Dull and lacklustre hair is caused by inadequate care, treatment, and misuse of different hair products. Most beauty brands these days incorporate vital ingredients that aim to correct the general concerns of people regarding their hair. Apple cider vinegar is one of the ingredients with countless benefits, from strengthening to nourishing and protecting the hair from damaging elements. It seals the cuticle, or the outer layer of the hair shaft, to avoid clogging by dirt and oil. Its antibacterial and fungal properties help to relieve the scalp of dryness, itchiness, and infection. It also helps reduce hair loss and breakage, promotes hair regrowth, and exfoliates the scalp while maintaining its moisture and nutrients.
When using apple cider vinegar on the hair, one must consider its acidic nature. It contains acetic acid, a corrosive liquid in concentrated form, that may burn the skin when applied directly. It is important to dilute it by combining equal parts of raw apple cider vinegar with room temperature water. Various hair products containing apple cider vinegar have existed on the market for a very long time now. One of the best product selections includes the WOW Apple Cider Vinegar Shampoo and Conditioner Set as the number one choice for its natural ingredients and effective removal of sweat and dirt build-up.
Listed below are the top 3 best Apple Cider Vinegar Hair Products in 2022.
- Best Overall: WOW Apple Cider Vinegar Shampoo and Conditioner Set is the best overall apple cider vinegar hair product because of its clarifying power and glossy finish. The combination of apple cider vinegar and argan oil makes the product a great fit for all hair types and colours.
- Best for Dandruff: Head & Shoulders Dandruff Shampoo Infused with Apple Cider Vinegar is a paraben-free clarifying shampoo that effectively relieves the scalp from itching and dandruff while smoothing the hair.
- Best Organic Formula: Avalon Organics Smooth Shine Apple Cider Vinegar Shampoo is a cruelty-free, plant-based shampoo that gently cleanses and moisturises the hair without the use of synthetic ingredients.
1. WOW Apple Cider Vinegar Shampoo and Conditioner Set (Best Overall Shampoo)
The WOW Apple Cider Vinegar Shampoo and Conditioner Set detoxifies the hair and removes the oil and dirt build-up due to pollution and other hairstyling products. It is free from harmful chemicals such as parabens, sulphates and silicones and is ideal for vegans. The shampoo and conditioner set is safe for all types of hair due to its gentle formulation. The shampoo is made with pure and natural apple cider vinegar from authentic Himalayan apples, boosted with nettle. leaf extract, which functions as a dihydrotestosterone (DHT) blocker, a hormone responsible for hair loss. The conditioner contains organic virgin coconut oil and avocado oil to nourish the hair, making it glossy and smooth. The WOW Apple Cider Vinegar Shampoo and Conditioner Set retails for around £21.19. With its moisturising and hydrating properties, users rate it 4-stars out of 5.
Advantages of WOW Apple Cider Vinegar Shampoo and Conditioner Set |
Disadvantages of WOW Apple Cider Vinegar Shampoo and Conditioner Set |
Uses natural ingredients |
Pricey |
Safe for chemically treated hair |
Strong smell |
Leaves hair looking fresh and smooth |
Creates a film-like substance |
2. Head & Shoulders Dandruff Shampoo Infused with Apple Cider Vinegar (Best For Dandruff)
The Head & Shoulders Dandruff Shampoo Infused with Apple Cider Vinegar deeply purifies the hair and scalp to prevent the persistence of dandruff and itching. It is considered America’s #1 trusted brand for dandruff shampoos and is paraben-free. It is guaranteed to remove flakes, build-up and contaminants and leaves the hair fresh and shiny. Furthermore, it is also safe for all varieties of hair. The Head & Shoulders Dandruff Shampoo Infused with Apple Cider Vinegar is available for around £4.87. It is rated 4.5 out of 5 for its clinically proven and safe formula.
