Its appeal is easy to understand. It’s available in virtually every pantry, is very cheap, and seems to produce visible results in carefully edited before-and-after videos. However, this trend often overlooks the differences between facial skin and that of other areas of the body, and how its delicate balance can easily be disrupted.
Hidden Risks: Why Most Dermatologists Advise Caution:
The skin maintains a slightly acidic pH, between 4.5 and 5.5. This acid mantle supports the skin barrier, helps retain moisture, maintains a balance of beneficial microbes, and protects against environmental stressors. The high pH of baking soda can temporarily increase the acidity level, weakening the barrier over time.
The grainy texture also acts as a physical exfoliant. While gentle exfoliation can be beneficial, the particles are irregular and can create micro-tears on the surface, especially with repeated rubbing. This combination often leads to dryness, tightness, increased sensitivity, redness, and, in some cases, worsening breakouts, as the compromised skin barrier struggles to protect itself.
