Baking soda is a common household item that is sometimes used as a DIY skincare product. However, using baking soda on the face can have negative side effects. Here are some of the potential negative effects of using baking soda on the face:
Negative effects:
- Overdrying of the skin
- Early onset of wrinkles
- Worsened acne breakouts
- Skin irritation and inflammation
- Disruption of the skins natural pH balance
- Stripping of the skins natural oils
- Dry, itchy, and irritated skin
These negative effects can leave the skin vulnerable to infection and breakouts. Baking soda can also cause armpit rashes, redness, and burning for some people when used in homemade or natural deodorants. Baking soda has a pH level of 9, which is alkaline on the pH scale and can dry out the skin and cause irritation. The skin is naturally acidic with a pH of 4.5 to 5.5, and disrupting this pH acid mantle can have damaging side effects, specifically to the skin.
It is important to note that there is little research on baking sodas effects on the skin specifically, and dermatologists generally do not recommend using baking soda as a facial scrub, facial cleanser, face mask, or exfoliant. If you experience skin irritation or other problems, it is recommended to consult a doctor rather than relying on DIY ideas.
