Both white vinegar and apple cider vinegar can provide benefits for hair, but is one better than the other? There are some key differences between these two vinegars that are important to understand when deciding which to use on your hair.
What is White Vinegar?
White vinegar, sometimes also called distilled vinegar, is made through the fermentation of distilled alcohol. The acetic acid concentration in white vinegar is typically around 5-8%. It has a tart, pungent taste and smell.
White vinegar has been used as a natural cleaning agent for centuries. It has antibacterial and antifungal properties which make it useful for disinfecting surfaces in the home. White vinegar is also popularly used as a hair rinse to help remove residue and clarify hair.
What is Apple Cider Vinegar?
Apple cider vinegar is made through a two-step fermentation process. First, apples are crushed and combined with yeast to convert their sugar into alcohol. Then, bacteria is added to further ferment the alcohol into acetic acid. The acetic acid concentration in apple cider vinegar is typically around 5-6%.
Apple cider vinegar has a milder smell and taste than white vinegar. It also contains more nutrients and health-promoting compounds from the apples, like pectin and polyphenols. The “mother” which you can see floating in raw, unfiltered apple cider vinegar contains beneficial bacteria and enzymes.
Like white vinegar, apple cider vinegar is beneficial for cleaning, disinfecting, and promoting gut health. It has become very popular for use on hair and the scalp due to its suggested health benefits.
Acidity Levels
One of the biggest differences between white vinegar and apple cider vinegar is their level of acidity. White vinegar has a higher acetic acid content, around 5-8% versus 5-6% in apple cider vinegar. This means white vinegar has a lower pH and is more acidic.
The higher acidity of white vinegar gives it more potent antibacterial and clarifying properties. However, apple cider vinegar is still sufficiently acidic to provide cleansing benefits for hair.
Nutrient Profile
Since it is made from apple juice, apple cider vinegar contains some nutrients and polyphenols from apples that are not found in white vinegar. Analyses of apple cider vinegar have found it contains small amounts of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.
Two of the main active components in apple cider vinegar are acetic acid and malic acid. Acetic acid provides the antimicrobial effects, while malic acid is an alpha-hydroxy acid with exfoliating properties.
While apple cider vinegar has more nutrients than white vinegar, the amounts are quite small and unlikely to make a big difference when used topically on hair.
Smell
White vinegar has a very strong, pungent smell due to its higher acetic acid content. Many people find the smell quite overpowering. Apple cider vinegar has a much mellower scent.
If you do not want your hair to smell like vinegar after using it, apple cider vinegar may be the better choice. Be aware though that the smell of apple cider vinegar will still linger for a while after rinsing it out.
Hair Benefits of White Vinegar
Here are some of the main benefits of using white vinegar on hair:
- Removes buildup – The clarifying properties of white vinegar help remove product buildup, dirt, and oil from the hair and scalp. This can help unclog hair follicles.
- Balances pH – White vinegar creates an acidic environment that helps bring the scalp and hair pH to a mildly acidic state. This helps create unfavorable conditions for bacterial and fungal growth.
- Adds shine – White vinegar helps seal the hair cuticles down flat, which can enhance shine.
- Prevents dandruff – Its antimicrobial properties help fight fungus and prevent dandruff.
- Removes odors – The strong acidic smell of white vinegar helps eliminate odors from the hair.
- Closes cuticles – This helps reduce frizz and smooth the hair strand.
Hair Benefits of Apple Cider Vinegar
Here are some of the main benefits of using apple cider vinegar on hair:
- Gently cleanses – Apple cider vinegar removes buildup without over-stripping hair.
- Closes cuticles – which helps smooth frizz and add shine.
- Detangles – Apple cider vinegar helps separate tangled hair.
- Creates shine – Malic acid in apple cider vinegar exfoliates and polishes the hair.
- Prevents microbial growth – Its antibacterial properties help keep the scalp healthy.
- Balances pH like white vinegar.
- May stimulate growth – Some natural acids in apple cider vinegar could potentially help with circulation to hair follicles.
Is one better for different hair types?
When it comes to hair type, apple cider vinegar may be better for fine or damaged hair. The gentler acidity of apple cider vinegar helps cleanse without being too harsh on delicate strands. People with dry or damaged hair also often prefer apple cider vinegar since its vitamins help nourish the hair.
For oily hair or severe dandruff, the stronger acidity of white vinegar can be more beneficial to really dissolve oil and kill fungus. The intense clarifying effects of white vinegar helps remove buildup on oily hair.
Normally or thick hair can benefit from either type of vinegar. However, people with sensitive scalps may find white vinegar too harsh and irritating. Apple cider vinegar provides a more gentle clarifying option.
How to use them on your hair
Both white vinegar and apple cider vinegar should always be diluted with water before applying to hair. This helps prevent irritation. A dilution of 1 part vinegar to 3 parts water is typical.
To use, start by washing and conditioning your hair as normal. After rinsing out your conditioner, pour the vinegar solution over your hair. Let it sit for a few minutes, then rinse thoroughly with cool water.
Apple cider vinegar mixes well with other ingredients to make a nourishing hair mask. For example, you can combine it with coconut oil, avocado, honey, or eggs. Let the mask sit on your hair for 15-30 minutes before washing out.
Here are some simple recipes to try:
Basic Apple Cider Vinegar Hair Rinse
- 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
- 1 cup water
Clarifying White Vinegar Rinse
- 1/3 cup white vinegar
- 1 cup water
Apple Cider Vinegar and Honey Hair Mask
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or coconut oil
Mix together the ingredients and apply to damp hair. Leave on for 20 minutes before rinsing out thoroughly.
Risks and Considerations
While vinegar can provide benefits to hair, there are also some drawbacks and risks to consider:
- It smells – Vinegar has a very strong scent that lingers on hair.
- Can be drying – Frequent use can dry out the hair and strip color.
- Scalp irritation – The acidity can cause stinging for those with sensitive skin.
- Skin burns – Vinegar should be heavily diluted and kept away from eyes.
To reduce these risks:
- Always dilute vinegar with water before applying.
- Rinse thoroughly after use.
- Avoid getting vinegar on the scalp if you have sensitive skin.
- Do not use full-strength vinegar.
- Rinse eyes immediately if contact occurs.
The Bottom Line
Both white vinegar and apple cider vinegar can benefit hair in different ways. White vinegar is better for removing oil, clarifying, and fighting dandruff. Apple cider vinegar is gentler for fine or damaged hair and adds more shine.
For most hair types, apple cider vinegar may be the best option since it is less harsh. But if you have very oily hair or severe dandruff, the stronger acidity of white vinegar can have added benefits.
No matter which one you choose, always dilute the vinegar with water first and do not over-do it. Vinegar rinses should be used sparingly as needed to avoid drying out your hair.
While vinegar can help enhance your hair’s health and appearance, consult your dermatologist if you have concerns about very oily, dry, or damaged hair.