Research doesn’t support the use of apple cider vinegar to treat dandruff. But, anecdotal evidence suggests that it may have some benefits for your scalp skin.

Proponents of apple cider vinegar (ACV) suggest it may help dandruff by:

  • balancing the pH of your scalp
  • stimulating the shedding of dead skin cells from your scalp
  • reducing fungal growth on your scalp and hair

But, there’s no research-based evidence to suggest that this remedy actually works. Keep reading to learn about what we do know about the properties of ACV that might support your skin, including your scalp.

One 2022 review suggests that ACV may be helpful in reducing scalp dryness. Dry scalps can sometimes look like dandruff. However, dandruff and dry scalp have different causes, and it’s unclear whether ACV might be helpful for one, the other, or both.

Generally, ACV may have some health-related properties that may support skin health. For instance, it may have some antifungal and disinfectant properties.

Certain bacteria, such as staphylococcus, may be particularly associated with dandruff, and the condition can also be confused with fungal infections.

That said, a 2019 test-tube study found that while undiluted ACV does have strong antimicrobial properties, it may not be effective against all types of microorganisms. While ACV generally worked well against bacteria at a 25% concentration, it was less successful against Candida yeast.

Therefore, more research is necessary to examine the benefits and drawbacks of using ACV as a remedy for any skin condition.

Although using ACV for dandruff isn’t scientifically supported, the 2022 review suggests the following to treat dry scalp.

  1. Combine 2 parts ACV with one part water for dilution
  2. Apply to the scalp and leave for 15 minutes
  3. Pour the water and ACV mix through your hair.
  4. Wash off with warm water
  5. Repeat twice a week, and take care to avoid getting it in the eyes.

That said, it’s a good idea to consult with a doctor before applying ACV to the skin. If you do choose to try it, stop using it if it causes stinging, itching, or skin discoloration.

You may also want to consider shampoos that have ingredients proven to help with dandruff. These include:

  • pyrithione zinc, an antibacterial and antifungal agent found in Head & Shoulders and DermaZinc
  • selenium sulfide, an antifungal agent found in Selsun Blue and Head & Shoulders Intensive
  • ketoconazole, an antifungal agent found in Nizoral A-D
  • coal tar, which is found in Neutrogena T/Gel
  • salicylic acid, which is found in Baker’s P&S and Neutrogena T/Sal

Always follow the label directions, and if one product isn’t as effective as desired, try another. If none of these anti-dandruff shampoos work to limit or eliminate your dandruff, talk with a doctor or dermatologist. They may recommend a prescription-strength dandruff shampoo or steroid lotion.

If you have an allergic reaction after using any of these products, including difficulty breathing, hives, or a rash, seek immediate medical attention.

In addition to what we know about ACV and the skin, this vinegar may have other health benefits. These include:

That said, test tube research suggests that even low concentrations of ACV may be toxic. While this effect hasn’t been shown in humans, it does raise some concerns, and more research on ACV safety is needed.

There’s no shortage of claims about the health benefits of ACV online. Some of them are backed up with scientific research, while others are only supported by anecdotal evidence.

Using ACV for dandruff is one of those popular claims that isn’t backed up with scientific evidence.