Baking Soda in Ayurveda [6 Recipes] The Benefits Of Baking Soda For Skin

Baking soda in Ayurveda has been widely used since ages as a natural, chemical-free, anti-bacterial agent to tackle a myriad range of skin problems. It works as an effective exfoliator removing dry, dead skin that can cause acne, blackheads, and other skin problems.

What Is Baking Soda?

Baking soda, also known as sodium bicarbonate is an odorless crystalline white solid that has many industrial, food, and health uses. It is found in its natural state, dissolved in mineral springs around the world, making it easily available and cost-effective.

Uses Of Baking Soda For Skin

Acne Baking soda helps prevent acne and lighten acne scars as its antimicrobial and antibacterial properties cure underlying fungal infections. Due to its alkaline nature, baking soda helps correct the pH imbalances of the skin, which is one of the reasons behind the formation of acne.

Exfoliator Baking soda falls under the category of physical exfoliants and its fine granule structure removes dead skin cells without causing excessive irritation.

Blackheads Baking soda antibacterial and antifungal properties treat infections that cause blackheads and loosen the skin around them to enable easy extraction.

Cleanser Baking soda is alkaline, which helps soften the sebum and debris on the face. It also clears and opens up pores and absorbs excess oil preventing clogging of pores.

Other Skin Conditions A paste made of baking soda in water, when dabbed on insect bites, allergic rashes, and skin exposed to poison oak/ivy reduces discomfort.

Ways To Use Baking Soda in Ayurveda For Skin Problems

Basic Baking Soda Mask

Combine 1 and 1/2 tbsp baking soda with 1 tbsp water into a paste and gently rub into the skin. Keep on for 5-10 mins, rinse with lukewarm water, pat dry and apply a moisturizer.

Baking Soda Oatmeal Mask

Combine 2 tsp. of oatmeal with 1 tsp. of baking soda, stir until mixed. Add water drop by drop, until it forms a paste. Apply to face gently rubbing in a circular motion. Rinse well with lukewarm water after 5-10 mins, pat dry and moisturize.

Baking Soda Coconut Oil Mask

Mix baking soda and coconut oil in a 1:1 ratio. Apply generously over acne or scarred skin and rinse with lukewarm water after 5-10 mins.

Baking Soda Orange Juice Mask

Mix 1 tbsp of baking soda with 1 tbsp of no-pulp orange juice and apply it on your face for 20 mins. Rinse clean, pat dry, and moisturize. You can use lemon or grapefruit juice if orange juice is not available.

Baking Soda Honey Mask

Mix 2 tbsp of baking soda, 2 Tsp of honey, and 1 tbsp of lemon juice or orange juice. Wash your face and pat it dry. Put the mixture on your face and wait for 15 minutes. Then rinse, pat dry and moisturize.

Baking Soda Tea Tree Oil Mask

Mix 1/3 cup baking soda, 1 tbsp lemon or orange juice, and 2 tbsp of tea tree oil and apply on your face for about 10 minutes. Rinse, dry gently, and moisturize.

Precautions

Baking soda in Ayurveda is generally safe and is completely non-toxic but take the following precautions when using it:

• Avoid applying it directly to the raw or tender skin (for example: after shaving) because this will cause a temporary stinging or burning sensation.
• Avoid baking soda baths if you have any open blisters, wounds, burns, or cracked skin.
• Never use a baking soda face mask, if you have sunburn on your face.
• Check sensitivity before directly applying on the face. Use a small (fingertip) portion and apply it on your forearm. If you notice a burning or stinging sensation within 5 minutes wash off with water immediately.
• Avoid contact with eyes. Rinse with cold water immediately if you do get some in your eyes.

References:  Health Guidance For Better Health The skin surface pH and its different influence on the development of acne lesion according to gender and age- S. H. Youn1,*, C. W. Choi2, J. W. Choi1

by Dipti Mothay