Baking soda is a versatile ingredient that’s often found in the kitchen, but it also has many beauty applications. When used correctly, it can be a great addition to your skincare routine. Baking soda has mild exfoliating properties, can help balance your skin’s pH, and is known for its ability to fight acne. Here are three ways to safely apply baking soda on your face for glowing, healthy skin.

1. Baking Soda Face Scrub

Purpose: Exfoliate dead skin cells, unclog pores, and brighten the complexion.

Ingredients:

• 1 tablespoon of baking soda

• 1 tablespoon of water (or more if needed)

Instructions:

1. Mix: In a small bowl, combine the baking soda with water to form a thick paste. Adjust the water quantity as needed to achieve the right consistency.

2. Apply: Gently massage the paste onto your face in circular motions, focusing on areas that need exfoliation, such as the nose, chin, and forehead. Be gentle to avoid irritation.

3. Rinse: After scrubbing for about 1-2 minutes, rinse your face thoroughly with lukewarm water. Pat your skin dry with a soft towel.

4. Moisturize: Follow up with a good moisturizer to hydrate your skin, as baking soda can be slightly drying.

Frequency: Use this scrub once or twice a week, depending on your skin’s sensitivity.

2. Baking Soda and Honey Mask

Purpose: Soothe the skin, reduce redness, and fight acne with the antibacterial properties of honey combined with the exfoliating effect of baking soda.

Ingredients:

• 1 tablespoon of baking soda

• 1 tablespoon of raw honey

Instructions:

1. Mix: Combine the baking soda and honey in a bowl, stirring until you get a smooth paste.

2. Apply: Spread the mixture evenly over your face, avoiding the delicate eye area. You can use your fingers or a clean brush.

3. Let It Sit: Allow the mask to sit for 10-15 minutes. During this time, the honey will work to soothe and moisturize your skin while the baking soda gently exfoliates.

4. Rinse: Rinse off the mask with lukewarm water, gently massaging your skin as you do so. Pat your face dry with a towel.

5. Moisturize: Apply your favorite moisturizer to lock in hydration.

Frequency: Use this mask once a week to keep your skin soft, clear, and hydrated.

3. Baking Soda Spot Treatment

Purpose: Target acne and pimples by drying them out and reducing inflammation.

Ingredients:

• 1 teaspoon of baking soda

• A few drops of water

Instructions:

1. Mix: In a small bowl, mix the baking soda with just enough water to form a thick paste.

2. Apply: Using a cotton swab or your fingertip, apply the paste directly to the pimple or acne spot. Make sure the affected area is clean before application.

3. Let It Sit: Leave the paste on the spot for 10-15 minutes, or until it dries completely.

4. Rinse: Gently rinse off the baking soda with warm water, being careful not to rub the area too harshly.

5. Moisturize: Follow up with a non-comedogenic moisturizer to prevent the skin from drying out.

Frequency: Use this spot treatment as needed, but no more than once a day to avoid irritation.

Tips for Using Baking Soda on Your Face

• Patch Test: Before applying baking soda to your entire face, do a patch test on a small area of your skin to check for any adverse reactions.

• Moisturize: Always follow up with a good moisturizer after using baking soda, as it can be drying to the skin.

• Avoid Overuse: Baking soda is slightly abrasive and can disrupt the natural pH balance of your skin. Use it sparingly and avoid overuse, especially if you have sensitive skin.

• Sun Protection: Baking soda can make your skin more sensitive to the sun. Be sure to apply sunscreen if you’re going outside after using baking soda on your face.

Conclusion

Baking soda can be a beneficial addition to your skincare routine when used properly. Whether you’re looking to exfoliate, treat acne, or create a soothing face mask, these three methods offer simple and effective ways to apply baking soda on your face. Remember to use it cautiously, and always moisturize afterward to keep your skin balanced and hydrated.