When it comes to natural skincare, few ingredients spark more debate than baking soda and coconut oil. Both are praised in online wellness spaces, DIY beauty routines, and even passed down through generations. But when it comes to skin healing—whether you’re dealing with dryness, irritation, or minor blemishes—which one actually holds up under expert advice?
Let’s explore what science says about using baking soda and coconut oil for skin healing, how to use them safely, and when it might be best to avoid them altogether.
Why People Use Baking Soda and Coconut Oil for Skin
Natural ingredients are appealing because they’re often accessible, affordable, and chemical-free. But just because something is natural doesn’t always mean it’s ideal for your skin. Here’s what makes baking soda and coconut oil popular in skincare:
- Baking Soda is known for its exfoliating and deodorizing properties. It’s used in facial scrubs, acne spot treatments, and underarm care.
- Coconut Oil is praised for its moisturizing and antibacterial effects. It’s often applied to dry skin, lips, and even as a natural remedy for small wounds or rashes.
But are they equally safe and effective for skin healing?
What Science Says About Baking Soda for Skin
Baking soda, or sodium bicarbonate, has been used for decades as a household remedy. It’s often included in homemade masks and exfoliants. But dermatologists urge caution when applying it directly to the skin.
Potential Benefits:
- Exfoliation: Baking soda has a gritty texture that can help remove dead skin cells.
- Odor control: Its alkaline properties can neutralize acidic body odor, which is why it’s often used in natural deodorants.
- Mild itch relief: A diluted baking soda bath may help relieve minor skin itching, as noted by Mayo Clinic.
Risks and Concerns:
- Disrupts skin pH: Healthy skin has a slightly acidic pH around 4.5–5.5. Baking soda’s high alkalinity (pH ~9) can strip the skin’s natural barrier, leading to dryness, irritation, and increased sensitivity.
- Not ideal for open wounds or broken skin: Experts generally advise against using baking soda on broken or inflamed skin due to its potential to cause stinging and further irritation.
Bottom line: Baking soda may have short-term use in small amounts (like for bug bites or occasional exfoliation), but it’s not recommended for regular or long-term skin healing, especially on sensitive or damaged skin.
The Case for Coconut Oil in Skin Healing
Unlike baking soda, coconut oil receives more consistent support from the dermatology community, especially for use on dry or irritated skin.
Proven Benefits:
- Moisturizes dry, cracked skin: Coconut oil is rich in fatty acids that help lock in moisture and support the skin barrier.
- Antibacterial properties: Research published in Dermatitis and other medical journals suggests that virgin coconut oil may help reduce certain strains of bacteria, such as Staphylococcus aureus, which can contribute to skin infections.
- Reduces inflammation: Coconut oil contains antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds, which may support healing in mild skin conditions like eczema or dermatitis.
Ideal Uses:
- After cleansing, as a moisturizer
- To soothe dry patches or mild rashes
- As a lip balm or to soften cuticles
- On minor scrapes, provided the area is clean and not infected
Important note: While generally safe, coconut oil may clog pores for some people, particularly those prone to acne. If you have oily or acne-prone skin, apply it sparingly and patch-test first.
When (and How) to Use Each Safely
Not all skin types respond the same way to natural ingredients. Here’s a quick guide to when it may be appropriate to use baking soda or coconut oil—and when to steer clear.
Best Uses for Baking Soda:
- Occasional use on bug bites or itchy skin (diluted in water)
- Gentle exfoliation (mixed with a few drops of water and applied once every 1–2 weeks)
- Deodorizing feet or underarms (in a diluted paste—never directly on broken skin)
Best Uses for Coconut Oil:
- Moisturizing dry, flaky, or irritated skin
- Soothing minor rashes or redness
- Softening rough elbows, knees, or hands
- Helping protect minor cuts or scrapes from dryness
What to Avoid:
- Avoid baking soda on your face daily—it’s too harsh for most complexions.
- Don’t use coconut oil over infected or deep wounds unless your healthcare provider approves.
- Never apply baking soda to sunburned or broken skin.
- If you experience any burning, itching, or rash after using either ingredient, discontinue use immediately and consult a dermatologist.
A Side-by-Side Comparison
| Feature | Baking Soda | Coconut Oil |
|---|---|---|
| Skin Type Suitability | Oily/combination (limited use) | Dry, normal, sensitive (varies) |
| Main Benefit | Mild exfoliation, odor control | Moisture, soothing, anti-inflammatory |
| Common Concern | Irritation, pH imbalance | Pore-clogging for acne-prone skin |
| Best Use | Spot exfoliation, bug bites | Full-body moisture, dry skin repair |
| Frequency | Occasionally, in small areas | Daily (if well-tolerated) |
What Dermatologists Recommend
According to sources like Harvard Health and WebMD, less is more when it comes to skincare—especially with natural ingredients. Many dermatologists support using non-comedogenic moisturizers (which coconut oil may not be for everyone) and avoiding harsh scrubs like baking soda.
If your goal is to support healing for common skin issues like dryness, minor cuts, or irritated patches, coconut oil is generally the safer and more effective choice.
If you’re dealing with acne, rashes, or chronic conditions like eczema, speak with a board-certified dermatologist for a tailored approach.
Final Thoughts
Both baking soda and coconut oil have their place in natural skincare—but they work in very different ways. While baking soda can provide occasional relief for certain minor skin concerns, it’s not ideal for healing or moisturizing. On the other hand, coconut oil is often a better choice for supporting skin healing, especially for dry or irritated skin.
Whichever you try, always patch-test first, go slow, and be sure to listen to your skin.
Have you tried either of these for your skin? Comment your experience below or share this article with someone curious about natural skincare!
*Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not substitute professional medical advice. Consult your doctor before making health changes or trying new skincare products.
