Baking Soda for Skincare: Benefits, Risks, and What You Should Know

 

What Exactly Is Baking Soda and Why Does It Come Up in Skincare?

Baking soda, or sodium bicarbonate, is a naturally occurring mineral compound you probably already have in your pantry for baking or cleaning. In skincare circles, people have long experimented with it as a mild physical exfoliant because its fine, gritty texture can help slough away dead skin cells on the surface. Some also like that it’s inexpensive, readily available, and feels like a quick DIY fix.

The idea is appealing — a single pantry item that might brighten the look of skin without fancy products. Yet, as with any home remedy, results depend heavily on how it’s used and your individual skin type.