Baking soda is one of the most versatile ingredients we have in the kitchen. Cleans, inflates cakes, refreshes clothes, and even whitens teeth (or at least they say). But can he do wonders on the skin as well? You may have heard that it helps in acne, but is the truth a little more complicated?

Let’s see what really is true.

What is baking soda and how does it work?

Baking soda, also known as sodium bicarbonate, is an alkaline ingredient with the ability to balance acids. This is why it is used to relieve insect bites and small skin irritations.

In the case of acne, the soda acts mainly as an exfoliating. Its small grains can help remove dead cells, while its alkalinity temporarily reduces oiliness. But the problem is that our skin doesn’t work exactly that way …

Are there any benefits?

On a theoretical level, yes, baking soda has some qualities that could be useful:

– Mild exfoliation: Its texture helps to remove dead cells, which can help prevent acne.

– Redness and irritation relief: Due to its anti -inflammatory properties, it can temporarily soothe.

– Oil Adjustment: If you have too much oily skin, you can temporarily feel more “matte”.

However, the keyword here is temporary.

Why can it be a problem?

As tempting as the use of soda cooking sounds, there are serious reasons to rethink it:

—Dransives the pH of the skin

-Our skin is naturally acidic (pH 4-6), which helps it to keep moisture and protect us from bacteria and pollutants. Baking soda, however, has a very high pH (around 9), which can weaken the natural defense of the skin and leave it exposed to irritation and infections.

—Puts dryness and sensitivity

-If you’ve ever tried the baking soda on your skin, you may have felt this “pull” feeling. This is because it removes natural skin oils, resulting in dryness and potential redness.

-Contan

-It may seem strange, but excessive dryness can make the skin produce even more oiliness, leading to more pimples.

-These the aging of the skin

-The continuous pH disorder and stripping from natural oils can lead to early appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.

If you want to try it, notice these

If nevertheless you are thinking of trying baking soda on your skin, do it carefully:

— Use it only locally

-Don’t spread it all over the face! If you want to try it, apply it only to specific pimples.

-Dered a simple paste

-Remove 2 teaspoons of soda with a little water until a thick paste is made.

-Fill it for a few minutes

Do not keep it on the skin for more than 5-10 minutes.

Hydration, hydration, hydration

-Immediately, apply a good moisturizing cream (and don’t forget the sunscreen!).

-De use other powerful products at the same time

-Avoid combining it with other active ingredients, such as retinol or acids, because your skin can be even more irritated.

-No every day

-At time a week is a lot, and only if you do not have sensitive skin.

The final decision: Yes or no?

To be honest, baking soda is an excellent tool for the household, but not for skin care. If you want a truly effective solution for acne, it is preferable to turn to products specifically designed for this purpose, such as salicylic acid or benzoic peroxide.

But if you definitely want to experiment, do it carefully and stop immediately if you see irritation. Your skin is worth the best possible care and, unfortunately, baking soda is probably not the best you can offer it.