The Wonders of Apple Cider Vinegar and Aging Skincare

Recently, I was at a birthday party for my grandnephew who turned one year old. It was a lovely party and there were several generations represented. The oldest generation was the baby's great grandmother who was 90+ years old. She looked marvelous. She had beautiful skin, just like the baby.

"What is the secret to her good looks?" I said to my sister-in-law. "My face has more wrinkles than great grandma and I am only 53."

"She drinks apple cider vinegar every day," said my sister-in-law. "I think she drinks a few teaspoons or tablespoons. It is not only good for your skin, but it is also good for your digestive system."

"I use apple cider vinegar as an astringent every night," continued my sister-in-law. "Dilute the vinegar six to one with water. Then dab it on your face with a cotton ball before you put your moisturizer on. There will be a slight smell, but it will dissipate quickly."

"Really?" I said with excitement, "Could simple, inexpensive vinegar possibly be the perfect skincare product to perk up my face during my life after 50?"

I could not wait to get home and try this new potion. Off to the supermarket I went to buy a bottle of apple cider vinegar. I bought a quart-size to ensure I will have enough vinegar to last for a long, long time.

There's a chill in the autumn air these days. It's apple season. I love all things made with apples. Apple dumplings and applesauce, apple crisp and apple betty, apple turnovers and apple cider donuts.

And when the sun goes down and it's time for bed, I take my apple cider vinegar out of the cupboard and mix up my skincare regiment. I wash my face with cleanser. Then I pat down my face with diluted apple cider vinegar and allow it to dry. Finally, I put a dollop of moisturizer on my face, just as I would if I were topping a slice of apple pie with whipped cream.

I went to get a mani and pedi this weekend. There was a piece of paper with the words "apple cider vinegar" on the table where my manicurist was sitting. "I love apple cider vinegar," I said to my manicurist. "What are you doing with apple cider vinegar?" "One of my clients told me that it cures cuts on your hands," said my manicurist. "Really?" I replied. "You should try it on your face. It's so wonderful for aging skin. Yes it is. Yes it is."