Baking soda is a common household ingredient, but that does not make it a safe or effective facial treatment. Claims that a baking-soda mask can erase dark spots, wrinkles, and under-eye circles in seven minutes are not supported by good evidence.
In fact, applying baking soda directly to the face can irritate the skin because its pH is much higher than the skin’s natural mildly acidic environment.
If your goal is brighter, smoother-looking skin, a gentle skincare routine is a safer approach.
A Simple 7-Minute Skincare Routine
What You Need
- Gentle fragrance-free cleanser
- Fragrance-free moisturizer
- Broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher
- Optional: a product containing niacinamide or azelaic acid for uneven pigmentation
Step 1: Cleanse Gently
Wash your face with lukewarm water and a mild cleanser.
Use your fingertips rather than a rough cloth or scrub.
Step 2: Rinse Thoroughly
Remove all cleanser and gently pat your face dry.
Don’t rub the skin, particularly around the eyes.
Step 3: Apply a Moisturizer
Apply a thin layer of moisturizer while the skin is still slightly hydrated.
Ingredients such as glycerin, ceramides, and hyaluronic acid can help support the skin barrier and reduce the appearance of dryness.
Step 4: Address Dark Spots Carefully
For persistent uneven pigmentation, a properly formulated skincare product containing niacinamide or azelaic acidmay be more appropriate than a kitchen ingredient.
Introduce one active ingredient at a time and stop if significant irritation develops.
Step 5: Protect Your Skin From the Sun
Apply broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher during the day.
Sun exposure can worsen pigmentation and contributes to premature skin aging, so sunscreen is one of the most important steps when trying to improve the appearance of dark spots.
Why Baking Soda Isn’t a Good Choice
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