Advantages of Head & Shoulders Dandruff Shampoo Infused with Apple Cider Vinegar |
Disadvantages of Head & Shoulders Dandruff Shampoo Infused with Apple Cider Vinegar |
Cooling effect |
Contains sulphates |
Great smell |
Can be drying |
3. Avalon Organics Smooth Shine Apple Cider Vinegar Shampoo (Best Organic Formula)
The Avalon Organics Smooth Shine Apple Cider Vinegar Shampoo is a gentle clarifying shampoo that cleanses and rejuvenates the hair without removing all of its moisture. It is made with organic ingredients and is free from synthetic and harmful chemicals. It produces a rich foam that would make the hair silky-smooth and deeply conditioned after washing. The Avalon Organics Smooth Shine Apple Cider Vinegar Shampoo is available for £37.40. Users rate it 4.5-stars out of 5 for its all-natural formulation.
Advantages of Avalon Organics Smooth Shine Apple Cider Vinegar Shampoo |
Disadvantages of Avalon Organics Smooth Shine Apple Cider Vinegar Shampoo |
Vegan |
Overdries the hair |
Lathers well |
Pricey |
Gentle yet effective |
Thin liquid |
4. AG Hair Natural Balance Apple Cider Vinegar Sulfate-Free Shampoo
The AG Hair Natural Balance Apple Cider Vinegar Sulfate-Free Shampoo is packed with rich botanicals such as aloe vera and argan oil, which help moisturise and smooth the hair. The combination of essential oils like lemongrass, clary sage, and lavender provides aromatherapy benefits. It is made of plant-based ingredients and is manufactured through a physical process. It is made for different hair types and is safe for colour-treated hair. The AG Natural Balance Apple Cider Vinegar Sulphate-Free Shampoo is available for £56.30. Customers rate it 4.3 out of 5 stars because it contains no sulphates and makes the hair light and soft.
Advantages of AG Hair Natural Balance Apple Cider Vinegar Sulfate-Free Shampoo |
Disadvantages of AG Hair Natural Balance Apple Cider Vinegar Sulfate-Free Shampoo |
Leaves the hair feeling soft |
Pricey |
Vegan |
Sticky consistency |
Great for curly/wavy hair |
Strong scent |
5. Hair Story New Wash Deep
The Hair Story New Wash Deep is a deep cleansing formula that is a great alternative to shampoo and conditioner. Its formula is a mixture of organic essential oils that leaves the hair moisturised and free from frizz. The product targets greasy roots by purifying the scalp while locking in nutrients and moisture. It is free of artificial fragrances and works well for most hair types and colours. Hair Story's New Wash Deep retails for about £35.90, and customers rate it 3.8 out of 5 for delivering good results from hydration to volume.
Advantages of Hair Story New Wash Deep |
Disadvantages of Hair Story New Wash Deep |
Shampoo and conditioner combined into one formula |
Not able to rinse out immediately |
Maintains colour of the hair |
Pricey |
Cruelty-free |
Tends to get oily over time |
6. Cantu Cleanse Apple Cider Vinegar Root Rinse
The Cantu Cleanse Apple Cider Vinegar Root Rinse is perfect for deep conditioning and detoxifying the scalp. It uses apple cider vinegar, tea-tree oil and shea butter for extra moisturisation and does not contain any mineral oil, parabens or sulphates. It alleviates irritation and itching caused by dandruff and is suitable for braids, curls, and weaves as it doesn’t necessarily require washing with water. The Cantu Cleanse Root Rinse is available online for £4.06 with a customer rating of 4.6 out of 5 for its effective clarifying action and relief from itchiness of the scalp.
Advantages of Cantu Cleanse Apple Cider Vinegar Root Rinse |
Disadvantages of Cantu Cleanse Apple Cider Vinegar Root Rinse |
Comes with a pointed nozzle for easy application |
Strong smell |
Inexpensive |
Product may linger on the scalp |
Relieves dryness and itchiness |
Sticky consistency |
7. sansCeuticals pH + Shine Corrector
The sansCeuticals pH + Shine Corrector is an essential hair tonic that restores the natural state of the hair. Its primary active component, along with apple cider vinegar, is Vitamin B5; which is responsible for the thickening and moisturisation of the hair. Suitable for thick, dull, damaged hair, the product also prevents frizz and preserves colour-treated hair. The sansCeuticals pH + Shine Corrector maintains optimal hair health and provides a glossy finish after washing. With its anti-frizz formula, the pH + Shine Corrector costs £40.84 online and has a rating of 4.1 out of 5.
Advantages of sansCeuticals pH + Shine Corrector |
Disadvantages of sansCeuticals pH + Shine Corrector |
Gives instant shine and moisture |
Pricey |
Great for medium to thick hair |
Small volume of product |
8. John Masters Organics Herbal Cider Hair Clarifier & Color Sealer
The John Masters Organics Herbal Cider Hair Clarifier & Color Sealer is a hair treatment for coloured hair and is ideal for users who live in harsh environmental places. The product comprises all-natural essential oils and herbs that hydrate the hair and removes excess sebum and dirt build-up on the scalp. It is perfect for all hair types and leaves the hair shiny and healthy after use. The Herbal Cider Hair Clarifier & Color Sealer costs around £20.65 and with a rating of 5-stars out of 5 for its effective removal of hair pollutants.
Advantages of John Masters Organics Herbal Cider Hair Clarifier & Color Sealer |
Disadvantages of John Masters Organics Herbal Cider Hair Clarifier & Color Sealer |
Cruelty-free |
Requires dilution |
Good for all hair types |
Contains dye |
Locks in colour |
Must be diluted |
9. Renpure Apple Cider Vinegar Clarify & Shine Scalp Serum
Renpure Apple Cider Vinegar Clarify & Shine Scalp Serum is infused with organic ingredients that make it gentle to the hair while providing the utmost moisture and nourishment. Its formulation consists of Argan Oil, Tea Tree Oil, Coconut and Shea butter, and it doesn’t use any synthetic chemicals such as phthalates, sulphates and formaldehyde that would aggravate the skin. The product helps in removing flakes and build-up while leaving the hair feeling soft and rejuvenated. The Clarify & Shine Scalp Serum is sold for £6.92 and is rated 4.5 out of 5 for its effective flake and grime removal.
Advantages of Renpure Clarify & Shine Scalp Serum |
Disadvantages of Renpure Clarify & Shine Scalp Serum |
Effective penetration on the scalp |
Non-lathering formula |
Lightweight formula |
May affect colour-treated hair over time |
Great smell |
Watery |
10. Pureology Vinegar Hair Rinse
The Pureology Vinegar Hair Rinse will leave the hair more radiant after removing product build-up while maintaining its natural state. The Vinegar Hair Rinse is a moisturising and purifying product that gives off the benefits of apple cider vinegar without the overpowering smell. Its formulation includes Cactus Pear Flower Extract, which contains significant amounts of vitamin E, which supports the scalp and reduces stress that may suppress hair growth. It also contains Omega-6 and Omega-9 which have reinvigorating properties that promote volume and luminosity. It is also ideal for chemically treated and coloured hair and even for users living in dry and hot environments. A rating of 4.5 out of 5 is given to Pureology Vinegar Hair Rinse due to its effective removal of build-up and the ability to keep the hair manageable and frizz-free. It is available in stores for around £22.21.
Advantages of The Pureology Vinegar Hair Rinse |
Disadvantages of The Pureology Vinegar Hair Rinse |
Brightening formulation |
Watery |
Leaves the hair frizz and tangle-free |
A bit expensive |
11. SheaMoisture Strengthen & Restore Shampoo with Apple Cider Vinegar
The SheaMoisture Strengthen & Restore Shampoo with Apple Cider Vinegar boosts hair growth by strengthening and restoring nourishment for flat and damaged hair. It reduces the appearance of flyaways and breakages and helps in balancing the pH levels of the scalp to prevent the growth of bacteria, dust deposits and grease. The product contains Jamaican Black Castor Oil, and it is believed to have growth and detoxifying properties. It is also safe for all types of hair textures and colours. The shea butter component thoroughly moisturises the hair and scalp while the peppermint stimulates its circulation, which could improve hair growth and control hair loss. It is also safe for users with Sabborrheic Dermatitis, as it helps alleviate the scalp while making the hair fuller. SheaMoisture Strengthen & Restore Shampoo is available for £6.55 and is rated 4.6 out of 5 by users.
