Apple Cider Vinegar for Acne: A New Weapon for Skin?
Curious about apple cider vinegar acne remedies? Get the facts, risks, and clear skin tips from trusted sources before you try this natural acne remedy.
Written by Dr. J T Hema Pratima
Reviewed by Dr. Dhankecha Mayank Dineshbhai MBBS
Last updated on 11th Dec, 2025
Introduction
If you’ve ever searched for a natural acne remedy, you’ve likely seen people swear by apple cider vinegar (ACV). It’s easy to find, inexpensive, and often marketed as a quick fix for breakouts. But what does science say about apple cider vinegar acne treatments, and is it safe for your skin? In this guide, we’ll unpack what we know, what we don’t, and practical, dermatologist-approved, clear skin tips you can trust.
What Is Apple Cider Vinegar?
Apple cider vinegar is a fermented vinegar made from crushed apples, yeast, and bacteria. It contains acetic acid and small amounts of other acids, such as malic and lactic acid. On the internet, you’ll see claims that these acids kill acne-causing bacteria and unclog pores. While ACV does have antibacterial properties in laboratory settings, that doesn’t automatically mean it’s an effective or safe acne treatment on real skin.
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Can Apple Cider Vinegar Help Acne? What the Evidence Shows
Short answer: There’s no strong clinical evidence that apple cider vinegar clears acne. Here’s why that matters.
1. What we know from labs: Vinegars can inhibit the growth of some bacteria and yeast in petri dishes. This is where many ACV claims begin.
2. What we lack in people: No high-quality clinical trials have proven that applying ACV to the face treats acne effectively or safely.
3. What dermatology guidelines say: Major medical sources emphasise proven treatments like benzoyl peroxide, salicylic acid, retinoids (such as adapalene), and, in some cases, prescription therapies. Home acids and DIY toners can irritate skin and sometimes make acne worse.
Why It Might Not Be a Cure-All
Acne is complex. It involves excess oil, clogged pores, inflammation, and skin bacteria. A single “one-size-fits-all” solution rarely tackles all of these. Harsh or highly acidic products may:
1. Disrupts the skin barrier, leading to redness and irritation
2. Trigger more inflammation, which can worsen acne
3. Increase the risk of post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (dark marks), especially in deeper skin tones
How to Use Apple Cider Vinegar for Acne?
If you’re considering ACV as a natural acne remedy, proceed cautiously. Dermatology organisations caution against applying undiluted vinegar to the skin because it can cause irritation or even chemical burns.
Safer-use Tips
1. Do a patch test: Try a very small amount on an area like the inner forearm once daily for 2–3 days. Stop if you notice burning, redness, or rash.
2. Never use undiluted vinegar on skin: Using straight vinegar increases the risk of irritation and burns.
3. Avoid broken or sensitive skin: Don’t apply to open pimples, raw or peeling areas, or around the eyes and lips.
4. Go slow: If your skin tolerates it, limit use to no more than a few times per week and monitor closely for irritation.
5. Moisturise and protect: Use a gentle, fragrance-free moisturiser and daily sunscreen. Over-exfoliation and sun exposure can aggravate acne and discolouration.
6. Stop if it stings or peels: Discomfort is a sign to discontinue and switch to evidence-based options.
Important note: There is no medically established “best” dilution or routine for ACV on acne. If you want personalised guidance, consult a board-certified dermatologist.
Should You Drink Apple Cider Vinegar for Acne?
There’s no reliable evidence that drinking ACV clears acne. Oral ACV is often promoted for weight loss or blood sugar control, but even those benefits are modest and not guaranteed. More importantly, drinking ACV can have side effects and interactions:
Tooth enamel erosion and throat irritation/burns, especially if undiluted or sipped frequently
Stomach upset and delayed gastric emptying
Low potassium levels in some cases
Potential interactions with medications such as insulin and certain diuretics
If you have diabetes, kidney disease, digestive issues, low potassium, or take medications that affect potassium or blood sugar, talk with your clinician before using ACV.
Proven Clear Skin Tips
Looking for clear skin tips with better evidence behind them? These are supported by dermatology and major medical organisations:
Daily routine
1. Cleanse twice a day with a mild, non-comedogenic cleanser.
2. Use one proven active at a time to minimise irritation:
3. Benzoyl peroxide (2.5–5%) targets acne-causing bacteria and inflammation.
4. Salicylic acid (0.5–2%) helps unclog pores.
5. Adapalene (0.1% retinoid) keeps pores clear and reduces inflammation.
6. Moisturise: Choose a non-comedogenic, fragrance-free moisturiser to protect the skin barrier.
7. Sun protection: Broad-spectrum SPF 30+ daily. Many acne marks darken with sun exposure.
Lifestyle and habits
1. Don’t pick or pop: This increases inflammation, scarring, and dark marks.
2. Check your products: Choose “non-comedogenic” makeup, sunscreen, and hair products.
3. Consider diet tweaks: Some evidence suggests a low-glycemic eating pattern may help some people with acne. Dairy (especially skim) may trigger breakouts in a subset of people. Changes should be moderate and guided by your clinician or dietitian if you’re unsure.
