How to Make an Herbal Apple Cider Vinegar Hair Rinse for Any Hair Type
If your hair’s been feeling a little dull, oily, or just “blah” lately, it might be time to hit reset—without stripping it raw or spending a fortune on salon treatments. This DIY herbal apple cider vinegar hair rinse is one of my favourite ways to bring hair back into balance, especially after summer swims, dry winters, or a build-up of styling products.
Apple cider vinegar (ACV) has long been a trusted kitchen staple, but did you know it’s also a natural wonder for your scalp and strands? Whether your hair is curly, fine, colour-treated, grey, or somewhere in between, this rinse can help restore shine, reduce frizz, and support a healthy scalp—all without harsh chemicals.
Let’s whip up a batch together, shall we?
Why Apple Cider Vinegar Works Wonders for Hair
ACV is rich in natural acids and enzymes that gently remove product build-up, balance your scalp’s pH, and even help soothe itchy or flaky skin. It’s also antibacterial and antifungal, making it especially helpful if your scalp is acting up. And best of all? It closes the hair cuticle, which helps your strands lie flat and look smooth and shiny.
Here’s what ACV can do:
- Clarifies product build-up
- Balances scalp pH
- Smooths frizz and seals the hair cuticle
- Enhances shine and softness
- Soothes itchy, dry, or flaky scalp
- Helps define waves and curls
- Encourages healthy hair growth
Choosing Your Herbal Add-Ins
This recipe is easily customized depending on what your hair and scalp need most. You can infuse your vinegar with herbs for an extra boost. Here are some options:
- Rosemary – Great for stimulating growth and reducing dandruff
- Lavender – Calming for the scalp and lightly fragrant
- Nettle – Strengthens roots and supports hair growth
- Chamomile – Soothes the scalp and brings out golden tones in lighter hair
- Sage – Deep-cleansing and helpful for oily hair and scalp
- Hibiscus – Rich in antioxidants and gives a slight pink tint
- Peppermint – Cooling and refreshing, great for itchy scalps
Herbal Apple Cider Vinegar Hair Rinse Recipe
You’ll Need:
- 1 cup raw, unfiltered apple cider vinegar (with the “mother”)
- 1/4 cup dried herbs of your choice (or a mix—see above!)
- 2 cups distilled or filtered water
- A glass jar with a lid for infusing
- A clean spray bottle or squeeze bottle for storage
Instructions
- Infuse the Vinegar
Add your dried herbs to the glass jar and pour the apple cider vinegar over them. Seal the lid and place the jar in a cool, dark place for 1–2 weeks. Give it a little shake every day if you remember (I leave mine near the tea canisters so I don’t forget). - Strain and Dilute
Once infused, strain out the herbs using cheesecloth or a fine mesh strainer. Combine 1 part infused vinegar with 2 parts water. For example, if you use 1/2 cup vinegar, add 1 cup water. - Store and Use
Pour your rinse into a spray or squeeze bottle and keep it in the shower. After shampooing, apply the rinse from scalp to ends. Let it sit for a few minutes, then rinse with cool water. You won’t smell like a salad—I promise! The scent fades quickly, especially once your hair dries.
Tips for Use
- How often? Use once a week or every other wash for best results.
- Color-treated hair? Yes, but dilute it well (2–3 parts water to 1 part vinegar) and patch test first.
- Can I skip the herbs? Absolutely. The ACV works beautifully on its own too.
- Don’t like the vinegar smell? Add a few drops of essential oils (like rosemary, lavender, or tea tree) to the final mixture.
- Dry hair tip: Use a heavier conditioner or hair oil on ends after rinsing if needed.
Shelf Life
The vinegar infusion itself will last up to 6 months in a cool, dark cabinet. Once diluted with water, it’s best used within 1–2 weeks or stored in the fridge.
Why I Love It
I started using an ACV rinse when I noticed my roots getting oily while my ends stayed dry. It felt like my hair couldn’t make up its mind. Within a couple of uses, everything felt balanced again. The itchiness around my scalp disappeared, and my hair had this soft, natural shine that even my teenagers noticed (that’s saying something, right?).
Now I keep a bottle on hand year-round. It’s a lifesaver after the beach, during dry winter spells, or anytime my scalp just needs a little reset.
Pin & Share It
Want to come back to this recipe later or share it with a friend? Save it on Pinterest or send it to someone who’s fed up with pricey, chemical-laden hair treatments. Your scalp will thank you.
Let me know in the comments—what’s your favourite herb to use in your hair care routine? And if you try this recipe, I’d love to hear how it goes!
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