Is it good to wash your hair with flour and vinegar over a long period?

Nov 10, 2025 Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Sun Lianqing
Introduction
In general, it is not advisable to wash hair with flour and vinegar over the long term. However, short-term, occasional use with proper technique may offer some benefits. Before use, the flour should be mixed into a smooth paste free of lumps to avoid scratching the scalp, and the vinegar should be diluted to reduce irritation. After each use, thorough rinsing is essential to prevent residue from damaging the scalp.

Generally speaking, it is not advisable to wash your hair regularly with flour and vinegar over the long term. However, short-term, occasional use with proper technique may offer some benefits. The detailed analysis is as follows:

Flour particles are fine and can gently absorb oil and dirt from the scalp and hair strands, reducing residue from chemical cleansers. Vinegar helps regulate the scalp's pH level and promotes closing of the hair cuticles, temporarily making hair smoother. When used occasionally for a short period and thoroughly rinsed, this method can clean the scalp while minimizing irritation, offering some relief for sensitive scalps or temporary excess oiliness. However, prolonged use can disrupt the scalp’s natural oil balance. Flour residue may clog hair follicles, leading to itching and dandruff, while the acidity of vinegar could damage the scalp barrier and hair structure, resulting in dry, brittle hair and red, irritated scalp.

Before use, flour should be mixed into a smooth paste free of lumps to avoid scratching the scalp; vinegar must be diluted to reduce its irritancy. After each use, rinse thoroughly to prevent residue buildup that could harm the scalp. If you experience scalp stinging, redness, or increased hair tangling, discontinue use immediately and switch to a mild, specialized shampoo to protect the health of your scalp and hair.