Have you seen the viral beauty hack claiming baking soda can take years off your appearance? It’s sparked a wave of interest, with some saying it’s a budget-friendly secret to youthful skin. But is there any truth to it—and more importantly, is it safe?
Before you start using baking soda on your face, it’s important to separate helpful habits from hype. While baking soda (sodium bicarbonate) has real uses in health and household care, its role in skincare is more complex than many online tips suggest.
In this article, we’ll take a closer look at how baking soda interacts with your skin, what dermatologists say about its use, and safer ways to support healthy, youthful-looking skin naturally.
What Baking Soda Can (and Can’t) Do for Your Skin
Baking soda is a naturally alkaline compound, known for its ability to neutralize odors, clean surfaces, and soothe insect bites. In skincare, it’s often promoted as an exfoliant or a remedy for acne and dullness.
However, experts caution that using it regularly on your face can do more harm than good.
The Potential Benefits
Baking soda’s gritty texture may help remove dead skin cells, and its alkalinity can temporarily reduce oiliness. Some people use it as a spot treatment for breakouts or to brighten the appearance of skin.
Short-term effects may include:
- Mild exfoliation
- Temporary feeling of smoothness
- A “clean” sensation on oily skin
But Here’s the Catch
The skin’s natural barrier is slightly acidic, with a pH around 4.5 to 5.5. Baking soda, on the other hand, has a pH of about 9. Using it regularly can disrupt your skin’s protective barrier, leaving it more prone to:
- Redness or irritation
- Dryness or peeling
- Sensitivity to sunlight or skincare products
- Breakouts due to inflammation
According to the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD), using harsh or alkaline substances on your skin may accelerate signs of aging—not prevent them.
“When the skin’s barrier is damaged, it can appear dull, dehydrated, or irritated—which can actually make you look older, not younger,” says Dr. Michele Green, a board-certified dermatologist in New York.
Is Baking Soda Ever Safe for Skin Use?
While baking soda isn’t recommended for regular facial use, it may be helpful in occasional, specific situations:
- As a foot soak to soften calluses
- For deodorizing underarms or shoes (not as a daily skin product)
- To soothe insect bites or mild itching—mix with water into a paste
If you do try it on your skin, always:
- Do a patch test on your arm first
- Use it no more than once every 2–3 weeks
- Follow with a gentle, pH-balanced moisturizer
Still, for facial skincare—especially if your goal is to look younger—there are better, safer options.
5 Evidence-Backed Ways to Support Youthful Skin
Want to keep your skin glowing and firm without expensive treatments or risky DIY hacks? Here are 5 dermatologist-approved methods backed by research:
1. Use Sunscreen Every Day
Sun exposure is the #1 cause of premature aging. UVA rays break down collagen, leading to wrinkles and age spots.
Choose:
- Broad-spectrum SPF 30+
- Non-comedogenic and fragrance-free formulas
- Daily application, even on cloudy days
2. Hydrate Inside and Out
Well-hydrated skin looks plumper and more youthful.
Tips:
- Drink at least 8 cups of water per day
- Use moisturizers with hyaluronic acid, glycerin, or ceramides
- Consider a humidifier in dry environments
3. Eat Antioxidant-Rich Foods
What you eat shows up on your skin. Antioxidants help fight oxidative stress, which contributes to aging.
Great choices include:
- Berries (blueberries, strawberries)
- Leafy greens (spinach, kale)
- Nuts and seeds
- Green tea
4. Sleep and Stress Less
Your body repairs skin while you sleep. Chronic stress and lack of rest may trigger dullness, breakouts, and under-eye circles.
Try:
- Aiming for 7–8 hours of sleep nightly
- Relaxation practices like walking, journaling, or light stretching
- Limiting screen time before bed
5. Gentle Exfoliation (the Safe Way)
While baking soda is not ideal, gentle exfoliants can improve texture and brightness.
Look for:
- Alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs) like lactic acid or glycolic acid
- Beta hydroxy acids (BHAs) for oily or acne-prone skin
- Products labeled as “pH balanced” and “dermatologist tested”
Start slow—once or twice a week—and always wear sunscreen afterward, as exfoliated skin is more sensitive to sunlight.
The Bottom Line: Be Cautious With DIY Skin Hacks
Baking soda is a powerful ingredient—for cleaning your kitchen. But when it comes to your face, using it as a beauty solution may cause more harm than good.
If your goal is younger-looking skin, the most effective (and skin-friendly) approaches are those supported by science: protect your skin from the sun, nourish it from the inside out, and choose gentle, proven skincare products.
Instead of chasing a quick fix, think long-term. Your skin will thank you for it.
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For more wellness-backed health and beauty advice, explore more on our site today.
*Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not substitute professional medical advice. Consult your doctor or dermatologist before making changes to your skincare or health routine.
