Wrinkles are a natural part of aging. As we get older, our skin loses elasticity and becomes thinner, drier, and less able to protect itself from damage. This leads to the development of fine lines, wrinkles, and age spots on areas of the face and body that get a lot of sun exposure. While wrinkles are inevitable, there are ways to reduce their appearance and slow down the aging process. One method that has become quite popular is using apple cider vinegar, either topically or internally, to treat wrinkles. But does apple cider vinegar really help reduce wrinkles and what does the research say?
What Causes Wrinkles?
Wrinkles form as we age for a few key reasons:
- Loss of collagen – Collagen is a protein that gives skin its strength and structure. As we age, collagen breaks down faster than it can be replenished, causing skin to become weaker.
- Loss of elasticity – Elastin fibers give skin its snap-back ability and youthful resilience. Over time, elastin breaks down and skin becomes less elastic.
- Loss of facial volume – Fat cells in the face diminish with age, causing sagging skin and hollowness under the eyes and cheeks.
- Sun exposure – UV radiation from the sun accelerates the breakdown of collagen and elastin in the skin.
- Smoking – Chemicals in cigarette smoke destroy collagen and elastin and constrict blood vessels in the skin.
- Facial expressions – Repeated facial movements and expressions cause dynamic wrinkles around areas like the eyes and mouth.
- Gravity – Over time, gravity causes skin to droop and sag.
While genetics play a role in how quickly someone develops wrinkles, sun exposure is the single biggest cause of premature aging of skin. Lifestyle factors like smoking, dehydration, poor nutrition, and stress can also accelerate wrinkle formation.
How Can Apple Cider Vinegar Help Reduce Wrinkles?
Apple cider vinegar (ACV) has gained popularity as a home remedy for everything from weight loss to dandruff. But can it really help diminish wrinkles and fine lines? Here are some of the proposed ways ACV may help:
- Contains alpha hydroxy acids: ACV contains acetic acid, a type of alpha hydroxy acid (AHA). AHAs are known to help exfoliate dead skin cells and stimulate new cell turnover. This may help reduce the appearance of fine lines and improve skin tone and texture.
- Has antioxidants: Polyphenols and vitamins in ACV act as antioxidants that help neutralize free radicals and protect against oxidative damage that can accelerate skin aging.
- Can restore pH balance: ACV is acidic with a pH around 3. The acidic nature may help restore the skin’s natural mildly acidic moisture barrier, which often becomes disrupted in aging skin.
- May tighten skin: Some small studies suggest ACV can help tighten the skin and make facial muscles contract. This may provide a temporary tightening effect on sagging skin.
When applied topically, ACV may exfoliate and brighten dull skin to make wrinkles less noticeable. When consumed, it may improve skin health from the inside out thanks to its antioxidant content.
Apple Cider Vinegar Wrinkle Treatments
Here are some popular methods for using ACV topically and internally to reduce the appearance of wrinkles and aging skin:
Topical ACV Remedies
- ACV Toner: Mix 1 part ACV with 2-3 parts water and apply to clean skin with a cotton ball. The acetic acid may provide gentle exfoliation while balancing pH. Rinse after 5-10 minutes.
- ACV Moisturizer: Add 1 teaspoon ACV to your regular face moisturizer and apply to damp skin after cleansing. This dilutes the acidity while providing wrinkle-fighting antioxidants.
- Apple Cider Vinegar Bath: Add 2 cups ACV to a warm bath and soak for at least 15 minutes. The acetic acid may soften rough skin and the antioxidants may protect against free radical damage.
Internal ACV Remedies
- Drink diluted ACV: Mix 1-2 tablespoons ACV with a glass of water and drink before meals. Start with small amounts and gradually increase to avoid side effects.
- Take an ACV capsule: Take a supplement containing 500-1500mg of ACV. Capsules provide acetic acid without the strong taste.
- Use in recipes: Add ACV to salad dressings, marinades, and other recipes. It provides a tangy flavor along with skin-friendly vitamins and minerals.
ACV Wrinkle Treatment Benefits and Results
While evidence is limited, some small studies and anecdotal reports suggest ACV may provide the following benefits for aging skin when used topically and internally:
- Brighter, more even skin tone
- Smoothing of fine lines and shallow wrinkles
- Reduced appearance of sun and age spots
- Firmer, more supple skin texture
- Increased moisture retention
- Restored skin pH
- Enhanced collagen production
However, ACV is not a cure-all for wrinkles. While it may provide mild improvements, don’t expect dramatic differences, especially for deep wrinkles. Results also take time and regular use.
How to Use Apple Cider Vinegar Safely
To avoid side effects, use the following safety tips when using ACV:
- Always dilute ACV before applying to skin – using it full-strength can cause burns
- Do a patch test before wider use to check for allergic reactions
- Rinse skin thoroughly after an ACV application
- Avoid contact with eyes and sensitive areas
- Start with small oral doses like 1 tsp and increase slowly to avoid upset stomach
- Drink through a straw to minimize contact with tooth enamel
- Talk to your doctor before consuming if you have diabetes, heartburn, or are taking medication
ACV may not be suitable for people with very sensitive skin. Discontinue use if any irritation occurs.
The Bottom Line
Evidence that ACV improves wrinkles and aging skin is limited. Small studies show some benefits, but more research on optimal formulations and long-term impacts are needed. However, ACV is inexpensive, accessible, and may provide mild improvements when used properly and consistently over time. While not revolutionary, adding ACV to your skin care and diet regimen may be worthwhile as part of an overall anti-aging plan.
Key Takeaways
- Wrinkles form from collagen and elastin breakdown, loss of facial volume, and years of sun exposure and facial expressions.
- ACV contains alpha hydroxy acids and antioxidants that may improve wrinkles when used topically and internally.
- Research is limited but shows modest improvements in skin texture, moisture, and appearance of fine lines.
- Use ACV diluted to avoid burns. Results take time. It won’t erase deep wrinkles.
- ACV may be helpful as part of your overall skin care and lifestyle approach to healthy aging.