Raw apple cider vinegar smells very strong, and there is no way around that. I got the Orange Peel, but all I could really smell was vinegar. (I added some Rosemary and that helped). If I find the scent overpowering, I dilute this with some water and pour it over my hair instead of using the product straight from the spray bottle. Either way, my hair LOVES the result. I use this once a week before shampooing, work it through my hair thoroughly, squeeze it out, rinse, and then shampoo. There is no vinegar smell left behind, and my hair is soft and squeaky clean!