Baking soda is one of those pantry staples that can be prescribed for a wide array of home remedies. Some people swear that bak is the best way to whiten teeth at home, while others preach about its benefits as a homemade cleaning product.
Since baking powder is so good at lifting dirt and stains from our teeth and furniture, why not try to treat acne with it, too? Even if you might think that it’s a good natural skin solution, most dermatologists don’t recommend putting it on your skin.
How Baking Soda Affects Acne
One of the most important considerations of any skin treatment is how it affects your skin’s pH balance. In school, you may have learned that water-based solutions are measured on a pH scale. This scale ranges from 0 to 14; anything with a rating of seven is neutral, six and below is acidic, and seven and up is basic.
Baking soda has a pH score of around nine, which makes it extremely acidic and possibly damaging for your skin. Because of its high pH score, the baking powder could upset the natural balance of your skin, leading to irritation and more breakouts.
The Benefits of Baking Powder for Acne
If you want to focus solely on the ways baking powder could help your skin, then there are two main benefits: it absorbs oil and can be a good exfoliant. Pure baking powder is strong and powerful, so it can dry up excess oil that causes pimples and help open your pores more when you wash.
However, because pure baking powder is so strong, you should consider using a milder form of it to treat your skin problems. If you have sensitive skin, it’s best to steer clear of baking powder and other harsh products altogether.
If you decide to use baking powder for your breakouts, don’t use it every day. Experts recommend using it no more than twice a week, and you should make sure that you follow-up with a daily moisturizer that hydrates your skin and keeps it smooth.
What Are Some Other DIY Treatments?
Although the baking powder isn’t the best choice, there are lots of skin treatments you can whip up at home. Aloe vera is a good way to reduce swelling and redness on inflamed pimples, and green tea masks are nourishing to the skin.
Witch hazel and rose water are both excellent toners, and apple cider vinegar mixed with some warm water is a good way to treat scars naturally.
It’s important to talk with your doctor about your skin before you try new treatments. You don’t know how your skin will react, and you should make sure there is time between different products to avoid further irritation and breakouts.
If you can’t find a good home remedy for your skin, it’s best to see a doctor and learn more about your skin type. Different products will affect everyone differently, and a personalized treatment plan is always the best way to get rid of breakouts and keep your skin clean and clear.
