Beauty Treatments: Baking Soda

Baking soda, sodium bicarbonate, bicarbonate of soda… or whatever you like to call it, there’s really no denying that it is a miracle powder. This inexpensive, multitasking powder can help you look amazing from head to toe! In my household baking soda was really only used during holiday cookie season, and whenever I opened my fridge to smell a disgusting odor– Well that all changed quickly after I learned about these mind blowing ways baking soda can be used. Besides the fact that it’s extremely cheap, you probably already have a brand new box just waiting to be used in your cupboard! Baking soda has antifungal, antiseptic, anti inflammatory, and antibacterial properties. It has many uses when it comes to the beauty realm. Below are just some of my favorite ways to use it!

Clarifying Shampoo

Get rid of product build up or excessive oils in your hair by simply mixing 3 tablespoons of baking soda with your everyday shampoo. Massage into your scalp and shampoo like normal. Repeat 1-2 times a week until desired results. If you experience “stinky hair or scalp” which can be common for people with an extremely oily scalp– Baking soda can help problem by reducing the oils and neutralizing the odors. Its alkaline nature helps to balance the pH level of the scalp to keep it healthy and clean. For this simply mix 1 part baking soda with 3 parts water. Apply to damp hair at the scalp. Let sit for 5 minutes and rinse. Repeat 1-2 times a month for best results.

Acne Spot Treatment

This is perfect for when you run out of your favorite acne spot treatment or if you simply don’t have any product you use for break outs. Baking sodas anti fungal and anti inflammatory properties are amazing for breakouts. Mix 1 teaspoon baking soda with a little water to make a paste. Apply paste to the affected skin for 1-2 minutes. Rinse with cool water. Repeat daily for 2-3 days.

Teeth Whitener

There’s so many whitening treatments out there that can range in price from 20-400$, but baking soda is the cheapest easiest way to achieve a whiter smile! Its simple and something that you can do 3-4 times a week. Baking soda helps to remove plaque along with removing the yellow stains from your teeth. One way to whiten is by sprinkling a small amount of baking soda on your regular toothpaste. Brush your teeth as usual for about 2 minutes. For an anti fungal mouthwash, mix one teaspoon of baking soda with ¼ cup of water and swish in your mouth and around your teeth. Repeat once a week.

Nail Treatment

Have you ever removed your nail polish after a few weeks and your nails seemed stained yellow? Baking soda is the perfect way to prep your nails for your next mani/pedi. Mix 2½ tablespoons of baking soda and 1 tablespoon of 3% hydrogen peroxide to make a paste. Use a cotton swab to apply it on your nails. Wait 2 minutes before rinsing your nails with warm water. For best results, repeat once every few months. For a quick treatment simply dip a nail scrub brush into some baking soda with water and scrub on top and underneath your nails until clean.

Written by Allie Shigeno