When I can, I love using all-natural ingredients and remedies over chemical-filled products from the drugstore.  Pinterest is a treasure trove of DIY’s and product recommendations.  I’ve been using apple cider vinegar as a toner for months now, but I’ve always been nervous to try it on my hair.  My hair is thick, long, color-treated, and easily tangled, so I handle it with the gentlest of kid gloves.  But since I was in California last week, my hair has been through the wringer.  Between the sun, swimming in the ocean and pool, and shampooing more than usual, I had buildup and just felt blah.

I colored my hair recently, too recently to do it again; it would only further weaken my hair.  So after doing a little research, and double-checking that ACV is safe for colored hair, I decided to go for it.

What You’ll Need:

Container

Cool water

Unfiltered apple cider vinegar

Instructions:

1.  Mix 2-3 tablespoons of ACV with 2 cups of water.

2.  After shampooing and rinsing, gently squeeze the excess water out of your hair.

3.  Pour the entire contents of your container on your head!

4.  Keep yourself busy for a few minutes, i.e. shave your legs, cleanse your face.

5.  Thoroughly rinse your hair and get out of the shower.  Don’t worry, the scent of ACV fades immediately after you rinse it out!

The Verdict:

I’m very impressed by how quick and easy this DIY hair treatment was; it took as little time as conditioner.  The smell takes some getting used to, but since it fades once you rinse it out, I think it’s worth it.  My hair was more tangled than usual, but not brushing it before I showered might also be a contributing factor.

This morning, my hair was incredibly soft, volumized, and shiny.  My naturally wavy hair had definition instead of being weighed down or limp, and I’m pretty sure I won’t have to wash for at least two more days!  In short, I’m going to make this a weekly thing.

XX, Gabrielle

ps: check out Byrdie’s article for more ways to use ACV