Advantages of The SheaMoisture Strengthen & Restore Shampoo with Apple Cider Vinegar |
Disadvantages of The SheaMoisture Strengthen & Restore Shampoo with Apple Cider Vinegar |
Improves circulation of the scalp to hasten hair growth |
Clumping of ingredients |
Cost-effective |
A little watery |
Perfect for scalp eczema |
Overpowering smell |
12. Beauty and the Bees Tasmanian Apple Cider Vinegar Hair Tonic Shampoo Bar
The Beauty and the Bees Tasmanian Apple Cider Vinegar Hair Tonic Shampoo Bar is an all-natural and chemical-free shampoo bar handcrafted on Australia’s wild island, Tasmania. It smoothens frizzy hair and prevents split ends while it moisturises and unclogs the deepened crusts and gunk forming around the hair follicles for stronger and more voluminous hair. It is also suitable for individuals experiencing eczema and dandruff. Some of its components are olive oil, coconut oil, and castor oil, which deeply condition and improve the elasticity of the hair. In addition, it is free from sulphates, parabens, and plastic, which live up to the brand's mission of eco-sustainability. The Hair Tonic Shampoo bar is sold for £12.28 and is rated 5-stars out of 5 mainly for its effective cleansing, shine and moisture restoration and environmental-friendly approach.
Advantages of The Beauty and the Bees Tasmanian Apple Cider Vinegar Hair Tonic Shampoo Bar |
Disadvantages of The Beauty and the Bees Tasmanian Apple Cider Vinegar Hair Tonic Shampoo Bar |
All-natural ingredients and eco-friendly |
Has to be kept dry to prolong shelf-life |
Stimulates hair growth and strength |
Inconvenient to pack for travelling |
13. Aveeno Scalp-Soothing Apple Cider Vinegar Hair Blend Shampoo
The Aveeno Scalp-Soothing Apple Cider Vinegar Hair Blend Shampoo is a soothing and clarifying shampoo perfect for managing dull and lifeless hair. It enhances the hair’s natural state from root to tip while maintaining scalp health. The product contains no parabens, dyes, or sulphates to ensure the good overall condition of the hair. Its other key ingredient, colloidal oatmeal extract, has a lot of proven benefits like anti-inflammatory, antifungal, skin protectant and skin soother. The blend of ingredients creates a fresh and delightful formula that works for many types of hair. The Aveeno Scalp-Soothing Apple Cider Vinegar Hair Blend Shampoo is rated 4.5-stars out of 5, mainly for making the hair softer, shinier, and thicker without using a conditioner. It is available on the market and sold for around £5.74.
Advantages of The Aveeno Scalp-Soothing Apple Cider Vinegar Hair Blend Shampoo |
Disadvantages of The Aveeno Scalp-Soothing Apple Cider Vinegar Hair Blend Shampoo |
Great for oily and dull hair |
Strong scent |
Combats itching and dry patches |
Product may linger on the scalp |
Affordable |
May burn if in contact with eyes |
14. Beekman 1802 Apple Cider Vinegar Rinse
The Beekman 1802 Apple Cider Vinegar Rinse cleanses and removes build-up and locks in the nutrients for a healthy scalp and hair. It is made from organic ingredients and is free from synthetic chemicals, colourants and alcohol. The product may be used after showers or between wash days. With the easy-to-use spray bottle, all hair lengths are effectively covered. It is safe for colour-treated hair and does not affect its vibrancy. The product is infused with goat milk, lavender, chamomile, clary sage, and rosemary for complete hair and scalp nourishment. The Beekman 1802 Apple Cider Vinegar Rinse costs around £24.65 and has a rating of 4.1 out of 5 for its cleansing and softening effect.
