There is no cure foreczema, but there are treatments available to help manage symptoms.
Treatments can include over-the-counter (OTC) remedies, prescription medications, or complementary or alternative therapies.
One alternative therapy isapple cider vinegar.
Verywell / Theresa Chiechi
Some people with eczema use apple cider vinegar to help with their symptoms.
Apple cider vinegar is a kind of fermented apple juice.
Fermentation turns fruit sugars into alcohol, then bacteria turn the alcohol into acetic acid.
This is why apple cider vinegar has a strong smell and sour taste.
However, there is little scientific evidence proving the efficacy or health benefits of using apple cider vinegar.
It is possible apple cider vinegar may be helpful for eczema, in theory.
People with healthy skin have a natural skin pH level under 5.0.
People with eczema have a higher pH level.
The skin acidity can also be influenced by the skin’s own microbiota, which help protect against bacteria.
In people with eczema, there are higher levels of staph bacteria on the skin.
This is because:
However, apple cider vinegar should never be applied directly to the skin.
When used to treat eczema, it is applied to the skin in diluted formtypically in a bath.
Apple cider vinegar also carries some risks if it is consumed.
Apple cider vinegar may also be harmful to pregnant women if consumed in large quantities.
When to Seek Treatment
Eczema can cause uncomfortable or even painful symptoms.
You should contact your healthcare provider if you have any new symptoms, or if your symptoms get worse.
A Word From Verywell
Eczema can cause itchy skin that might be inflamed or even painful.
There is no cure for eczema, but a number of treatments are available.
Apple cider vinegar is an alternative treatment used by some people with eczema to help their symptoms.
If you are considering trying apple cider vinegar for eczema, you should speak with your healthcare provider.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you use apple cider vinegar in the bath to treat eczema?
Those living with eczema may find home remedies like baths helpful in treating their symptoms.
How long does it take apple cider vinegar to treat your skin?
There are no scientific studies that have proven that apple cider vinegar is effective at treating skin in eczema.
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National Eczema Association.Complementary, integrative and alternative medicine 101.
National Eczema Association.Tips for using baths to manage eczema symptoms from the NEA community.
National Eczema Association.Get the facts: Apple cider vinegar.
National Eczema Association.6 ways to manage your eczema without breaking the bank.
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Johns Hopkins Medicine.Eczema.
National Eczema Association.Bathing, moisturizing and wet wraps.
