Baking soda (sodium bicarbonate) is a common kitchen staple that many people also try to use in homemade skincare routines. Its popularity comes from claims that it can exfoliate skin, unclog pores, and even help with acne or brightening. But before you mix it into a face mask, it’s important to understand how it affects your skin and how to use it safely.
🌿 What Is Baking Soda?
Baking soda is a white crystalline powder also called sodium bicarbonate. It’s slightly alkaline — meaning it has a higher pH than normal skin — and is found in many household products, from baking to cleaning.
Your facial skin naturally has a slightly acidic pH, around 4.5–5.5, which forms a protective barrier against bacteria and environmental stressors. When an alkaline substance like baking soda is applied, it can temporarily raise the skin’s pH, which might disrupt this protective layer.
