Vinegar
Vinegar (an acetic acid solution). It regulates formula acidity and gently tones skin. Well tolerated.
Supporting ingredient
It gives a product its texture, stability or shelf life. It has no claimed effect on the skin, so an efficacy tier does not apply. What is known about its safety is below
Tolerability and safety
- Irritation potential
- Low
- Allergen risk
- Low
- Pregnancy
- Safe
- Suitable for
- Normal, Dry, Combination, Oily, Sensitive
About this ingredient
Vinegar (INCI: Vinegar) is a dilute solution of acetic acid made by fermentation. In cosmetics it is used mainly to shift the formula pH toward a slightly acidic value, and at low levels it leaves a toning feel on the skin. This is a functional ingredient, an acidity regulator, not a skincare active. The right pH matters for product stability and for the skin's acid mantle, but vinegar itself does nothing for wrinkles, pigmentation or acne. Topically there is no meaningful systemic absorption, so it can be used during pregnancy and breastfeeding without concern. Tolerance is good: both irritation and allergy risk are low. At the usual cosmetic levels it causes no discomfort. Only at high concentration or undiluted can acetic acid sting or dry the skin, which finished formulas avoid.
Frequently asked questions
Is Vinegar safe during pregnancy?
Vinegar is considered safe during pregnancy at typical cosmetic concentrations. Systemic absorption through the skin is minimal.
What skin types is Vinegar for?
Vinegar suits: normal, dry, combination, oily, sensitive.
What is Vinegar and what does it do in cosmetics?
Vinegar (an acetic acid solution).
What's the INCI name for Vinegar?
The INCI name is Vinegar.
See Vinegar in a product composition right on the store page
The Evigrade extension adds an evidence panel to iHerb, Sephora, Druni and 12 more stores. This ingredient and every other one in the product show evidence-tier, allergen risk and pregnancy/lactation flags at a glance.
Similar role in the formula
Other functional ingredients
Vinegar (Acetum), Vinyl Dimethicone, VP/Eicosene Copolymer, VP/Hexadecene Copolymer, CI 15850 (Red 7 Lake), Hydroxyethylpiperazine Ethane Sulfonic Acid, PEG-8 Laurate, Sodium Anisate
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