Advantages of The Beekman 1802 Apple Cider Vinegar Rinse |
Disadvantages of The Beekman 1802 Apple Cider Vinegar Rinse |
Perfect for all hair types |
Vinegar smell is prominent |
Leaves the hair soft and shiny |
A little pricey |
15. dpHue Apple Cider Vinegar Detangling Conditioner
The dpHue Apple Cider Vinegar Detangling Conditioner has a lightweight formula that is ideal for individuals who are not used to the thick and sticky feeling of conventional conditioners. It is made for all hair types and colours and gives the hair the appropriate detangling and moisturisation. The formula is rich in amino acids and argan oil that lock in the essential nutrients and improve overall hair health and appearance. It is free from artificial chemicals such as phthalates, parabens, and silicone and protects against harmful UV rays. The dpHue Apple Cider Vinegar Detangling Conditioner retails for around £24.59 and is rated 4.4 out of 5 stars for its ultra-light formulation.
Advantages of The dpHue Apple Cider Vinegar Detangling Conditioner |
Disadvantages of The dpHue Apple Cider Vinegar Detangling Conditioner |
Colour-safe |
Causes build-up when not rinsed properly |
Ultra lightweight consistency |
Pricey |
How to choose the best apple cider vinegar product?
When choosing the best apple cider vinegar product, individuals must consider choosing between filtered or unfiltered products, depending on their purpose. Unfiltered apple cider vinegar provides probiotics and minerals that are intended to have a wide array of benefits, like soothing the skin, relieving muscle pain, and maintaining gut health. Filtered apple cider vinegar is pasteurised and most of the healthy bacteria and nutrients are killed. For drinking and cooking, unfiltered apple cider vinegar is the way to go, as it doesn’t contain artificial additives and flavourings. When using it as a hair rinse or cleansing solution, both filtered and unfiltered products are safe to use. Overall, raw, unpasteurised and unfiltered products must be the top choice when choosing the best apple cider vinegar.
What are the ways to use apple cider products?
Apple cider vinegar is the holy grail of natural supplements and an all-around kitchen and health staple. Its different uses may be for hair treatments, cleaning, food preservation, pain relief, and skin care.
Listed below are the best ways to use apple cider vinegar products.
- Digestive support: Apple cider vinegar increases stomach acid for better digestion. It is also known for its antimicrobial properties, which combat harmful bacteria in the digestive system.
- Improves dental health: It is a great remedy for toothaches and kills bacteria in the mouth to prevent infection and bad breath.
- All-purpose cleaner: Mix 2 cups of water and 1 cup of apple cider vinegar in a spray bottle to clean kitchen surfaces, including countertops, microwaves and sinks.
- Flea repellant: Apple cider vinegar has a distinct smell and taste that fleas avoid. Combine equal parts of apple cider vinegar and water and gently spray on pets to help get rid of the irritants.
- Foot deodoriser: Apple cider vinegar can reduce foot odour due to its antimicrobial properties, which neutralise odour-causing bacteria.
- Soothes sore throat: It is a common home remedy to gargle apple cider vinegar mixed with water to relieve a sore throat. It reduces harmful bacteria that would eventually cause infection in the throat. Combine 1 cup water and ¼ cup apple cider then gargle for 2-3 minutes.
- Skin toner: Apple cider vinegar rebalances the skin's pH and helps remove oil that could create breeding grounds for bacteria that contribute to the appearance of pimples over time.
- Weed repellant: Using apple cider vinegar as a weed repellant is clean and cost-effective. It is natural, so there are no hard pesticides and herbicides.
- Reduces swollen feet and ankles: Apple cider vinegar is rich in potassium, which reduces fluid retention. Combine equal parts of apple cider vinegar and water, then completely soak a clean cotton towel. Squeeze the excess, then wrap the towel around the feet for 15-20 minutes.
What are the best apple cider vinegar hair shampoos?
