Make a paste: Combine 1 tablespoon of baking soda with a small amount of water or green tea to form a thick paste. The green tea is packed with antioxidants and can help soothe inflamed skin, making it an excellent addition.
Apply directly to the pimple: Using your fingertips or a clean cotton swab, apply the paste directly to the affected area. Make sure to cover the blemish completely without over-spreading it to surrounding skin.
Leave it on: Let the paste sit on the pimple for 10–15 minutes. If you leave it on too long, it can be drying, so don’t leave it overnight.
Rinse off: After the treatment time, rinse your face with lukewarm water. Apply a gentle moisturizer to prevent your skin from drying out.
Frequency:
Nana suggests using this method once per day on active pimples or acne spots, especially if you're dealing with a breakout. You can apply it up to twice a day, but always be cautious and pay attention to how your skin reacts.
Method 3: Baking Soda Face Mask for Oil Control and Deep Cleansing
Another favorite method of my nana’s is using a baking soda face mask to tackle excess oil, clogged pores, and impurities. This method provides a deeper clean than simple exfoliation and is particularly beneficial for those with oily or combination skin.
How It Works:
Baking soda works wonders for oil control because it absorbs excess oils from the skin, helping to mattify and reduce shine. It also has cleansing properties that can help purify clogged pores, leaving the skin feeling refreshed and clean. For people with acne-prone skin, this mask can help prevent breakouts by keeping the pores clear.
Step-by-Step Guide:
Create the mask: In a bowl, mix 2 tablespoons of baking soda with 2 tablespoons of honey (for moisture) and 1 tablespoon of lemon juice (for its natural astringent properties). Add a little water if necessary to form a smooth paste. Honey is a natural antibacterial agent, while lemon has brightening and pore-tightening effects.
Apply the mask: With clean fingers or a brush, apply the mask evenly to your face, avoiding the eyes and lips. Make sure to spread it evenly and gently to avoid any irritation.
Leave it on: Let the mask sit on your skin for 10-15 minutes. You may feel a slight tingling sensation as the mask works, which is normal.
Rinse thoroughly: After the mask has dried, rinse your face with lukewarm water and gently pat your face dry with a towel. Apply your regular moisturizer to rehydrate your skin.
Frequency:
This deep-cleansing mask can be used once a week to keep excess oil at bay and maintain clear pores. If your skin is on the drier side, feel free to use it every two weeks to avoid over-drying.
Why These Methods Work: The Science Behind Baking Soda on Your Face
Baking soda works for these skincare methods due to its mild abrasiveness, which helps exfoliate the skin, and its alkaline nature, which can help balance the skin’s pH. While it is important not to overuse baking soda (as it can be drying when used excessively), its natural properties make it a gentle yet effective tool in your skincare arsenal.
Here’s why each method is so effective:
- Exfoliation: Baking soda’s fine texture helps buff away dead skin cells, leaving your face looking brighter and smoother.
- Acne treatment: Its antibacterial properties fight acne-causing bacteria, and its oil-absorbing qualities help keep your skin from becoming overly oily.
- Deep cleansing: Baking soda’s ability to absorb oil and impurities helps purify the skin, making it ideal for those with oily or acne-prone skin.
Final Thoughts: A Little Baking Soda Goes a Long Way
These three methods are just a few of the ways my nana has used baking soda to keep her skin looking fresh and glowing. It’s a powerful, affordable, and natural option for tackling common skincare issues like dullness, acne, and oiliness.
However, as with all skincare ingredients, listen to your skin. If you have sensitive skin, you might want to start with a patch test to make sure that baking soda doesn’t irritate your skin. Additionally, always follow up with a good moisturizer to keep your skin hydrated and nourished.
Whether you’re looking for a gentle exfoliant, a spot treatment for acne, or a deep cleansing mask, baking soda is a versatile ingredient that can work wonders for your skincare routine. Give my nana’s methods a try and see if they work as well for you as they have for her!
