Seborrheic dermatitis is a long-term skin condition that can cause itchy, flaky patches and greasy scales. While there are many treatment options to clear the affected skin and reduce symptoms of seborrheic dermatitis during flare-ups, some members of MySebDermTeam have also tried natural remedies such as apple cider vinegar (ACV) to help manage their symptoms.

What Is Apple Cider Vinegar?

Apple cider vinegar is a type of vinegar made from fermented apple juice. To make it, apples are crushed and mixed with yeast to turn their sugar into alcohol. Then, bacteria are added to turn the alcohol into acetic acid, which gives vinegar its sour taste and smell.

Apple cider vinegar contains probiotics, nutrients, and plant-based antioxidants that are believed to have potential health benefits. While primarily used for cooking, ACV has become increasingly popular in home remedies and skin care products like toners and face washes.

Apple Cider Vinegar and Seborrheic Dermatitis

Some believe apple cider vinegar could help with seborrheic dermatitis. Since apple cider vinegar is antifungal, antibacterial, antimicrobial, and pH-balancing, it could potentially help with the redness, flaking, and itching of seborrheic dermatitis.

ACV is also believed to relieve symptoms of conditions like eczema and psoriasis, which are similar to seborrheic dermatitis. However, it’s important to note that there’s no strong evidence that ACV helps with seborrheic dermatitis.

Research on Apple Cider Vinegar and Seborrheic Dermatitis

Unfortunately, there isn’t much direct research on using apple cider vinegar for seborrheic dermatitis. Most of what we know comes from general studies on apple cider vinegar’s effects on skin or from people’s personal experiences.

A 2018 study looked at apple cider vinegar’s antifungal properties. It found that ACV could inhibit the growth of Candida, a type of yeast that might be involved in seborrheic dermatitis. However, this study was done in a lab, not on human skin, so we can’t be sure how well it works in real-life situations.

Another study, from 2019, examined ACV’s effects on the skin barrier in people with eczema. The study found that apple cider vinegar didn’t improve the skin barrier and actually irritated the skin. Since seborrheic dermatitis is an inflammatory, long-term form of eczema that often affects the scalp, it’s important to be cautious when using ACV on sensitive skin.

Keep in mind that these studies have limitations. More direct research is needed to understand if and how apple cider vinegar might help with seborrheic dermatitis.

Using Apple Cider Vinegar for Seborrheic Dermatitis

Apple cider vinegar can be used in several ways to relieve seborrheic dermatitis. Regardless of how you use it, it’s important to properly dilute ACV to avoid irritating or damaging your skin and hair. Never apply undiluted ACV directly on your skin.

Always consult your doctor or dermatologist before trying any of the methods below. If your health care provider approves, start by testing a diluted amount of apple cider vinegar in a small patch to begin. Monitor the area for a few days to make sure you don’t have a bad reaction.

Topical Application

Some members of MySebDermTeam have found relief by applying diluted apple cider vinegar as a topical treatment directly on the scalp. One member shared, “Every time my scalp itched, I squirted a 50/50 solution of water and apple cider vinegar on my scalp. I have to say it helps my itchy scalp.”

Another member said, “When my scalp itches so bad I go crazy. I have found that washing my hair with cool water and a rinse of apple cider vinegar really helps.”

One member also mentioned patting a mixture of ACV and water-based toner onto their skin for symptom relief.

Wet Wrap Therapy

For relief of seborrheic dermatitis on areas like your scalp, it may be easier to use wet wrap therapy. The National Eczema Association recommends mixing 1 cup of warm water with 1 tablespoon of apple cider vinegar. Soak gauze or clean cotton strips in the mixture and apply them directly to the affected skin. Cover the damp dressings with a layer of dry, clean cotton fabric. You can leave the wet wrap on for about 3 hours, or overnight if it’s comfortable.

Apple Cider Vinegar Bath

The National Eczema Association also recommends using apple cider vinegar in baths. For a soothing apple cider vinegar bath, add 2 cups of ACV to a lukewarm tub of water. Soak in this mixture for 15 to 20 minutes, allowing the solution to reach the affected areas. After soaking, rinse your body with cool water to remove any leftover vinegar. Gently pat your skin dry, and apply a fragrance-free moisturizer to lock in hydration.

You may also find adding salt or colloidal oatmeal to your bath helps ease itching.

Over-the-Counter Shampoos

Several members of MySebDermTeam have found relief from itching and skin cell buildup by using over-the-counter or anti-dandruff shampoos that contain ACV. Many members prefer shampoos with ACV that also contain ingredients like tea tree oil, coconut oil, castor oil, aloe vera gel, or salicylic acid to boost the benefits. A few members suggested massaging these oils into the scalp after washing with shampoo.

One member shared that using a shampoo with apple cider vinegar ”makes my hair feel softer and helps with the itching.” Members also suggested rotating or switching shampoos regularly for better results so that the scalp doesn’t get used to the same product.

Precautions and Side Effects of ACV

While apple cider vinegar may help some people, it can also cause side effects, including dryness, skin irritation, or a burning sensation. Because ACV is very acidic, it could make seborrheic dermatitis worse for some people, especially if used too often or not diluted enough. Avoid applying ACV to areas with cracked skin or open wounds.

If you’re using medications for seborrheic dermatitis, talk with your doctor before trying apple cider vinegar or combining it with your current treatment.

Check With Your Doctor

Your doctor is your best source of information when it comes to treating your seborrheic dermatitis. Always ask them before trying a new remedy — even if it’s something you can buy at your local grocery store, like ACV. Your doctor can help you weigh the potential benefits and risks based on your situation.

Remember, managing seborrheic dermatitis often requires a combination of treatments and lifestyle changes. What works for one person might not work for another. Some people may find apple cider vinegar helpful, while others could experience irritation or worsening of symptoms. Your health care provider can help you find the best approach for your unique needs.

Talk With Others Who Understand

MySebDermTeam is the social network for people with seborrheic dermatitis and their loved ones. On MySebDermTeam, more than 15,000 members come together to ask questions, give advice, and share their stories with others who understand life with seborrheic dermatitis.

Are you living with seborrheic dermatitis? Have you tried apple cider vinegar or related products as part of your treatment regimen? Share your experience in the comments below, or start a conversation by posting on your Activities page.