Why use apple cider vinegar as a hair rinse?

Rinsing your hair with apple cider vinegar (often abbreviated ACV) is a natural method that has been used for generations – and is now gaining popularity again. Not because it’s trendy, but because it works. It’s simple, effective, and fits into a more gentle and honest approach to hair care.

Hard water – an invisible challenge

In large parts of Denmark, the water is hard, which means it contains a lot of lime (calcium and magnesium). When you wash your hair with hard water, it can cause a number of problems:

Of course – here is a friendly, accessible and explanatory version of each point:

Shampoo and soap bars foam less well

When you use hard water, the minerals (like lime and magnesium) react with the soap and prevent it from lathering properly. The lather usually helps distribute the product evenly – so when it doesn’t lather, it can feel like you’re not getting your hair completely clean, even though you’re using plenty of product.

⚪️ A greasy, white film forms on the hair

The minerals found in hard water bind to the soap and form something called limescale . It forms a whitish, waxy film on the hair and scalp that is difficult to rinse out. The result? Hair can feel dirty, even when freshly washed.

Products are not rinsed properly

The lime soap and the mineral residue that remains in the hair are difficult to rinse away. This means that residues of both soap and lime can remain in the hair – and this can make the hair appear greasy, sticky or heavy, even right after washing.

Hair becomes dull, stiff and feels heavy

When limescale and residue build up in your hair, it becomes less flexible and lacks shine. Instead of being soft and vibrant, it can feel stiff, “crunchy” or heavy – especially in the lengths. It can also become more difficult to detangle and style.

The scalp may react with itching, dandruff or irritation

The limescale that settles on the scalp can disrupt the skin's natural balance. This can cause dryness, itching, dandruff or an irritated feeling. Some people even experience that the scalp feels tight or "dirty" shortly after washing.

How does apple cider vinegar help?

Apple cider vinegar is mildly acidic (pH 3–4), which is precisely what makes it effective after washing your hair:

• Neutralizes limescale and soap residue

• Closes the hair cuticle , making the hair smoother and shinier

• Soothes the scalp and supports the skin's natural pH

• Makes hair easier to detangle

• Promotes a healthy, balanced scalp – without silicone or chemicals

In practice, vinegar rinses act as a natural conditioner – especially important if you use natural bars and live in an area with hard water.

Why apple cider vinegar rather than regular household vinegar?

Apple cider vinegar (ACV) is made from fermented apple juice and contains natural acids, vitamins, and enzymes that are beneficial for both hair and scalp.

🔸 Milder pH than regular clear vinegar (typically 5% acetic acid), making it gentler on the skin.
🔸 Contains natural nutrients such as lactic acid, malic acid and small amounts of B vitamins that can have a nourishing effect.
🔸 Reduces the risk of dryness and irritation, especially with regular use.
🔸 More skin-friendly scent – ACV has a more rounded, fruity vinegar scent that quickly disappears.

👉 Regular clear vinegar can be used in emergencies, but it is more pungent and does not contain the same nourishing properties as apple cider vinegar. For hair and skin, I always recommend ACV.

How to use apple cider vinegar rinse

It's easy to make – just mix apple cider vinegar and water. Here are some practical guidelines:

✨ Regular rinsing (in a cup or bottle)

1 part apple cider vinegar to 10–20 parts water

Hair type	Mixture	Example
Curly, dry, sensitive	1:20 (mild)	1 tsp vinegar + 2.5 dl water
Normal/oily hair	1:10 (default)	1 tablespoon vinegar + 2.5 dl water
Fine hair	1:20–1:25	½ tsp vinegar + 2.5 dl water
Gray hair	1:10–1:15	1 tbsp vinegar + 2 dl water

How to do it:

1. Use the rinse as the last step after washing your hair.

2. Pour the mixture over wet hair – especially the scalp and lengths.

3. Leave it on for 1–2 minutes.

4. Rinse lightly – or leave it on if you like the effect.

Use as a spray – easy and reusable

ACV sake can also be put in a spray bottle – making it easy to use and perfect for travel.

Example: Spray bottle mixture

Bottle size	Mild (1:20)	Standard (1:10)	Strong (1:5)
100 ml	5 ml vinegar + 95 ml water	10 ml vinegar + 90 ml water	20 ml vinegar + 80 ml water
200 ml	10 ml vinegar + 190 ml water	20 ml vinegar + 180 ml water	40 ml vinegar + 160 ml water

💡 Use boiled, lukewarm or distilled water. Shake the bottle before use.

Use as a spray:

• Spray on damp hair after washing.

• Massage lightly into scalp and lengths.

• Let it sit for 1–2 minutes

• Rinse lightly – or leave it on

Who benefits from ACV guilt?

ACV fits into many hair care routines – especially if you want fewer products and more natural solutions.

Suitable for:

• Curly hair (Curly Girl and the low-poo method)

• Dry or damaged hair

• Gray hair – helps remove yellowish tones

• Fine hair – in mild dilution

• Sensitive scalp

• Switching from conventional shampoo to bar soap

• Short hair, long hair – and the whole family

Why choose apple cider vinegar over regular conditioner?

• 100% natural and biodegradable

• Without perfume, silicone and sulfates

• Mild, balancing and effective

• Cheap and available

• Works especially well in hard water

• Leaves hair soft, shiny and easier to manage

Brief summary

Apple cider vinegar rinses aren't a miracle cure – but they're a simple, old-fashioned trick that works.
It helps cleanse, balance and soothe both hair and scalp.
And it fits perfectly into a more natural, honest and simple hair care.