Many online articles promote baking soda as a remedy for dark spots, wrinkles, and dark circles, but dermatologists generally do not recommend applying baking soda regularly to the skin.
Why baking soda can be problematic
Baking Soda is highly alkaline (high pH), while healthy skin is naturally slightly acidic. Frequent use can:
- Disrupt the skin barrier
- Cause dryness and irritation
- Trigger redness or burning
- Potentially worsen hyperpigmentation in some people
What about dark spots?
There is no strong scientific evidence that baking soda fades dark spots. Better-supported options include:
- Daily sunscreen
- Vitamin C serums
- Niacinamide
- Retinoids
- Azelaic acid
What about wrinkles?
Baking soda does not reduce wrinkles. Treatments with stronger evidence include:
- Retinoids (such as tretinoin)
- Sunscreen
- Moisturizers containing hyaluronic acid
- Certain in-office dermatologic procedures
What about dark circles?
Dark circles can be caused by:
- Genetics
- Lack of sleep
- Allergies
- Pigmentation
- Visible blood vessels under thin skin
Baking soda has not been shown to improve these causes and may irritate the delicate skin around the eyes.
If you still want to try it
Use caution:
- Mix a small amount with water to form a paste.
- Patch-test on a small area first.
- Avoid the eye area.
- Stop immediately if you experience irritation.
- Do not use it frequently.
For most people, a gentle skincare routine with sunscreen, moisturizer, and evidence-based active ingredients is a safer and more effective approach than baking soda for dark spots, wrinkles, or dark circles.
