Is Baking Soda Safe for Facial Skincare? Baking soda is a common household ingredient found in kitchens around the world. Because it is inexpensive and readily available, many people have experimented with using it as a homemade facial scrub to brighten dull skin, smooth rough patches, or remove dead skin cells. However, dermatologists generally do not recommend using baking soda as part of a regular facial skincare routine . Its naturally alkaline pH can disrupt the skin's protective barrier, increasing the risk of dryness, irritation, and sensitivity. Before trying this DIY beauty trend, it's important to understand both the potential benefits and the possible drawbacks. What Is Baking Soda? Baking soda, also known as sodium bicarbonate , is a fine white powder commonly used in baking, cleaning, and odor control. When applied to the skin, it acts primarily as a physical exfoliant , meaning its tiny particles help remove dead skin cells from the surface. Unlike active skinca...