Apple Cider Vinegar for Eczema

Eczema is one of those conditions that makes life itchy, dry, and sometimes downright annoying. You’ve probably tried creams, moisturizers, and maybe even weird home remedies your aunt swears by. One remedy that keeps popping up online is apple cider vinegar (ACV). Some people say ACV can soothe the skin, prevent infection, and even help eczema heal. Others warn it can burn your skin if you’re not careful. So what’s the truth about apple cider vinegar for itchy skin rash? Let’s break it down.

Understanding Eczema

Eczema is more than dry, itchy skin. It is a condition that weakens the skin barrier and makes it more sensitive to irritants. The triggers, symptoms, and severity can vary widely from person to person. Understanding what type of eczema you have can help you manage it better.

• Atopic dermatitis usually affects the hands, arms, or face and makes skin dry, red, and itchy.
• Contact dermatitis happens when the skin reacts to something it touches, causing redness, swelling, or irritation.
• Common triggers include stress, allergens, harsh soaps, dry environments, and genetics.

Eczema makes the skin barrier weak, meaning it loses moisture and becomes more prone to infection.

Can Apple Cider Vinegar Help?

Apple cider vinegar has been used traditionally to treat skin issues, including eczema. It may offer some relief by balancing the skin’s acidity, reducing inflammation, and protecting against infection. However, scientific evidence is still limited.

1. Balancing Skin pH

The skin is naturally acidic, which helps protect it from bacteria. Studies show that alkaline soaps and cleansers can irritate eczema-prone skin. Apple cider vinegar is acidic, and this might help restore the skin’s natural pH. Study suggests that apple cider vinegar (a mild acid) might temporarily change your body’s pH level. It also has antimicrobial effects, meaning it can kill or slow the growth of germs, so in some cases it could be used as an alternative to soap.

2. Reducing Inflammation and Infection

Laboratory studies suggest ACV might have mild antibacterial and anti-inflammatory effects. ACV reduced inflammation, which could theoretically help eczema flare-ups. Dr. Waldman recommends diluting 1 tablespoon of apple cider vinegar in 1 cup of water. These results were mostly anecdotal but suggested that ACV baths might prevent inflammation in children with contact dermatitis.

3. Supporting the Skin Barrier

A study of vinegar-based cream found it helped strengthen the skin barrier, maintain pH levels, and prevent eczema lesions. In fact, up to 30% of eczema patients have mutations in the gene for filaggrin. Filaggrin helps structurally, binding keratin filaments together to strengthen and flatten skin cells.

How to Use ACV for Eczema

Before trying apple cider vinegar, it’s important to understand how to use it safely. The vinegar is highly acidic, and improper use can lead to irritation or even burns. Using small, diluted amounts is key.

1. Warm bath soak: Mix 2 cups of ACV into a warm bath, soak for 15 minutes, then rinse with cool water.
2. Wet wrap: Mix 1 tablespoon of ACV with 1 cup warm water. Dip clean cotton or gauze in the solution and wrap the affected skin for a few hours or overnight.
3. Hair and scalp application: Mix 1 tablespoon ACV with 1/4 cup sunflower oil. Apply to the scalp after showering to protect skin and improve moisture retention.

Always patch-test apple cider vinegar first, avoid open wounds or broken skin, and stop immediately if you feel burning or irritation.

Can You Use Apple Cider Vinegar on Itchy Skin?

Yes, you can try apple cider vinegar on itchy skin, but be careful. It might soothe inflammation and add moisture, but it can also sting or irritate. Always dilute it, test a small patch first, and check with your doctor before using.

Other Nutrition and Skin Support

Eczema is not just about what you put on your skin. Diet and hydration can play an important role in keeping your skin healthy and resilient. Certain nutrients may reduce inflammation and support the skin barrier.

1. Omega-3

Omega-3 fatty acids are found in salmon, flaxseed, and some nuts. They help reduce inflammation and itching. Research on fish oil supplements (omega-3) also showed that they can improve quality of life and reduce itching in eczema patients.

2. Probiotics

Probiotics help balance the bacteria in the gut, which supports the immune system. Some probiotic strains, such as Lactobacillus salivarius, L. acidophilus, and L. plantarum, have been shown to reduce symptoms in adults with atopic dermatitis, especially in those with moderate to severe cases.

3. Vitamin D

Vitamin D is important for a healthy immune system. Studies show that people with low vitamin D levels tend to have worse eczema symptoms. Taking vitamin D supplements may help reduce skin inflammation, keep skin hydrated, and strengthen the skin’s natural barrier.

Safety and Side Effects

Apple cider vinegar is highly acidic, and using it incorrectly can cause problems. Studies show that even diluted vinegar can irritate sensitive skin. A boy with several health issues got burns on his leg after his mother used apple cider vinegar to try to treat a leg infection.

Drinking apple cider vinegar is usually not recommended for eczema because it can damage teeth, irritate the throat or stomach, and interact with medications like insulin or diuretics. Always consult a doctor before using ACV, especially if you are taking medicines.

The Bottom Line

Apple cider vinegar may provide some relief for people with eczema, especially for apple cider vinegar for itchy skin rash, but it is not a cure. It may help balance skin acidity, reduce inflammation, and improve moisture, but it can also irritate the skin if used incorrectly.

If you choose to try ACV, dilute it, patch-test first, and combine it with proven treatments like moisturizers and gentle cleansers. ACV is best seen as a complementary approach rather than a replacement for medical treatments. Using it carefully may give you a little relief but be prepared for some trial and error.