Baking soda in skin care

Baking soda (sodium bicarbonate), a chemical compound with the formula NaHCO3, is probably most known for its use in the kitchen as a raising agent for cakes and bread. But baking soda also has many applications in the world of cosmetics. The ancient Egyptians used natron (a naturally occurring mixture of sodium carbonate and sodium bicarbonate) as a cleaning agent like soap. Baking soda helps regulate pH by neutralizing either an acidic or alkaline substance. Beyond that it also works as a buffer, which means it lessens further changes in the pH balance. This dual capability of neutralizing and buffering has made it a useful ingredient in beauty products. 

Personal care uses of baking soda:

1. Tooth paste and mouth wash

Baking soda is known to work as a teeth whitening agent. You can apply the baking soda directly on to your toothbrush and brush your teeth as usual, or put your regular toothpaste on your brush and add baking soda on top. Brush your teeth with this mix 2-3 days to make them whiter. Sodium bicarbonate is an ingredient in many professional whitening toothpastes.

2. Shampoo

Add baking soda to your regular shampoo to help remove buildup from conditioners, sprays, and other hair care products. Baking soda can also be used instead of shampoo ('no poo' method) or as a dry shampoo. 

3. Deodorant

Baking soda helps neutralize body odors. It is used in DIY deodorants. 

4. Body exfoliant

Baking soda is a gentle enough to use everyday as an exfoliant for you face and body. Just create a paste of 3 parts baking soda and 1 part water. Baking soda is often used in solid scrub bars. 

5. Face wash

A diluted solution of baking soda can be used as a facial wash. It helps to remove oil's build-up and residue from beauty products. Additionally you can use it to clean your make-up brushes. Just mix 1 teaspoon of baking soda with 1 cup water. Soak your brushes i this solution, rinse them with water and let them dry. 

6. Bath bombs 

Sodium bicarbonate is an important ingredient in bath bombs. You can also just add baking soda directly to warm bath water for silky smooth skin. 

7. Nail care

You can clean fingernails by scrubbing them with a nailbrush dipped in baking soda. It will not only clean your nails, but also soften cuticles. 

8. Feet soak

Pamper your feet with a baking soda and sea salt feet soak. This will soften the skin on your feet.