Baking soda is a common household item, recognized for its uses in baking and cleaning. It has also become a subject of discussion in skincare, with many exploring its potential applications. However, its effects on the skin are complex and often misunderstood. Understanding its chemical characteristics and how they interact with the skin’s natural biology is important before considering its use.
How Baking Soda Interacts with Skin
The skin maintains a slightly acidic surface, a protective layer known as the acid mantle. This acid mantle defends against harmful bacteria and environmental stressors. Baking soda, in contrast, is an alkaline substance with a pH around 8.3 to 9.5.
Applying an alkaline substance like baking soda to the skin can disrupt this delicate acidic balance. This shift in pH can compromise the skin’s barrier function, which retains moisture and protects against external irritants. Baking soda also possesses a crystalline structure, making it abrasive. When used as a scrub, this abrasive quality can lead to physical exfoliation.
Common Misconceptions and Uses
Baking soda has gained popularity as a do-it-yourself remedy for various skin issues, leading to common misconceptions about its benefits. Many believe it can treat acne due to its purported drying and antibacterial properties. It is also frequently used as a physical exfoliant to clear blackheads, owing to its abrasive texture.
Other popular claims include its use for skin whitening, controlling body odor, and soothing insect bites. While baking soda can temporarily neutralize odors, its application for other skin concerns often stems from a misunderstanding of its chemical interaction with the skin. The drying effect perceived as beneficial for acne can lead to further irritation. Its abrasive nature, while seemingly effective for exfoliation, can be too harsh for the delicate skin barrier.
Potential Harmful Effects on Skin
The alkaline nature of baking soda can lead to adverse reactions when applied to the skin. It disrupts the skin’s natural acid mantle, weakening its protective barrier. This disruption can result in increased dryness, redness, and irritation.
Regular use can exacerbate existing skin conditions such as eczema, rosacea, and acne. For individuals with these conditions, a compromised skin barrier makes them more susceptible to inflammation and flare-ups. The abrasive particles can also cause micro-tears in the skin, further compromising its integrity and potentially leading to increased sensitivity to environmental factors and sun exposure. This repeated damage can lead to long-term issues, making the skin more vulnerable to infection and hindering its natural repair processes.
Expert Recommendations for Skin Health
Maintaining healthy skin involves using products that respect its natural balance and barrier function. Dermatologists recommend gentle, pH-balanced skincare products, particularly cleansers that match the skin’s natural acidic pH. These products help preserve the acid mantle and support the skin’s ability to protect itself.
For specific skin concerns, professional guidance from a dermatologist is advisable. For acne, ingredients like salicylic acid, benzoyl peroxide, or alpha hydroxy acids such as glycolic or lactic acid are recommended. For dry skin, hydrating ingredients like hyaluronic acid, ceramides, niacinamide, and glycerin are beneficial for restoring moisture and strengthening the skin barrier. Gentle physical exfoliants with fine, rounded particles or chemical exfoliants like lactic acid or polyhydroxy acids (PHAs) are safer alternatives for resurfacing the skin.