4. Be consistent: Acne treatments often need 6–8 weeks to show results.
When to See a Dermatologist?
Seek a dermatologist's advice when:
1. You have moderate to severe acne, painful cysts, or scarring
2. OTC products haven’t helped after 8–12 weeks
3. You’re getting frequent dark marks or discolouration after breakouts
4. You’re unsure how to layer treatments without irritation
A dermatologist can tailor treatment with prescription options (topical retinoids, antibiotics, azelaic acid, hormonal therapy, or isotretinoin when appropriate).
Who Should Avoid Apple Cider Vinegar on Skin?
Avoid apple cider vinegar when:
1. People with very sensitive skin, eczema, or a compromised skin barrier
2. Anyone with open wounds, raw or peeling areas, or recent procedures (peels, microneedling)
3. Children’s skin is more delicate; avoid DIY acids
4. Individuals prone to keloids or dark marks should be extra cautious with any potentially irritating product
Possible Side Effects and Risks
Possible side effects and risks include:
Topical use
• Burning, stinging, redness, peeling
• Chemical burns if used undiluted or left on too long
• Worsening of acne due to irritation
• Darkening of spots after inflammation (post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation), especially in darker skin tones
Oral Use
The oral uses include:
• Dental erosion and throat irritation or burns, particularly with undiluted ACV
• Nausea, indigestion, and delayed stomach emptying
• Low potassium (hypokalemia) in some reports
• Drug interactions (for example, insulin and certain diuretics); consult your clinician
Bottom Line
Apple cider vinegar acne routines are popular, but clinical proof is lacking. ACV can irritate skin and has known risks, especially when used undiluted or consumed without care. If you’re eager to try a natural acne remedy, prioritise skin-safe habits and proven treatments first, and talk with a dermatologist for personalised advice. For most people, sticking to evidence-based, clear skin tips will be more effective and safer in the long run.
Consult a Top Nutritionist for Personalised Advice
Consult a Top Nutritionist for Personalised Advice
Dr. Ramalinga Reddy
General Physician
5 Years • MBBS MD General medicine
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PRESTIGE SHANTHINIKETAN - SOCIETY CLINIC, Bengaluru
Dr. Sasikamalam
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Mrs Sneha P V
Nutritionist
10 Years • Master of science in Food and Nutrition
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Dt. Prabhavathy
Clinical Nutritionist
8 Years • Msc Human Nutrition & Nutraceuticals
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Ms. Bhavana Shetty
Dietician
7 Years • DDHN & Masters in Clinical Nutrition & Dietetics
Bangalore
Apollo Sugar Clinic, Seetha circle bangalore, Bangalore
Consult a Top Nutritionist for Personalised Advice
Dr. Ramalinga Reddy
General Physician
5 Years • MBBS MD General medicine
Bengaluru
PRESTIGE SHANTHINIKETAN - SOCIETY CLINIC, Bengaluru
Dr. Sasikamalam
General Practitioner
1 Years • MBBS
COIMBATORE
Apollo Sugar Clinic Coimbatore, COIMBATORE
Mrs Sneha P V
Nutritionist
10 Years • Master of science in Food and Nutrition
Bengaluru
Apollo Clinic, Sarjapur Road, Bengaluru
Dt. Prabhavathy
Clinical Nutritionist
8 Years • Msc Human Nutrition & Nutraceuticals
Madurai
Apollo Sugar Clinics, Madurai, Madurai
Ms. Bhavana Shetty
Dietician
7 Years • DDHN & Masters in Clinical Nutrition & Dietetics
Bangalore
Apollo Sugar Clinic, Seetha circle bangalore, Bangalore
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Frequently Asked Questions
1) Does apple cider vinegar treat acne?
There’s no strong clinical evidence that ACV clears acne. It may have antibacterial effects in lab studies, but that doesn’t translate to proven, safe results on skin.
2) Is it safe to put apple cider vinegar on my face?
Undiluted vinegar can irritate or burn skin. If you still choose to try ACV, patch test first, avoid broken skin, and discontinue at any sign of irritation. There is no standard, proven dilution for acne.
3) Can drinking ACV clear my skin?
There’s no reliable evidence that drinking ACV treats acne. Oral ACV can erode tooth enamel, irritate the throat, and interact with some medications. Talk with your healthcare provider before using it regularly.
4) Can ACV fade acne scars or dark spots?
ACV is not a proven treatment for scars or hyperpigmentation and may worsen discolouration if it irritates your skin. Consider evidence-based options like retinoids, azelaic acid, or professional treatments guided by a dermatologist.
5) What are better alternatives to ACV for breakouts?
Over-the-counter options with good evidence include benzoyl peroxide, salicylic acid, and adapalene. Combine these with gentle cleansing, non-comedogenic products, and daily SPF. See a dermatologist if OTC care isn’t enough.