Baking soda is a common household ingredient, but it is not recommended as a regular skincare treatment for dark spots, wrinkles, or dark circles. There is little evidence that it improves these concerns, and it can irritate the skin.
Why baking soda isn’t a good facial treatment
- It is alkaline, while healthy skin is naturally slightly acidic.
- Frequent use can disrupt the skin’s protective barrier, leading to:
- Dryness
- Redness
- Burning or stinging
- Irritation
- Worsening of eczema or acne in some people
Better options for common skin concerns
Dark spots
- Wear a broad-spectrum SPF 30+ sunscreen every day.
- Consider products containing niacinamide, vitamin C, azelaic acid, or retinoids.
Fine lines and wrinkles
- Daily sunscreen is one of the most effective ways to prevent further damage.
- Use a moisturizer to support the skin barrier.
- Retinoids have the strongest evidence for improving fine lines over time.
Dark circles
- Get adequate sleep and manage allergies if they’re contributing.
- Use sunscreen around the eyes.
- Depending on the cause, ingredients such as caffeine or retinoids may help some people, but dark circles often have genetic or anatomical causes.
If you still want to try baking soda
It’s safest not to use it on your face, especially around the eyes. If you choose to experiment despite the risks:
- Test it on a small area of skin first.
- Stop immediately if you experience burning, redness, or persistent irritation.
- Never apply it to broken or inflamed skin.
For persistent dark spots, wrinkles, or dark circles, a dermatologist can recommend treatments that are supported by evidence and suited to your skin type.
