baking soda skin whitening before and after - #17154
I am really confused about using baking soda for skin whitening. A few weeks ago, I saw my friend’s before and after pics after she used baking soda for whitening and I couldn’t believe how great her skin looked. She said she mixed it with water and applied it for like 10 minutes every day. I thought, maybe I should give it a go too! But then, I started to do some research and found a lot of mixed reviews about using baking soda for skin whitening. Some say it can brighten skin, but others warn about irritation. I tried it once for a few days and I felt a bit of tingling but not sure if it was normal. Is that how it's supposed to feel? Like, do most people see good results with baking soda skin whitening before and after usage, or is it just a gimmick? My skin is kinda sensitive, so I'm nervous about any reaction. Do you think the results people show are legit? Should I keep trying it or just stop now and find a gentler method? I really want my skin to glow but don’t wanna mess it up ya know? Any advice or experiences with baking soda for skin whitening would be super helpful!
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Doctors' responses
Using baking soda for skin whitening can be a mixed bag, especially for people with sensitive skin. Let’s break it down: Baking soda, or sodium bicarbonate, is an alkaline substance with a pH higher than skin’s natural pH which ranges from 4.5 to 5.5. When you apply something alkaline like baking soda, it can disrupt the skin’s acid mantle, potentially leading to irritation, redness and sensitivity. The tingling you felt might be an early sign of irritation. While some anecdotal stories might show impressive before-and-after pictures, it’s important to approach these with caution. Immediate changes might be due to superficial removal of dead skin cells acting more like a scrub, rather than a long-term solution for skin lightening. For someone with sensitive skin, the risk of irritation is higher and repeated use might lead to more significant damage like dryness, breakouts, or even prolonged sensitivity responses. If you’re looking to brighten your skin safely, consider alternatives like vitamin C serums, niacinamide or gentle exfoliants like lactic acid, which are known for their skin-brightening and smoothing effects without the potential harshness. These are generally well-tolerated and formulated to improve skin appearance effectively but safely over time. Always do a patch test when trying a new product, especially if you have sensitive skin. If irritation persists or worsens, it’s best to consult a dermatologist who can help develop a skin regime that suits your needs and skin type. Stopping the baking soda routine might be wise, especially if you’re already feeling tingling as it may not be the best fit. Your aim for glowing skin is understandable, but always prioritize the skin’s health and safety over trends or quick fixes.
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