Baking soda is one of the most versatile products found in your kitchen – and you might be surprised to learn that it can also do wonders for your skin.
I’m going to share 8 amazing baking soda uses for skin, so you can see all of the awesome ways baking soda can improve your skin texture and tone. So, keep on reading to find out more…
Beauty Benefits of Baking Soda
If you deal with acne breakouts, baking soda can be your new best friend. Its antibacterial properties can help you manage these breakouts by targeting the bacteria at the root of the problem.
Just mix a tablespoon of baking soda with water, creating a paste, and apply it as a spot treatment to those pesky pimples.
However, be cautious if you have sensitive skin, as it might cause some irritation.
For those looking to brighten their complexion, baking soda is a natural and cost-effective solution. Baking soda for dark spots or an uneven skin tone can help reveal a more radiant complexion.
Mix baking soda with honey, then apply as a face mask, leave it on for 10 to 15 minutes, and rinse with lukewarm water. Do this once or twice a week to maximize the benefits for your skin.
If your skin is in need of some gentle exfoliation, baking soda has the perfect texture to remove dead skin cells.
Combine a tablespoon of baking soda and water to form a paste, then gently massage it into your skin in a circular motion, avoiding your eyes.
Rinse with warm water afterward. This treatment will reveal visibly smoother and softer skin.
Adding a baking soda bath to your skin care routine is another way to reap its benefits. Its alkaline nature can help soothe irritated skin and even alleviate some symptoms associated with skin conditions such as eczema.
To make a baking soda bath, dissolve ½ cup of baking soda into a tub of warm water and soak for about 15 to 20 minutes. It’s as simple as that.
Sensitive skin types should use caution when using baking soda on their face, as it may cause irritation.
Always be sure to do a patch test on a small area of your skin before integrating baking soda into your daily beauty routine.
How Does Baking Soda Benefit the Skin?
Baking soda, also known as sodium bicarbonate, is a versatile ingredient that can benefit your skin in several ways. Let’s dive into some of the ways baking soda can help improve your skin’s texture and appearance.
Gentle Exfoliation: Baking soda’s fine, granular texture works as a gentle exfoliator, helping to remove dead skin cells and revealing smoother, healthier skin underneath.
You can make a simple paste by mixing a small amount of baking soda with water, then gently massage it onto your skin in circular motions before rinsing it off.
Balancing Skin pH: Your skin’s pH balance plays a significant role in its overall health, and baking soda can help restore this balance.
It is mildly alkaline, which can help neutralize the acidity in your skin and bring it closer to the desired pH level. This, in turn, can help reduce acne and other skin irritations.
Soothing Inflammation: Baking soda has mild anti-inflammatory properties, which can help calm red or irritated skin.
If you are dealing with a sunburn or insect bite, a baking soda paste can provide much-needed relief. Simply mix baking soda and water to create a thick paste, apply it to the affected area, and let it sit for a few minutes before rinsing it off.
Oil Reduction: If you have oily skin, baking soda can help keep excess oil in check.
Since it works as a mild exfoliant, it can remove the excess sebum that contributes to oily skin and clogged pores. However, be sure not to use it too often, as overuse can lead to skin irritation or dryness.
Can I Apply Baking Soda On Face Directly?
You might be wondering if you can apply baking soda directly to your face. The answer is both yes and no. Baking soda can be used on your face, but it’s essential to do so correctly and with caution.
Mixing baking soda with water to create a paste is the most common and recommended way to apply it to your face.
Baking soda, also known as sodium bicarbonate, has exfoliating and pH-balancing properties.
These qualities can help remove dead skin cells and regulate your skin’s pH level, leading to smoother and healthier-looking skin.
Consider your skin type and sensitivity before diving in. Baking soda is quite alkaline, so using it undiluted can potentially cause skin irritation, redness, or even burns.
Therefore, it’s essential to perform a patch test before applying a baking soda mixture to your face.
To create a baking soda paste for your face, follow these steps:
- Combine 1 part baking soda with 3 parts water in a bowl.
- Stir until a smooth paste forms.
- Apply a small amount to your clean and dry face, avoiding your eyes and any broken or inflamed skin.
- Gently massage the paste in circular motions for about 30 seconds.
- Rinse thoroughly with warm water, and then pat your face dry.
Remember, baking soda can be drying, so make sure to follow up with a gentle moisturizer.
