Crepey skin, also known as crepe skin, refers to skin that appears thin, wrinkled, and paper-like. It often develops on the neck, chest, arms, and legs as a result of aging and loss of elasticity in the skin. While crepey skin is a natural part of the aging process, many people seek ways to improve its appearance. One popular home remedy is apple cider vinegar. But does apple cider vinegar actually help improve crepey skin?
What Causes Crepey Skin?
Crepey skin occurs due to several factors:
- Aging – As we get older, our skin naturally loses collagen, elastin and fat, causing it to become thinner and more fragile over time.
- Sun damage – UV radiation from the sun breaks down collagen and elastin fibers in the skin, contributing to skin laxity.
- Genetics – Some people are just genetically predisposed to having thinner skin that is more prone to crepiness.
- Lifestyle factors – Smoking, poor nutrition, dehydration and excessive weight loss can accelerate the development of crepey skin.
These factors cause the skin to become thinner, drier, and less elastic. This allows small wrinkles and creases to form, giving the skin a crinkly, crepe paper-like appearance. Areas where skin is very thin and experiences repeated movement, like the underarms, knees, elbows and neck, are especially prone to crepiness.
While crepey skin is harmless, many people seek ways to improve its appearance for cosmetic reasons. Using moisturizers and creams that contain retinol or alpha hydroxy acids can boost collagen production and gently exfoliate to reduce the look of crepey skin. But some also turn to home remedies like apple cider vinegar.
What is Apple Cider Vinegar?
Apple cider vinegar is a vinegar made from fermented apple juice. It contains acetic acid, probiotics, and several vitamins and minerals like potassium, magnesium, phosphorus and vitamin C.
Apple cider vinegar has been used for centuries as a health tonic and natural remedy for many conditions. Proponents claim it provides benefits for blood sugar control, weight loss, heart health and digestive issues. It’s also commonly used as a household cleaner and natural beauty product.
These days, many people are using apple cider vinegar topically on the skin and consuming it orally for its proposed benefits on crepey skin. But is there any evidence that it actually works?
Does Apple Cider Vinegar Improve Crepey Skin?
There is limited research specifically on apple cider vinegar and crepey skin. However, some of its properties provide plausibility for beneficial effects:
Contains alpha hydroxy acids
Apple cider vinegar contains alpha hydroxy acids like lactic and malic acid from the fermentation process. Alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs) are known to help exfoliate dead skin cells and promote cell turnover. This may help improve crepey skin texture by enhancing smoothness.
Has antioxidants
Apple cider vinegar provides antioxidant compounds like chlorogenic acid and catechins. Antioxidants help neutralize skin-damaging free radicals that accumulate from sun exposure and pollution. This may help slow down collagen and elastin breakdown in crepey skin.
Can enhance collagen production
Some small studies show vinegar may enhance collagen synthesis in the skin. One study found rice vinegar applied topically increased collagen in rat wound healing. The acetic acid in vinegar may also help stimulate collagen. More collagen means firmer, more resilient skin.
Increases moisture
Apple cider vinegar is often cited as having a hydrating effect on the skin. Its antibacterial properties could also help restore moisture by improving the skin microbiome. Well-hydrated skin has enhanced elasticity and fewer wrinkles.
Improves hyperpigmentation
Research shows vinegar can inhibit melanin production and reduce pigmentation when applied topically. This could help even out discoloration associated with crepey skin.
So while there’s no direct research yet, there is some evidence and theory suggesting apple cider vinegar could potentially improve crepey skin by:
– Gently exfoliating
– Neutralizing free radicals
– Stimulating collagen production
– Improving hydration
– Evening skin tone
However, keep in mind that vinegar is also very acidic and could cause skin irritation if used incorrectly. Always do a patch test before applying it all over. And be sure to dilute it with water to decrease acidity.
How to Use Apple Cider Vinegar for Crepey Skin
If you want to give apple cider vinegar a try for crepey skin, here are a few methods:
Oral supplementation
Some people take apple cider vinegar capsules or add 1-2 teaspoons (5-10 mL) to water and drink it daily. The goal is to receive its internal collagen and antioxidant benefits. Start with a low dose diluted in water to assess tolerance. Do not take undiluted shots of vinegar.
Skincare toner
Mix 1 part raw, unfiltered apple cider vinegar with 3-4 parts water. After cleansing skin, soak a cotton ball and apply it all over crepey areas. Rinse with cool water after 5-10 minutes. Do this 1-2 times per week.
Body wash
Add 2 tablespoons (30 mL) apple cider vinegar to 1 cup (250 mL) of your regular body wash. Apply to crepey areas in the shower, then rinse. Use this mix 2-3 times per week.
Massage oil
For an indulgent treatment, mix 4 tablespoons (60 mL) apple cider vinegar with 1⁄4 cup (60 mL) coconut or olive oil. Massage this into crepey skin for 5-10 minutes before bathing. Do this once or twice weekly.
Compresses
Soak a small towel in a mix of 1 part vinegar diluted in 4 parts warm water. Apply this to the crepey area for 10-15 minutes. Follow with moisturizer. Repeat 2-3 times a week.
When using apple cider vinegar on the skin, always patch test first to ensure you don’t develop a reaction. Start with lower concentrations and less frequent application. Monitor for any increased redness or irritation.
Other Tips for Improving Crepey Skin
While apple cider vinegar may provide some benefits, improving crepey skin also requires diligent skincare and lifestyle practices:
- Use sunscreen daily to protect skin from further UV damage
- Quit smoking to maximize skin health
- Eat a diet rich in collagen-boosting foods like citrus, leafy greens, berries, fish and bone broth
- Stay well-hydrated by drinking plenty of water
- Use moisturizers with hyaluronic acid, retinol, antioxidants and peptides
- Exfoliate regularly with gentle AHAs and moisturize to enhance skin renewal
- Consider in-office treatments like laser resurfacing, radiofrequency or ultrasound therapy
- Manage stress through meditation, yoga, massage and adequate sleep
A comprehensive approach that combines skin-enhancing lifestyle habits, proper skincare, and procedures will provide the best results for crepey skin. Apple cider vinegar may help, but should be just one piece of your regimen.
The Bottom Line
Crepey skin is a common sign of intrinsic aging and sun damage that leaves skin appearing thin and wrinkled. While more research is needed, apple cider vinegar contains beneficial compounds that provide theoretical potential to improve crepey skin when applied topically or taken orally.
Apple cider vinegar may help gently exfoliate, stimulate collagen production, add antioxidants, and enhance moisture retention. However, it should always be diluted before use to prevent skin irritation. While apple cider vinegar may provide some mild improvements, the most dramatic results will come from sticking to a complete anti-aging lifestyle and skincare regimen.
Overall, apple cider vinegar is a relatively safe, accessible option to try. But manage expectations, as it’s unlikely to completely transform severe crepey skin on its own. Consistency with use and combining it with other lifestyle changes and collagen-stimulating ingredients will provide the best chance for improving the appearance of crepey skin over time.