can we apply baking soda on face - #18050
I am struggling with some skin issues and have been hearing a lot about using baking soda for face treatments. I started breaking out a few weeks ago, and it's been so frustrating. I tried a lot of over-the-counter products, but nothing seems to work. Then I came across this idea of using baking soda, like, can we apply baking soda on face? My friend swears by it, says it helps with her acne and makes her skin super smooth. I've read mixed stuff online though. Some people say it can be really harsh and drying on the skin, while others rave about its benefits. I've got sensitive skin too, so I’m scared of making it worse. If we can apply baking soda on face, how often should I do it? Is it safe? And what’s the best way to use it? Just mix it with water and slap it on? Or should I maybe do a patch test first? I'm just unsure if this is worth it or if I might regret it later. And, does anyone have tips on what to mix it with or how long to leave it on? Help!
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Doctors' responses
Applying baking soda on your face can be a bit of a risk, especially if you’ve got sensitive skin or are prone to breakouts. Baking soda is quite alkaline, with a pH of around 8-9, which can disrupt the natural pH balance of your skin, normally around 4.5-5.5. This disruption can indeed cause dryness, irritation, and can lead to overproduction of oil as your skin tries to compensate. For those with sensitive skin, this might actually make things worse by exacerbating irritation or leading to further breakouts. If you do decide to use baking soda, you should definitely start with a patch test first. Apply a small amount mixed with water inside your wrist or behind your ear and wait 24 hours to see if there’s any reaction. If you see redness or feel a burning sensation, it’s a no-go. If not, and you still want to try it, keep it really minimal. Mixing it with water and using it as a gentle scrub once a week could be a starting point, but be extremely gentle and don’t leave it on for more than a couple of minutes. Rinse it off thoroughly and follow up with a good moisturizer. However, it might be worth speaking to a dermatologist or trying other less risky, more skin-friendly options like products with salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide, which are known to help with acne. These are formulated to work with your skin’s natural chemistry and can generally be more effective and safer than an untested home remedy. Ultimately, considering your sensitive skin and the mixed results you’ve read about, it’s safer to take a cautious approach. Your dermatologist can provide personalized advice that fits your specific skin needs.
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