8 Amazing Baking Soda Uses for Skin
Exfoliating For Super Soft Skin
To make your skin super soft and smooth, try using baking soda as a gentle exfoliant. Simply mix a teaspoon of baking soda with enough water to create a paste.
Gently massage the paste onto your face in circular motions. Rinse your face with cool water. Repeat this 1-2 times a week for best results.
Remove Dead Skin Cells
Baking soda helps remove dead skin cells, leaving your skin refreshed. Mix a teaspoon of baking soda with a little water, and apply it to your face and body, focusing on areas with dry skin. Massage gently and then wash it off with cold water.
Fights Body Odor
Baking soda can help you combat body odor. Create a paste by mixing a teaspoon of baking soda with water, then apply it to your underarms.
Leave it on for a few minutes before washing it off with cool water. This helps neutralize the odor and keep you fresh.
Giving You Glowing Skin
For glowing skin, mix baking soda with honey and apply the paste to your face. Let it sit for 10-15 minutes before rinsing with cool water.
This combination helps moisturize and soothe your skin.
Fading Acne Scarring Or Age Spots
To reduce the appearance of acne scars or age spots, mix equal parts baking soda and lemon juice.
Apply the mixture to your skin and let it sit for a few minutes before washing it off. The exfoliating properties of baking soda combined with the lightening effect of lemon juice can help fade the spots.
Reducing The Appearance Of Pores
Baking soda is excellent for reducing the visibility of your pores. Make a paste by combining baking soda with a bit of water, and apply it to your face. Leave it on for 3-5 minutes before rinsing off with cold water.
Give You Pink Lips
To achieve pink and supple lips, blend together baking soda and a few drops of water. Gently scrub your lips with this mixture for a minute and then remove it with a damp cloth.
Your lips should feel softer and appear brighter.
Blackhead Remover
Baking soda is effective in removing blackheads. Mix a teaspoon of baking soda with enough water to create a paste, and apply it to the affected areas.
Allow it to dry and then rinse your face with cold water.
Can Baking Soda Help with Acne and Dark Spots?
Yes, baking soda could help with acne and dark spots on your skin. Baking soda, or sodium bicarbonate, is a versatile compound with multiple uses.
It works as a mild exfoliant, helping to remove dead skin cells and unclog pores.
Baking soda has anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties, which may help reduce redness and irritation caused by acne.
To use baking soda for acne, you could try making a simple, homemade face mask. Just mix a small amount of baking soda with water to form a paste and apply it to the affected areas.
Make sure not to leave it on for too long, as it can be drying to your skin. Rinse it off with warm water after a few minutes, and remember to apply a moisturizer afterward.
For dark spots, baking soda’s exfoliating properties could help lighten pigmentation over time.
To use it on dark spots, make a paste of equal parts baking soda and water and gently massage it onto the affected areas for about a minute.
Rinse it off with warm water and apply a moisturizer. It’s essential to be patient and consistent with this method, as results may take a few weeks to appear.
Crafting a Face Mask: Combining Coconut Oil and Baking Soda
If you’re looking for a simple and effective face mask, try combining coconut oil and baking soda.
This combination can be a powerful ally in your skincare routine, offering benefits like exfoliation and moisturization.
Here’s how to create your own coconut oil and baking soda face mask in just a few easy steps.
First, gather your ingredients. You’ll need:
- 1 tablespoon of coconut oil
- 1 teaspoon of baking soda
Make sure to use high-quality, organic coconut oil, as it offers better skin-nourishing qualities than processed oils.
Baking soda will act as a gentle exfoliant, helping to remove dead skin cells and leave your skin feeling smoother.
Next, mix the coconut oil and baking soda together in a small bowl until they form a smooth paste.
If the coconut oil is too solid, you can gently heat it in a microwave or on the stove, just until it becomes a liquid. Be careful not to overheat it, as this can cause skin irritation.
Once your paste is ready, apply it to your clean and dry face, avoiding the eye area.
Gently massage the mixture onto your skin using circular motions, focusing on areas with dryness or congestion. This gentle exfoliation helps to slough off dead skin cells and reveal a brighter, more radiant complexion.
Allow the mask to sit for about 5-10 minutes, giving the coconut oil time to absorb into the skin and provide deep hydration.
Afterward, rinse your face with warm water, making sure to remove all traces of the mask.
Best Way to Use Baking Soda as a Face Wash
Baking soda can be an affordable, effective, and natural alternative to conventional face washes.
