My Nana Swears by Applying Baking Soda to Her Face: Here’s Her 3 Methods and How They Work
If you've ever spent time with your grandmother, you know she’s probably a wealth of old-fashioned wisdom and beauty secrets. My nana is no exception, and one of her top skincare hacks is something that might surprise you—baking soda. She swears by it and has been using it for years to keep her skin looking youthful and glowing.
Baking soda, a common kitchen staple, has been used for a variety of beauty purposes. It’s an effective natural exfoliant, can help balance pH levels, and even tackle acne and other skin concerns. My nana’s methods have been passed down through generations, and they’re simple, easy, and inexpensive.
In this article, I’ll walk you through the three main methods my nana uses to apply baking soda to her face, and explain why they work so effectively. Whether you're looking for smoother skin, acne relief, or a natural glow, these methods will surely become part of your skincare routine.
Method 1: Baking Soda as a Gentle Exfoliator
One of the most popular ways to use baking soda on the face is as a gentle exfoliant. Over time, our skin collects dead cells that can cause dullness and clogged pores. Exfoliating helps to remove this buildup, allowing your skin to regenerate and feel softer.
How It Works:
Baking soda is mildly abrasive, making it a perfect scrub to slough off dead skin cells without being too harsh. It also has alkaline properties, which can help balance the skin's pH, making it a great option for people with oily or combination skin. By exfoliating, you remove the top layer of dead skin, which also allows for better absorption of moisturizers and other skincare products.
Step-by-Step Guide:
Create the paste: In a small bowl, mix 2 tablespoons of baking soda with a few drops of water until you form a thick paste. If you prefer, you can use a gentle oil, like olive oil, to make the paste smoother and more moisturizing.
Apply to the face: Gently massage the paste onto your face in circular motions. Focus on areas where your skin feels rough or where you have dry patches. Avoid the delicate eye area.
Let it sit: After massaging for 1–2 minutes, let the paste sit for 1-2 more minutes to give the baking soda time to do its work. It will soften and brighten the skin.
Rinse thoroughly: Wash your face with lukewarm water to remove the paste. Pat your face dry with a clean towel, and apply a moisturizer to lock in hydration.
Frequency:
My nana recommends using this exfoliating method 1-2 times per week. Over-exfoliating can lead to irritation, so it's important to avoid using it daily.
Method 2: Baking Soda for Acne and Pimples
Acne and pimples are common skincare concerns, and baking soda is often used as a spot treatment to target individual breakouts. Its natural antibacterial properties can help kill the bacteria that cause acne, while its alkaline nature balances the skin's pH and absorbs excess oil.
How It Works:
Baking soda acts as an effective treatment for acne because it helps to dry out pimples and reduce inflammation. It’s also gentle enough to avoid irritating the skin, which is key when dealing with acne-prone skin. By absorbing oil and neutralizing acidity, baking soda can prevent new breakouts from forming.
Step-by-Step Guide:
