Allow the mixture to sit for at least 10-15 minutes or longer. Dip a washcloth in warm water then rub on gently to remove the mask. You’ll also need to repeatedly rinsing the cloth in the water to fully remove the mask. Use a dry towel to pat on skin to dry.

                How To Use Apple Cider Vinegar For Pimples Overnight

                Remember, apple cider vinegar acne treatment may not work immediately. But you can improve results by using it overnight.

                A simple way to use apple cider vinegar for pimples is to apply the vinegar directly on the blemish using a about one part vinegar to three parts water. Dip a cotton ball in the diluted vinegar and apply it directly to the blemish for a minimum of 10 minutes, then leave on overnight.

                Reapply several times during the day to continue drying out the pimple. And be sure to use a moisturizer after the treatment to prevent the skin from becoming overly dry.

                The oil glands will overproduce sebum oil production if skin gets too dry. This excess oil will result in oily skin and clog your pores worsening acne.

                ACV

                Hopefully, this article has answered any questions you may have about using an apple cider vinegar acne treatment. And if you do give it a try, be sure to use this brand for skin breakouts. That’s because it’s an excellent raw, unfiltered, unpasteurized vinegar for your skin care routine.

                For questions on any of the information provided, be sure to leave a comment on this post. And if you’re looking for other ways to use apple cider vinegar? Check out:

                Is Using Apple Cider Vinegar Toner for Skin Effective?

                First Published: January 12, 2017…
                Last Updated: July 24, 2019

                Related Posts

                Babassu oil benefits
                The Amazing Babassu Oil Benefits for Skin and Hair
                Got oily skin? Some people suggest ditching concealer and instead using an apple cider vinegar toner for skin problems, including acne. But is it safe and effective? How do you use it? And is there even proof it works? 
                Is Using Apple Cider Vinegar Toner for Skin Effective?
                If you want better skin, are you willing to prick your face with dozens of needles? Though it sounds medieval, treating acne, wrinkles and stretch marks by using the best derma roller is relatively painless. Plus, there’s research and lots of reviews claiming it works….
                Best Derma Roller: Which one causes the least pain?

                Best natural face wash for acne and oily skin.
                Homemade Face Wash for Acne and Oily Skin
                Witch hazel uses for face and acne
                What are the Witch Hazel Uses for Face?
                How to get rid of blackheads on nose
                How to Get Rid of Blackheads on Nose

                MEDICAL DISCLAIMER:

                All content on this website is for general informational purposes only. It is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment.

                None of the information contained in this website should be used to initiate use of dietary supplements, vitamins, herbal and nutritional products or homeopathic medicine, and other described products prior to consulting first with a physician or healthcare provider. The owner of this site and it's writers disclaim any liability based on information provided in this website.

                Filed Under: Natural Beauty, Natural Remedies, Natural Skin Care Tagged With: acne

                About Rachel Garduce

                Rachel is the contributing content curator for All Natural Ideas. She is dedicated to a life of natural living and holistic practices. Working as a clinical therapist, she enjoys helping others and holding a space for a like minded community.

                Signup for news and special offers!

                Yes, Email me Tips, Best Practices and All Natural Products. For more details, review our Privacy Policy.

                Thank you!

                You have successfully joined our subscriber list.

                Trending Articles

                What's the Best Xanthan Gum Substitute for Recipes?
                Carbs in Almond Flour Vs Coconut Flour
                Natural Breast Lift & Supplements for Sagging Breasts
                Low Carb Yogurt On Keto: What Kind Is Best?
                Drinking Apple Cider Vinegar for Acne
                How to Use Blackstrap Molasses for Hair

                Essential Oils

                Essential Oil Burners Electric

                Essential Oil Burner vs Diffuser for Aromatherapy

                coconut essential oil

                Is There a Coconut Essential Oil?

                energizing essential oils

                Energizing Essential Oils and Blends for Aromatherapy

                More Essential Oils

                Nutrition

                Easy Keto Chocolate Mug Cake

                Low Carb Holiday Tips: Sticking to Your Diet

                Low Carb Vegetables For a Keto Diet

                More Nutrition

                Remedies

                If you're into natural health, no doubt you're aware of elderberry syrup. It's one of the most popular natural prevention remedies and cures for colds and the flu. But have you heard of elderflower tea? Can preventing colds and flu be as simple as sipping a cuppa?

                Are Elderflower Tea Benefits as good as Elderberry Syrup?

                What is a poultice?

                What Is A Poultice And How Do You Make One?

                Low carb easy chicken soup recipe for colds

                Best Chicken Soup Recipe for Colds and Flu

                More Remedies

                Recipes

                Easy Keto Chocolate Mug Cake

                slow cooker chicken adobo

                Filipino Chicken Adobo Slow Cooker Recipe

                Low carb easy chicken soup recipe for colds

                Best Chicken Soup Recipe for Colds and Flu

                More Recipes

                Health

                More Health

                Green Living

                More Green Living

                House & Home

                Essential Oil Burners Electric

                Essential Oil Burner vs Diffuser for Aromatherapy

                baking soda bath

                Benefits of a Baking Soda Bath Beyond Detox

                DIY bath crayons

                DIY Bath Crayons for Bathtub Fun

                More House & Home

                Beauty

                sugar wax natural hair removal

                How to Use Sugar Wax for Natural Hair Removal

                natural nails

                Tips for Natural Nails that are Pretty and Healthy

                oatmeal bath towel and soap

                Oatmeal Bath for Skin Irritations and More

                More Beauty

                Signup for news and special offers!

                Yes, Email me Tips, Best Practices and All Natural Products. For more details, review our Privacy Policy.

                Thank you!

                You have successfully joined our subscriber list.

                Trending Topics

                • Keratosis Pilaris

                • Sumac Tea

                • Essential Oils

                • Marula Oil for Hair

                • Stillman Diet

                Recent Articles

                Easy Keto Cauliflower Fried Rice

                The Best Essential Oils for Pain

                Keto Taco Bowls with Avocado Salsa

                Gluten Free Chocolate Chip Cookies

                Healthy Recipes

                Bulletproof Coffee Recipe (Keto Coffee)

                Bacon Wrapped Brussels Sprouts with Mustard Sauce

                Sumac Tea Health Benefits and How To Make It

                Shirataki Noodles Recipes For A Keto Diet

                Copyright ©2025, All Natural Ideas. All Rights Reserved.
                Design by Pixel Me Designs