Baking soda has been a popular home remedy for years, but social media often exaggerates its benefits. While it can act as a mild exfoliant, there is no scientific evidence that baking soda removes wrinkles, permanently fades dark spots, or eliminates dark circles. In fact, using it too often may damage your skin’s natural protective barrier.
If you’re curious about trying baking soda, here’s how to do it as safely as possible.
Potential Benefits
Gentle Exfoliation
Baking soda can help remove dead skin cells, leaving the skin feeling temporarily smoother.
Oil Removal
People with oily skin may notice that baking soda helps absorb excess surface oil, although the effect is temporary.
Brighter Appearance
By exfoliating dead skin cells, the skin may appear brighter for a short time.
Risks to Consider
Because baking soda is highly alkaline (pH around 9), it can disrupt the skin’s naturally acidic barrier.
Possible side effects include:
- Dryness
- Redness
- Irritation
- Burning sensation
- Increased sensitivity
- Worsening eczema or rosacea
For these reasons, dermatologists generally do not recommend regular use of baking soda on the face.