The claim that baking soda can remove dark spots, wrinkles, and dark circles is not supported by good scientific evidence. In fact, using baking soda on your face can do more harm than good.
Why baking soda isn’t recommended for facial skin
- It has a high pH, while healthy skin is naturally slightly acidic.
- It can damage the skin’s protective barrier, leading to dryness, irritation, and redness.
- It does not reliably remove wrinkles, fade dark spots, or treat dark circles.
Better options for these concerns
For dark spots (hyperpigmentation):
- Daily broad-spectrum sunscreen (SPF 30 or higher)
- Products containing ingredients like vitamin C, niacinamide, azelaic acid, or retinoids (depending on your skin and a clinician’s advice)
For wrinkles:
- Sunscreen every day
- Retinoids (including prescription retinoids or over-the-counter retinol)
- Moisturizers that contain ingredients such as hyaluronic acid
For dark circles:
- Getting enough sleep
- Managing allergies if they contribute
- Using sunscreen around the eyes
- Depending on the cause, products with caffeine or retinoids may help some people
If you’ve already used baking soda
If you notice burning, redness, or persistent irritation, stop using it and switch to a gentle cleanser and fragrance-free moisturizer. If symptoms are severe or don’t improve, seek advice from a healthcare professional.
For skin concerns, treatments with evidence behind them are generally safer and more effective than DIY remedies like baking soda.
