Can you drink vinegar for glowing skin? Viral video says do as the Japanese do

Japan perfectly balances tradition and technology, seamlessly blending ancient practices with modern advancements. While the country never fails to impress the rest of the world with its technological innovations, it also draws inspiration from its cultural heritage. This harmonious fusion is evident in the rise of J-Beauty, which is now giving tough competition to K-Beauty in popularity.
Japanese beauty routines are renowned for their simplicity and effectiveness, emphasising healthy, radiant skin through minimalist practices and high-quality products. However, beauty isn’t just about what we apply to our skin; it’s also about what we consume.
A recent viral Instagram Reel shows Joomee Song, the face architect behind the innovative Kaika facial massage, discussing a Japanese tradition: drinking a vinegary beverage before the first meal of the day. This practice is believed to make the body’s pH levels a bit acidic and may have surprising benefits for the skin.
Drinking vinegar is also gaining traction in India, with various options now available on the market. But does it truly enhance skin health and provide that glow we all dream about? Let’s find out from the experts.
Ishijyot Surri, executive chef and founder of Mulk, Miniyaturk, and SJI Gourmet, tells India Today that Japanese vinegar, or ‘su’, has different types used for cooking and as a health drink.
The chef goes on to share that drinking vinegar has been a part of Japanese culture for centuries, linked to Kurozu, a black vinegar from fermented brown rice in Kagoshima.
“It started in the Edo period (1603–1868) for culinary and medicinal uses, especially among farmers for fatigue and vitality. During the Meiji period (1868–1912), it became a wellness tonic known for health benefits. It is seen as a remedy for stamina, digestion, and skin health, and is still popular today,” adds Surri.
Further, the type of rice used in making drinking vinegar significantly affects its nutritional profile, flavour, and health benefits:
According to Dr Ruby Sachdev, consultant aesthetic physician at Gleneagles Hospital, Bengaluru, Japanese drinking vinegar can be beneficial for the skin.
It is rich in acetic acid, amino acids, and antioxidants, which may help maintain a healthy skin barrier by regulating pH levels, promoting hydration, and supporting collagen production.
These properties could lead to clearer, more supple skin, improved skin tone, and reduced inflammation.
Additionally, the probiotics found in fermented vinegars can aid gut health, which is closely linked to skin health.
It is believed that the antioxidants in drinking vinegar help fight free radicals, slowing down the ageing process and preventing wrinkles.
Adding to this, Dr Ruben Bhasin Passi, consultant dermatologist at CK Birla Hospital, Gurugram, shares that drinking vinegar promotes acid formation and might be helpful in digestion.
“The food taken after the vinegar tends to be processed early and would not lead to intestine build-up, as the pH of the stomach would be on the higher side. Hence, iron absorption would be easy,” she adds.
Dr Aparna Santhanam, a Mumbai-based dermatologist, credits the worldwide increase in its popularity to the drink’s holistic approach to wellness.
It combines the traditional health benefits of vinegar with the rise of fermented foods, which are known for improving gut health. People are more aware of the connection between gut health and skin clarity, making this a trendy and appealing option.
Meanwhile, its mild taste compared to stronger vinegars like apple cider vinegar also adds to its appeal. Vinegar also prevents sugar spikes, thereby aiding a healthier body and skin.

Experts believe that Japanese drinking vinegar can be good for your skin (Photo: Getty Images)

Dr Ajay BR, associate consultant in medical gastroenterology at Aster Whitefield Hospital, Bengaluru, goes on to tell us that Japanese drinking vinegar has numerous health benefits:
Experts feel that while Japanese drinking vinegar is generally safe in moderate amounts, overconsumption can lead to certain side effects.
“Japanese drinking vinegar is typically diluted with water (about 1-2 tablespoons in a glass of water) and consumed before meals,” says Dr Sachdev.
Adding to this, Dr Santhanam shares that white rice vinegar is the mildest and has a more subtle flavour, which is good for daily use and general skin health.
Brown rice vinegar is richer in nutrients and amino acids, making it ideal for those seeking deeper detoxification and more hydration for the skin.
Black rice vinegar, on the other hand, is known for its high antioxidant content, which can help in combating free radicals, reduce signs of ageing, and improve skin elasticity. It’s more intense in flavour but can be a great choice for anti-ageing purposes.

Drinking vinegar should always be diluted before consumption (Photo: Getty Images)

The doctor adds that consuming Japanese drinking vinegar before your first meal can be especially effective for skin health. Drinking it on an empty stomach may boost digestion and aid in the detoxification process, leading to clearer skin.
Its ability to stabilise blood sugar levels and improve the gut microbiota may further reduce inflammation, which can manifest as clearer and more radiant skin.
However, you must proceed with caution: