Did you know that you can get rid of pimples with baking soda? This versatile ingredient can be used not only for baking purposes. It’s also an antacid and can be used to treat colds and the flu. It can also whiten your teeth and treat insect bites and itchy skin. There are countless uses for baking soda, but what’s most interesting about it is the fact that it can get rid of pimples and help soften the skin.
Getting pimples and acne is very common to a lot of people. For most people, genes are to blame. But in my experience, there are also other factors that cause acne. Stress, hormones, poor sleeping habits, smoking, unhealthy diet, and pollution are the things that contribute to my pimple problem.
Another thing I’ve noticed is that people with oily skin are more susceptible to breakouts. The reason behind this is that sebum can clog the hair follicles. However, pores can also become clogged with dirt and dead skin cells which can lead to breakouts. No one is completely safe from pimples, unless we do something to prevent or treat it.
How to get rid of pimples with Baking Soda?
If you’re currently suffering from this skin problem, I know that you would try anything to treat it. Like me, you probably have used quite a number of acne-fighting products already – including ones that have been prescribed by your dermatologist.
But there are days when these products just don’t work at all. In these cases, we usually turn to natural methods or home remedies.
Also known as sodium bicarbonate, baking soda is a common household item. Arm & Hammer Baking Soda is the most popular brand used around the world.
Baking soda is an amphoteric compound which means that it can react as a base as well as an acid. It helps neutralize pH imbalances of the skin. Did you know that when our skin’s pH level is not balanced, it can also cause acne?
Aside from being able to balance the pH level of our skin, baking soda can also help remove excess oil or sebum. It also has antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties.
BAKING SODA SPOT TREATMENT FOR ACNE
You can use baking soda instead of branded spot treatments and acne gels. This baking soda spot treatment is super cheap as you only need to use baking soda and water. It’s very easy to make and it will help dry out your pimples fast. It also helps remove excess oil or sebum from the skin.
You’ll need equal parts of baking soda and water. The amount will vary depending on the number of pimples you have. You might want to start with 1 tablespoon of baking soda and 1 tablespoon of water.
You can adjust the amount according to your needs. Combine the 2 ingredients and mix well to form a smooth paste. If you fee that the paste is too thin, then simply add a little more baking soda. Or if it’s too thick, then add a little more water.
Cleanse your face as usual and pat dry using a clean towel. Apply the baking soda spot treatment paste on all your pimples or acne and let it sit for 10 to 15 minutes. Rinse off with water. Please note that this treatment might sting, especially if you have large pimples.
You want the baking soda to dry out your pimples and not your skin. So, after using this spot treatment, remember to moisturize your skin as you normally would.
BAKING SODA FACIAL MASKS TO GET RID OF PIMPLES
These homemade facial masks can help get rid of your pimples fast. With regular use, your skin will become clear in no time. Remember to always moisturize your face after using these face masks.
Baking Soda and Water
The recipe for the baking soda spot treatment can also be used for a face mask. You can follow the same steps above. But instead of applying the mixture just over your pimples, you can apply it to the whole face.
You can use gentle, circular motions to spread the paste on your face. Just make sure to avoid the lip and eye area where the skin is thin and more sensitive.
Leave it on for about 10 to 15 minutes. If you have sensitive skin or dry skin, then you might want to rinse it off after 10 minutes or less. Otherwise, you can leave it on for 15 minutes before rinsing off.
Baking Soda, Water and Fresh Lemon Juice
You can also add a teaspoon of fresh lemon juice to the baking soda mixture. You can use 3 tablespoons of baking soda and 3 tablespoons of water. After combining and mixing the 2 ingredients, simply stir in the lemon juice. If the amount of the mixture is not enough to cover your entire face, then simply add a little more of each ingredient until you reach the desired amount.
Apply a light layer of the facial mask all over your clean face and let it sit for 10 to 15 minutes. Then rinse it with water.
Baking Soda, Water and Fresh Orange Juice
Another version of baking soda facial mask uses orange juice instead of water. Orange juice can help tighten and minimize the pores. It controls oil and aids in clearing acne and pimples.
In a small bowl, combine 1 tablespoon of baking soda and 1 teaspoon of fresh orange juice. Stir the 2 ingredients together. You will notice that it will start to fizz. Wait until the fizzing stops before spreading the mixture on your face.
Apply a light layer of the mixture all over your clean face. You can also massage it gently in circular motions to exfoliate the skin and get rid of dirt, oil, and dead skin cells. Do not scrub too hard! After 10 to 15 minutes, rinse off with water.
Depending on your skin type and sensitivity, you may use any of these DIY face masks as often as 3 times a week. Those with sensitive skin might want to do this once a week only.
That is, if you don’t experience any negative side effects during the patch test. Your skin may also sting or become red after application. This should fade after a while, but if you’re not comfortable with it then you should stop using these masks.
USE BAKING SODA TO EXFOLIATE
The non-toxic and inexpensive baking soda is mildly abrasive and can be used to exfoliate the skin. It can be used to get rid of dead skin cells, dirt, and oil. It can also clean the pores thoroughly.
Just use equal parts of baking soda and water to form a fine, gritty paste. You can start with 2 tbsp baking soda and 2 tbsp water, then just add more to suit your needs. You can also add a teaspoon of fresh lemon juice. The lemon juice contains citric acid which can also exfoliate the skin and help dry out pimples as well.
Cleanse your face as usual. Using small circular motions, gently massage the baking soda paste all over your still damp face. Make sure not to get any in your eyes. You should also avoid the lip and eye area.
Make sure to massage with a light hand and avoid scrubbing too hard. After a few minutes of massaging the entire face, rinse it off with water. You can also use a washcloth or sponge during the rinse. Just be gentle when doing so, otherwise, your skin might get bruised.
After drying your face, remember to apply your favorite moisturizer.
HOW TO USE BAKING SODA TO GET RID OF BLACKHEADS?
Baking soda is a powerful blackhead remover. This simple concoction can banish your blackheads and help clear up your skin fast and easily.
You’ll need 1 tbsp of baking soda and 1/4 cup of milk. In a small bowl, put the tablespoon of baking soda and gently mix in the milk. Apply the mixture on the areas affected with blackheads. Leave it on for 5 minutes then rinse off with water.
For another method of using baking soda to remove blackheads, check out this article. It also contains other methods you can use to get rid of blackheads.
USE BAKING SODA FOR BODY ACNE
If you are suffering from back acne (bacne), chest acne or acne in other parts of your body, then you can also use baking soda to get rid of them. Because it works on your face, it will also work on your body.
To use baking soda to get rid of your body acne, you will be replacing your regular bubble bath or body salt with baking soda.
Fill your bathtub with warm water as you normally would. Then, carefully pour in 1/2 cup of baking soda and mix with your hand. Soak in the tub for 15 to 20 minutes. Then rinse off in the shower.
Regularly using baking soda as a bath soak will help dry out body acne and prevent future breakouts.
TIPS AND PRECAUTIONS
- Baking soda can irritate your skin, especially if you have really sensitive skin.
- As with any skincare product, remember to perform a patch test first.
- Before using any of these baking soda treatments, do a patch test to check for allergic reactions or skin irritations.
- Do not use a treatment if you experience any negative side effects during the patch test.
- For those with very sensitive skin, you should not use baking soda regularly even if you don’t experience any negative side effects.
Make sure to thoroughly cleanse your face before using any of these baking soda treatments. You can also apply a warm towel on your face to open up the pores before applying any of these masks and treatments. This way, it will be more effective.
Always moisturize your skin after each treatment as baking soda can be very drying. Aside from possible skin irritation, it can also cause redness to those with sensitive skin.
Important: When in doubt, consult your dermatologist.
Final Words
To prevent future breakouts, maintain proper skin care routine and a healthy lifestyle. Avoid getting stressed and avoid sleeping with your makeup still on your face. Get enough restful sleep and drink plenty of water throughout the day.
The only time you should avoid drinking water is 2 hours before bedtime. Always eat a healthy and balanced diet, avoid greasy and fried foods. Avoid smoking and drinking alcohol.
Next time you go to the supermarket, try to grab a box of baking soda so you can perform the patch test as soon as you get home. Even if it doesn’t suit your skin, you can still use it for other household purposes.
But it would be much better if your skin can handle it. Who doesn’t want to get rid of pimples with baking soda? It’s very cheap and effective!
