Apple Cider Vinegar Hair Rinse Recipe

Learn how to make my apple cider vinegar hair rinse recipe with essential oils that are great for beautiful hair. 

Finding all natural haircare products that work for different hair types can be tricky. I have tried more brands of shampoo than I can count! 

While I’ve discovered some favorites along the way, I’ve had my fair share of fails too. Either my hair is left super dry and feels like straw or I can’t seem to get it all out of my hair and it leaves a terrible film.

Have you ever had that happen? Whenever it happens to me, I have to reset my hair and scalp. I go back to a brand I know I like, but first I do a good apple cider vinegar homemade hair rinse to get the buildup out.

It’s super easy to make this homemade hair rinse with ingredients you probably have on hand if you’re into making your own beauty products. I like using apple cider vinegar because it helps to not only remove buildup, but also to detangle and reduce frizz.

Supplies

• 1 ½ cups of hot water
• 3 tablespoons of apple cider vinegar
• 4 drops of rosemary essential oil
• 4 drops of lavender essential oil
• 4 drops of tea tree essential oil
• 3 drops of lemongrass essential oil

Step-by-Step: How to Make an Apple Cider Vinegar Hair Rinse

Follow these simple steps to learn how to make my apple cider vinegar hair rinse recipe.

Step 1: Combine Water and ACV

Add 1 ½ cups of hot water and 3 tablespoons of apple cider vinegar to a small mixing bowl or measuring cup.

Step 2: Add Essential Oils

Add 4 drops of rosemary essential oil, 4 drops of lavender essential oil, 4 drops of tea tree essential oil and 3 drops of lemongrass essential oil to the water and vinegar mixture. Whisk all of the ingredients together until the essential oils fully disperse.

Step 3: Store or Use

Transfer to an airtight glass jar and store at room temperature until you’re ready to it.

Tips for Making and Using Apple Cider Vinegar Hair Rinses

Answer to all of your questions about my apple cider vinegar hair rinse recipe, including tips, substitutions and use instructions.

How to use the hair rinse

Immediately after you’ve finished rinsing out your shampoo, shake the mixture in the jar then pour it over your hair. You can also use a squeeze bottle for easier application and to help distribute the rinse evenly throughout your hair.

After applying the rinse, leave it on for a few minutes before rinsing it out with cool water to help seal the hair cuticle.

Frequency of use

Depending on your hair type, you might want to use the rinse once a week or every other week. Overuse can lead to dryness.

Is it safe for sensitive skin?

If you have sensitive skin or a sensitive scalp, I recommend doing a a patch test before using the rinse to avoid any irritation or adverse reactions.

Can it be used instead of conditioner?

Yes, many people can use this homemade hair rinse in place of conditioner – a lot of people using the no-poo method love it!

Why add essential oils?

Since apple cider vinegar has such a strong smell, I like to add a few essential oils to balance the smell and provide benefits to the hair as well. If you don’t have all of the essential oils, it’s okay to omit one or two. And you can get ideas for substitutions in my Coconut Milk Shampoo recipe.

I have used many different brands of essential oils over the years, and the ones with the most consistent smells I use now are Rocky Mountain Essential Oils.

Can this rinse help with dandruff?

Yes, the tea tree oil and apple cider vinegar have properties that can help with dandruff and scalp health.

Will this rinse affect hair color?

It’s generally safe for all hair colors, but if you have color-treated hair, test on a small section first to ensure it doesn’t affect the color.

Is it safe for curly hair?

Yes, this rinse can help define curls by removing buildup and adding shine. Just ensure you moisturize afterward as needed.

Shelf life and storage tips

While you can technically make a bigger batch of this hair rinse recipe ahead of time and store it for a few weeks or longer, I like to make it just before I use it, one batch at a time. It only takes a few minutes to put together and I always have these ingredients on hand anyhow.

If you choose to make it ahead of time, be sure to store the mixture in a cool, dark place in an airtight container. If you make a larger batch, refrigerate it to prolong its shelf life.

More DIY natural hair care recipes

• Shampoo Bars
• Coconut Milk Shampoo
• Dry Shampoo
• Hair Detangler Spray

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