baking soda and lemon for skin - #18847
I am just trying to figure out if using something like baking soda and lemon for skin issues is actually a good idea or if it's just a myth. Last week, I started noticing this weird dryness and some patches on my face, totally not cute. A friend mentioned that baking soda and lemon for skin might help brighten things up and get rid of dead skin. So, I mixed a bit of baking soda and lemon juice, thinking it would be like a natural scrub or something. The first time I tried it, my skin had this tingling feeling, which felt kinda nice, but then I got nervous, like is this too harsh? I've read that baking soda can mess with your skin's pH balance, which sounds bad, right? Plus, lemon juice is acidic, so is baking soda and lemon for skin really safe? I mean, I don't want to end up worse off! Should I be worried about irritation? Has anyone else had success with baking soda and lemon for skin treatments? Maybe there’s a better way to tackle dryness without risking my face? Any advice would be greatly appreciated!
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Doctors' responses
Using baking soda and lemon on your skin is not generally recommended, as both can disrupt the natural pH balance, potentially leading to irritation or worse skin issues. Your skin has a slightly acidic pH level, around 4.5 to 5.5, that helps protect against bacteria and other environmental factors. While lemon juice is highly acidic, the pH of baking soda is highly alkaline – when combined, they can indeed harm your skin’s natural barrier. What you felt as tingling may actually be the onset of irritation, which is your skin’s way of signalling distress. For those with sensitive skin, this can lead to increased dryness, redness, or even hypersensitivity in the skin. To safely and effectively address dryness, opt for a gentle cleanser and ensure you’re using a good moisturizer that suits your skin type. Look for products that contain hydrating ingredients like hyaluronic acid, which helps retain skin moisture, and avoid over-exfoliating, which can aggravate dryness. If you’re keen on home remedies, aloe vera or honey can be more gentle and moisturizing for your skin. Since you’ve already experienced unwanted dryness and patchiness, it might be a good idea to give your skin a break from potential irritants and focus on restoring its natural balance. Should the irritation continue or worsen, it would be smart to consult a dermatologist for personalized advice. Remember, while DIY treatments can be appealing, they can sometimes do more harm than good if not thoroughly understood. Prioritize gentle, hydrating, and pH-balanced skincare to prevent exacerbation of current issues.
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