The Herbalist’s Secret to Silky, Balanced Hair: Apple Cider Vinegar Rinse

As a skincare herbalist, I've been using apple cider vinegar on my hair for YEARS! One timeless yet often overlooked remedy for healthy hair is the humble apple cider vinegar (ACV) rinse—especially when paired with traditional handmilled soap-based shampoo bars like those we handcraft here at Brazen Bee Beauty.

Let’s dive into why ACV is a powerful tool for your hair routine, and how to use it properly for the best results.

Why Use an Apple Cider Vinegar Rinse?

Soap-based shampoo bars are an incredible, clean alternative to synthetic shampoos. They’re rich in nourishing oils and botanicals that cleanse without stripping your scalp of its natural oils. However, they are naturally alkaline, which can temporarily raise the pH of your hair and scalp. Human hair prefers a slightly acidic pH (around 4.5–5.5), and when this balance is disrupted, your cuticles can lift, making hair feel rough, look dull, or be more prone to tangling.

That’s where apple cider vinegar comes in. ACV helps:

• Restore the hair’s natural pH

• Smooth and seal the cuticle layer (great for making your hair color last longer)

• Add shine and softness

• Reduce scalp itchiness and flaking

• Prevent residue build-up

How to Make and Use Your ACV Rinse

Here’s a simple, effective way to incorporate an ACV rinse into your hair care routine—especially important after using any of our shampoo bars:

Apple Cider Vinegar Hair Rinse Recipe

• 10% or 1 part raw, unfiltered apple cider vinegar (with the "mother")

• 90% or 9 parts cold water

• Optional: Add ice cubes to keep the rinse extra cold during your shower

This creates a 10% ACV rinse, which is gentle and effective for balancing your hair’s pH without over-drying or irritating your scalp.

Instructions for Use

1. Shampoo as usual with one of our handcrafted soap bars. Rinse thoroughly.

2. Prepare your rinse ahead of your shower in a plastic squeeze bottle or mason jar. Fill with 90% cold water and 10% ACV. Add a few ice cubes to keep it ice-cold. This rinse staying cold is KEY!

3. At the very end of your shower, slowly pour or spray the ACV rinse over your scalp and down the length of your hair. Be sure to avoid getting it in your eyes—apple cider vinegar will sting!

4. Do not rinse it out. Let it stay in your hair and air dry naturally. The vinegar smell will fade quickly as your hair dries, leaving behind softness and shine.

Why Cold Matters

Using cold ACV and cold water closes the hair cuticle more effectively than warm water, locking in moisture and giving your hair that extra smooth, glossy finish. Will also lock in your hair color after dying, helping your color to last longer. This step also helps seal the scalp and calm any inflammation or irritation from environmental exposure or buildup.

Final Thoughts

An ACV rinse is one of the easiest and most effective ways to elevate your natural hair care. When paired with our rich, skin-loving soap bars used as shampoo, this final cold rinse will leave your hair soft, manageable, and pH-balanced—without any need for synthetic conditioners or silicones.

So next time you shower, don’t skip this vital step. Your hair (and scalp) will thank you.

Stay wild, stay balanced, and stay herbal.