Is It Safe to Use Baking Soda to Treat Acne?

We all turn to home remedies and quick fixes to manage the occasional blemish. Among these, baking soda for acne is a favored choice. It’s likely one of the most common DIY solutions to zap those annoying breakouts. However, while anecdotal evidence abounds, scientific proof is lacking when it comes to baking soda’s effectiveness for acne. It’s essential to be incredibly cautious before trying this remedy, as baking soda can be harsh on the skin. It can dry out your skin and cause irritation. Nonetheless, there are safer ways to use it. Scroll down to learn how baking soda may affect your skin and how to use it more safely.

Can You Use Baking Soda for Acne? Is It Effective?

Anecdotal reports suggest that baking soda is a natural remedy effective for acne. Some believe it works as a facial cleanser and, when used consistently, may help manage excess oil. However, no scientific research has evaluated whether baking soda is indeed beneficial for acne treatment. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has not approved this popular home remedy for acne. Advocates argue that baking soda can help minimize acne depending on your skin type.

It’s said that baking soda has a drying effect on the skin, which may help shrink blemishes and reduce inflammation. Additionally, it is claimed to work in the following ways:

• Baking soda possesses anti-inflammatory properties that can soothe redness and swelling. It can help calm flare-ups and also soothe rashes, irritation, and sunburn.
• Baking soda is a useful physical exfoliant with fine particles that can dislodge dirt and dead skin cells from your pores. It’s less irritating than many chemical exfoliants while remaining effective.
• Not only does it fight acne, but it may also help reduce the appearance of acne scars and pigmentation.
• It absorbs excess oil, which can dry out pimples and blemishes, aiding in faster healing.

If you have oily or severely oily, acne-prone skin, you might consider trying baking soda. However, no scientific studies support the claim that baking soda is beneficial for acne or your skin, so use caution when applying it. Overuse or improper application may cause severe discomfort. Read on to learn more.

Are There Any Side Effects of Using Baking Soda for Acne?

Yes, there are several risks associated with applying baking soda to your skin. Anything in excess is not good, and the same goes for baking soda. If you overuse it or if it doesn’t suit your skin, the following side effects may occur:

• It can damage your skin’s protective barrier, potentially worsening acne. The skin’s pH is naturally slightly acidic, which is vital for maintaining balance. When you apply baking soda, it strips away this acidic barrier, leaving your skin vulnerable to bacteria and breakouts.
• Baking soda can cause skin irritation due to its drying effect. Applying it too often or in excess may lead to redness, rashes, breakouts, or even a burning sensation.
• It can overly dry the skin, resulting in irritation.

The natural pH of human skin ranges between 4.5 and 5.5, slightly acidic. Baking soda, with a pH of 9, is alkaline. When applied to your skin, it can strip away natural oils, leaving your skin exposed to UV rays, bacteria, and environmental damage.

Although not generally recommended, you can try some baking soda recipes to manage inflammation. Be sure to use only the recommended amount of baking soda and avoid overuse. Also, follow these recipes no more than once a week.

How to Use Baking Soda for Acne

Here are a few recipes you can try if you choose to use baking soda for acne. Remember to do a patch test before applying anything to your entire face:

1. Baking Soda and Lemon

• Ingredients:
  • 2 tablespoons baking soda
  • 2 tablespoons water
  • 1 teaspoon lemon juice
• Method:
  Mix the ingredients into a smooth paste. Apply a thin layer to your face, leave it on for 15 minutes, and then rinse with cold water. Follow with a moisturizer. Use this mask twice a week.
• Why This Works:
  Lemon juice helps control oil production and shrink pores due to its astringent properties. It also has antimicrobial properties, which may help kill acne-causing bacteria.

1. Baking Soda and Water

• Ingredients:
  • 2 tablespoons baking soda
  • 1-2 tablespoons water (adjust as needed)
• Method:
  Mix baking soda with water to form a paste. Apply it to affected areas and leave it on for 10-15 minutes, then rinse with cold water. Follow with a moisturizer. Use twice a week.

1. Baking Soda and Apple Cider Vinegar

• Ingredients:
  • 1 tablespoon baking soda
  • 1 tablespoon water
  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
• Method:
  Dilute apple cider vinegar with water, mix it with baking soda, and apply to affected areas. Leave on for 10-15 minutes, then rinse with cold water. Follow up with a moisturizer. Use twice weekly.

1. Baking Soda and Honey

• Ingredients:
  • 1 tablespoon pure honey
  • 1 tablespoon baking soda
• Method:
  Combine the ingredients, apply to your face, and leave on for 5 minutes. Rinse with cold water and follow with a moisturizer.

Remember, while baking soda can provide temporary relief, it’s not a substitute for professional acne treatments. Always consult a dermatologist for severe cases.