Claims that baking soda removes dark spots, wrinkles, or dark circles are not supported by good scientific evidence. In fact, using baking soda on your face can do more harm than good.
Why baking soda is not recommended for facial skin
- It’s too alkaline. Baking soda has a pH of about 8–9, while healthy skin is naturally slightly acidic (around pH 4.5–5.5).
- It can damage the skin barrier, leading to dryness, irritation, redness, and increased sensitivity.
- It won’t remove wrinkles or erase dark circles.
- For some people, irritation can actually make dark spots appear worse after the skin heals.
Better options for common skin concerns
For dark spots (hyperpigmentation):
- Daily broad-spectrum sunscreen (SPF 30 or higher)
- Ingredients such as niacinamide, vitamin C, azelaic acid, or retinoids (used appropriately)
For wrinkles:
- Sunscreen every day
- Retinoids (available by prescription or over the counter in milder forms)
- Moisturizers containing ingredients like hyaluronic acid
For dark circles:
- Get adequate sleep
- Manage allergies if present
- Use sunscreen around the eyes
- Some products with caffeine or retinol may help certain types of dark circles, depending on the cause
If you have persistent or severe skin concerns, a dermatologist can recommend treatments that are more likely to be effective and safe.
If your goal is dark spots, wrinkles, or dark circles, tell me which one concerns you most, and I can suggest evidence-based options.
