Vinegar: For beautiful hair and skin

WITH more of a push towards the organic, in recent times more people have been looking into their cupboards instead of the pharmacy shelves for health and beauty aids. And as such, interest in products like vinegar has heightened. The liquid, usually reserved for unclogging drains, removing tough stains, cleaning stainless steel and removing mildew is actually superb for improving the lustre and shine of your hair and soothing the skin.

According to skin specialist Dr Neil Persadsingh, once diluted, the product, particularly apple cider vinegar, can be used for a number of purposes related to the skin and hair. These include:

1. As deodorant

Dr Persadsingh said people who have issues with body odour can fill a rum bottle with water, add a teaspoon of vinegar and use it to wash their armpits after they have finished bathing to help with their body odour.

2. Combat against smelly toes

“If you have sweaty feet and smelly toes, soak them in diluted vinegar to help the problem,” Dr Persadsingh said.

3. Dandruff control

The skin specialist explained that the vinegar can be diluted and used to treat dandruff and it helps to prevent fungal growth on the scalp and skin. However, he cautioned against getting it in the eyes, stating that it burns like pepper.

4. Removes build-up

Dr Persadsingh said the acetic acid in vinegar helps to remove the build-up from oil and grease in the hair, which will leave it shiny and full of life and lustre. However, he said to always ensure it is diluted.

5. Insect bites and bruises

“It is a good anti-inflammatory agent that is good for insect bites and bee stings. The acid neutralises the itch and soothes the skin,” he said.