Apple cider vinegar is indeed an all-around natural ingredient that could deliver positive results in most types of products. It is cheap, effective, and beneficial, especially when used as a shampoo. Its exfoliating and deep cleaning properties are just two of its best functions.
Listed below are the top 3 best apple cider vinegar shampoos.
- WOW Apple Cider Vinegar Shampoo: Wow Apple Cider Vinegar Shampoo is the best apple cider vinegar of 2022. The shampoo is best for deep cleaning and moisturising from the root to the tip of the hair. It successfully removes the build-up of hair products, dirt, and pollutants that could make the hair dull and frizzy. It is infused with almond oil and argan oil that deeply nourishes the roots of the hair for an extra shine. The product costs around £21.19.
- Renpure Apple Cider Vinegar Shampoo: Renpure’s Apple Cider Vinegar Shampoo is for people looking for a budget-friendly shampoo packed with mostly plant-based ingredients that is safe to use in the long run. The product has a gentle cleansing effect that would guarantee the users an effective but not damaging product. It also contains soothing ingredients such as mint, argan oil, and honey that also provide a relaxing feel. It is currently available and can be purchased for £13.17.
- Aveeno Scalp Soothing Apple Cider Vinegar Blend Shampoo: Over shampooing can make the hair brittle over time. That’s why checking the label for nourishing ingredients is a must. Aveeno’s Scalp Soothing Apple Cider Vinegar Blend Shampoo contains oatmeal extract, a skin soothing ingredient that cleanses and moisturises the hair after washing. Its gentle cleaning action is perfect for a variety of hair types and is also budget-friendly. It is sold for around £5.76.
What are the best apple cider vinegar hair conditioners?
While shampoo cleans off dead skin cells, sweat, dirt, and impurities, conditioners enrich the hair with moisture and shine. It keeps the hair hydrated as shampoos mostly strip off the natural nutrients from the hair follicles, making the hair dry, brittle and frizzy. Conditioners intensified with apple cider vinegar rebalance the scalp environment to promote healthy hair growth.
Listed below are the top 3 best apple cider vinegar hair conditioners.
- Aveeno Apple Cider Vinegar Sulfate-Free Conditioner: Aveeno’s Apple Cider Vinegar Conditioner has soothing and clarifying properties that boost the overall hair state. The product is best for its volumizing, smoothing, and shining effects. It is free from sulphate, parabens and dyes and is also cruelty-free. The conditioner is safe for all hair types and colour-treated hair and is sold for around £11.14.
- artnaturals Apple Cider Vinegar Conditioner: The artnaturals Apple Cider Vinegar Conditioner is best for its restoring and rejuvenating power. It reduces split-ends and smoothens flyaways. The conditioner reduces itch and dandruff and rinses away sweat and dirt residue. It typically costs around £8.97.
- Renpure Plant-Based Beauty, Apple Cider Vinegar Conditioner: Its plant-based, chemical-free formula gives the hair the natural treatment it deserves. The ingredients are carefully regulated to create a product that is clean and safe while leaving the hair smooth and refreshed. It features tea tree oil, lemon sage, mint, bamboo, and honey for an extra nourishing and soothing effect. Since it is phthalate, paraben, and sulphate-free, it is gentle enough for daily use. It can be purchased for around £9.42. <
Is using apple cider vinegar products healthy for your hair?
Yes, apple cider vinegar products are healthy for the hair. In an alkaline environment, hair may be dull, frizzy, and split-end prone. Apple cider vinegar, with its acidic nature, lowers the pH and restores the balance of the hair. Apple cider vinegar is rich in nutrients and minerals such as vitamin B and C, which are good for proper hair growth and quality. Products containing apple cider vinegar will not only nourish the hair but also help eliminate unwanted pollutants and toxins that may potentially infect the scalp. For individuals dealing with dandruff and flaking, apple cider vinegar is a great natural remedy to use. With proper manufacturing and chemistry, apple cider vinegar blends well with other ingredients to create a well-effective product.