You might wonder — if you're using a really effective curl shampoo, why bother with an apple cider vinegar rinse at all?
Fair question. And honestly, it's one I asked myself too.
Our Curl Shampoo is formulated to cleanse thoroughly without stripping your curls. It does its job really well. So when I tell people I still do a monthly ACV rinse, I get a few raised eyebrows.
Here's the thing: it's not about what the shampoo can't do. It's about what apple cider vinegar adds.
What an ACV Rinse Actually Does
Apple cider vinegar has a naturally low pH, which helps to:
- Seal the hair cuticle for smoother, shinier strands
- Balance your scalp's natural pH after washing
- Gently remove any residual buildup that accumulates over time — from hard water, styling products, or environmental exposure
- Enhance curl definition and reduce frizz
Even with a great shampoo in your routine, a monthly ACV rinse acts like a reset — a deeper recalibration for your scalp and strands.
How I Do It
Once a month, I apply a diluted ACV solution before shampooing — this is called a pre-shampoo treatment. I mix roughly 1–2 tablespoons of raw, unfiltered apple cider vinegar in a cup of water, pour it through my hair, and let it sit for a few minutes. Then I shampoo as normal, follow with my Curl Conditioner, and style as usual.
Doing it before shampooing means the shampoo then cleanses away any lingering vinegar scent, and your hair is left fresh, balanced, and ready to absorb all the goodness from your conditioner.
The result? My curls feel lighter, bouncier, and my scalp feels genuinely balanced.
The Bottom Line
A great shampoo and an ACV rinse aren't competing — they're complementary. Think of your shampoo as your weekly cleanse and the ACV rinse as your monthly tune-up.
If you haven't tried it yet, give it a go once a month and see how your curls respond. Your scalp might just thank you.