Using Baking Soda on the Face: What It Can and Can’t Do
Baking soda is often promoted online as a remedy for dark spots, wrinkles, and dark circles, but there is limited scientific evidence that it can remove these concerns. In fact, using it incorrectly may irritate the skin.
Why people use baking soda
Baking soda (sodium bicarbonate) is mildly abrasive and alkaline, so some people use it as a scrub or cleanser. It may temporarily make skin feel smoother by removing surface buildup.
Potential risks
Your skin has a natural slightly acidic barrier that helps protect it. Baking soda is alkaline and can:
- Disrupt the skin barrier
- Cause dryness or irritation
- Trigger redness or sensitivity
- Make some pigmentation problems worse after irritation
Safer ways to target common concerns
Dark spots
Helpful ingredients with better evidence include:
- Sunscreen (daily SPF 30+) to prevent spots from getting darker
- Vitamin C
- Niacinamide
- Retinoids
- Azelaic acid
Wrinkles
Options that may help:
- Daily sunscreen
- Retinoids (such as retinol products)
- Moisturizers containing ingredients like hyaluronic acid
- Consistent skincare over time
Dark circles
Dark circles can be caused by:
- Genetics
- Thin under-eye skin
- Lack of sleep
- Allergies
- Shadowing from facial structure
Helpful steps:
- Get adequate sleep
- Treat allergies if present
- Use a gentle moisturizer around the eyes
- Wear sunscreen to prevent pigmentation
