Supporters of ACV often mention that it may help create a balanced scalp environment. Because ACV is mildly acidic, some believe it can assist in maintaining the scalp’s natural pH, which could in turn support healthy skin turnover. Others say it seems to help loosen buildup from dead skin cells or styling products, leaving the scalp feeling cleaner. There are also claims that ACV may slow the growth of certain microorganisms that contribute to irritation. However, these are observations shared by individuals rather than conclusions drawn from large, controlled studies. For this reason, ACV should not replace medically recommended treatments when someone is experiencing ongoing or severe scalp issues.
A scientific review published in 2022 noted that ACV might offer some benefit for dry scalp, a condition that is frequently mistaken for dandruff because both may cause flaking or itchiness. The review highlighted that ACV shows antimicrobial and antifungal activity in certain laboratory settings, but its effectiveness depends heavily on how strong the solution is and which organisms are being tested. In other words, while ACV may influence some microbes, it does not work universally and should not be viewed as a guaranteed or stand-alone remedy. The findings underscore the need for further research before ACV can be confidently recommended for specific scalp conditions.