To make a baking soda face wash, all you need is a little water and some baking soda. Here’s how to create your own face wash using baking soda:
- Measure out the baking soda: Start by taking a clean bowl and adding about a tablespoon of baking soda. You can adjust this amount based on your preference, but starting with a small quantity is a good idea.
- Add water: Slowly add water to the baking soda while stirring the mixture with a clean spoon. Continue adding water until you reach a paste-like consistency. The ratio of baking soda to water is usually around 1:3, but you can adjust the consistency as you see fit.
- Apply to your face: Using clean hands, apply the baking soda paste to your damp face, gently massaging it in circular motions. Be sure to avoid contact with your eyes.
- Let it sit for a minute: Allow the baking soda mixture to sit on your face for a minute, or until it starts to feel slightly dry. This allows the baking soda to help unclog your pores and exfoliate your skin.
- Rinse thoroughly: After the mixture has sat on your skin for a minute, rinse it off thoroughly with warm water. Remove all traces of baking soda, as leaving any residue behind can cause skin irritation.
For optimal results, use the baking soda face wash once or twice a week. Always remember to moisturize your skin after using the face wash, as baking soda can be drying.
Everyone’s skin is different, and some people may be more sensitive to baking soda than others.
If you experience any irritation or discomfort, discontinue use immediately and consult with a dermatologist.
What Are The Side Effects Of Using Baking Soda On The Skin?
While this common household item has many uses, it may not be suitable for everyone. Here are some side effects to look out for:
Irritation: Baking soda can cause skin irritation, especially if you have sensitive skin.
If you notice redness, itching, or burning after using baking soda, it might be a good idea to discontinue its use on your skin.
Dryness: As an effective exfoliator, baking soda may remove dead skin cells. However, it could also strip your skin of natural oils, leading to dryness and discomfort.
Make sure to moisturize your skin after using baking soda to prevent excessive dryness.
pH Imbalance: Your skin has a natural acidic barrier, with a pH level around 4.5 to 5.5. Baking soda has a high pH of around 9, which can disrupt the skin’s natural acidity.
Constantly using baking soda on your skin could potentially weaken this barrier and make you more prone to infections.
Allergic Reactions: While rare, it is possible to experience an allergic reaction to baking soda. Symptoms may include swelling, hives, and difficulty breathing.
If you experience any of these signs, discontinue use and seek medical attention promptly.
How to Soothe Ingrown Hair and Pores with Baking Soda
Baking soda can be an effective remedy for ingrown hairs and clogged pores, thanks to its gentle exfoliating and anti-inflammatory properties.
When combining it with water, you can create a simple paste that gently removes dead skin cells, unclogs pores, and soothes irritation.
First, make a baking soda paste. Combine 1 tablespoon of baking soda and a small amount of water to form a thick, spreadable paste.
You can adjust the amount of water depending on your desired consistency.
Next, apply the paste to the affected area. Gently massage the baking soda paste onto the ingrown hairs and clogged pores using small, circular motions.
Allow the paste to sit for a few minutes. Let the baking soda do its work for 3 to 5 minutes, but no longer, as it may cause excessive dryness if left on the skin for extended periods.
Use this time to relax and allow the soothing properties to take effect.
Rinse with warm water and pat dry. Gently rinse your skin with lukewarm water, making sure to remove all the paste.
Carefully pat your skin dry with a clean towel, avoiding rubbing to prevent extra inflammation.
For optimal results, consider repeating this process every few days until you notice an improvement in your skin’s condition.
Remember to moisturize the area after treatment to maintain healthy, hydrated skin. If you experience any discomfort, redness, or dryness, discontinue use and consult with a dermatologist.
Summary
Baking soda is an affordable kitchen staple with multiple beauty benefits. It can be used as a gentle exfoliator to remove dead skin cells, balance your skin’s pH level, and soothe red or irritated skin.
Baking soda can help reduce acne scars or age spots over time when mixed with a few drops of lemon juice; however, consistency and patience are key.
For those looking for a simple face mask recipe to try out at home, combining coconut oil and baking soda may provide excellent results by way of exfoliation and hydration.
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Sandra
Sunday 20th of August 2023
Can you use this for wrinkles and fine lines
Gemma Etc.
Sunday 20th of August 2023
Hi Sandra, absolutely! I have a post all about how you can baking soda for wrinkles and fine lines, I hope it's helpful for you xx
https://www.gemmaetc.com/2023/06/does-baking-soda-reduce-wrinkles.html