What if the key to glowing, youthful skin was hiding in your kitchen pantry? My nana, with her timeless beauty and wisdom, has sworn by baking soda (sodium bicarbonate) for decades, crediting it for her radiant complexion. In a world obsessed with expensive serums and complex routines, her simple, natural approach using this humble ingredient is a refreshing revelation. Nana’s three tried-and-true methods harness baking soda’s cleansing, exfoliating, and balancing properties to transform skin affordably and effectively. Ready to unlock her secrets and achieve a luminous glow? Dive into these game-changing techniques and discover why baking soda is Nana’s skincare superhero.


🧼 Why Baking Soda Is a Skincare Superstar
Baking soda is more than a baking staple—it’s a versatile skincare ally. Its mild abrasive texture gently exfoliates dead skin cells, unclogs pores, and smooths texture. With a pH of 9, its alkaline nature neutralizes excess acidity on the skin, reducing irritation and balancing oil production. Plus, its antibacterial properties help combat acne-causing bacteria, making it a go-to for clearer, healthier skin. Backed by dermatological insights, baking soda’s fine granules and cleansing power make it a natural fit for gentle, effective skincare—when used wisely.

🌿 Nana’s 3 Baking Soda Skincare Methods
Nana’s methods are simple, affordable, and tailored to different skin needs. Here’s how she uses baking soda to keep her skin radiant, along with the science behind each technique.

🫧 Method 1: Baking Soda and Water Paste
This quick, no-fuss exfoliant is Nana’s go-to for a fresh, polished complexion.

How to Do It:

Mix 1 tablespoon of baking soda with a few drops of water to form a thick paste.
Gently massage onto the face in circular motions, focusing on blackhead-prone areas like the nose or chin.
Leave for 2–3 minutes, then rinse with warm water and pat dry.
Follow with a lightweight moisturizer to lock in hydration.
Why It Works:
The paste’s gritty texture sloughs off dead skin cells, unclogs pores, and reveals smoother, brighter skin. Its antibacterial action targets blemishes, while its mild alkalinity balances oil production.

How Often: Use 1–2 times weekly for a refreshed, glowing complexion.

Best For: Oily or combination skin needing gentle exfoliation and pore cleansing.

🍯 Method 2: Baking Soda and Honey Mask
For a nourishing, hydrating treat, Nana pairs baking soda with honey for a spa-like experience.

How to Do It:

Combine 1 tablespoon of baking soda with 1 tablespoon of raw honey to create a smooth mask.
Apply evenly across the face, avoiding the eye area.
Leave on for 10–15 minutes, then rinse with warm water and pat dry.
Finish with a moisturizer to seal in softness.
Why It Works:
Honey’s antibacterial and humectant properties hydrate and soothe, complementing baking soda’s exfoliating and cleansing effects. This duo reduces redness, fights acne, and leaves skin soft and supple.

How Often: Use 1–2 times weekly for a hydrated, radiant glow.

Best For: Dry or acne-prone skin craving moisture and gentle cleansing.

🍋 Method 3: Baking Soda and Lemon Exfoliant
For a brightening boost, Nana’s invigorating exfoliant combines baking soda with lemon juice.

How to Do It:

Mix 1 tablespoon of baking soda with the juice of half a lemon to form a foamy paste.
Gently massage onto the face, avoiding the eye area, for 1–2 minutes.
Rinse thoroughly with warm water, pat dry, and apply sunscreen if heading outdoors.
Why It Works:
Lemon’s citric acid brightens dark spots and evens skin tone, while baking soda exfoliates and cleanses. Together, they tackle discoloration and dullness for a vibrant complexion.

How Often: Use once weekly due to lemon’s acidity, which can be potent.

Best For: Dull or uneven skin tones needing a brightening lift.

🔬 The Science Behind Baking Soda’s Skincare Magic
Baking soda’s effectiveness lies in its unique properties:

Alkaline Nature: With a pH of 9, it neutralizes excess skin acidity, reducing irritation and balancing oil production.
Exfoliation: Its fine granules gently remove dead skin cells, promoting cell turnover and smoother texture.
Antibacterial Action: Inhibits acne-causing bacteria, helping prevent breakouts.
pH Balancing: Temporarily adjusts skin’s pH to reduce inflammation, though overuse can disrupt the skin’s natural barrier (pH ~4.5–5.5).
Research Note: Studies, like those in the Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, highlight baking soda’s efficacy as a mild exfoliant and antibacterial agent, but emphasize moderation to avoid irritation.

🌟 Why Nana Swears by Baking Soda
Nana’s glowing skin is proof of baking soda’s power. She loves its simplicity—no need for pricey products when a $1 box delivers results. Its versatility lets her customize treatments, from quick exfoliation to nourishing masks. Most importantly, it’s a time-tested remedy, passed down through generations, proving that nature’s simplest solutions often work best. With every use, Nana feels refreshed, confident, and radiant, and you can too.

⚠️ Precautions for Safe Use
While baking soda is a skincare gem, it’s not for everyone. Its high pH can disrupt the skin’s natural barrier if overused, especially for sensitive skin. Follow these tips to use it safely:

Patch Test: Apply a small amount to your inner arm and wait 24 hours to check for irritation.
Limit Use: Stick to 1–2 times weekly to avoid dryness or sensitivity.
Dilute Properly: Always mix with water, honey, or lemon to reduce alkalinity.
Moisturize After: Follow with a hydrating moisturizer to restore the skin’s barrier.
Avoid Sensitive Skin: Skip if you have eczema, rosacea, or broken skin, as it may irritate.
Consult a Dermatologist: If you have chronic skin conditions or are unsure, seek professional advice.
Note: Lemon juice (Method 3) is photosensitive, so always apply sunscreen after use to prevent UV damage.

📈 What Results Can You Expect?
With consistent, careful use, Nana’s methods deliver:

Within Days: Smoother texture, reduced blackheads, and a brighter complexion.
Within Weeks: Clearer pores, fewer breakouts, and a radiant glow.
Long-Term: Balanced oil production, even skin tone, and a youthful vibrancy, just like Nana’s.
These methods are gentle yet effective, offering a natural alternative to harsh chemical exfoliants.


🛠️ Pro Tips to Maximize Baking Soda’s Benefits
Choose Quality: Use pure, food-grade baking soda for safety and purity.
Customize Ratios: Adjust water or honey to suit your skin’s sensitivity—more liquid for gentler application.
Pair with Hydration: Follow with a soothing toner or aloe vera to calm skin post-treatment.
Cleanse First: Wash your face with a gentle cleanser before applying baking soda to remove surface oils.
Store Smart: Keep baking soda in an airtight container to maintain freshness.
🚀 Embrace Nana’s Skincare Wisdom
Baking soda isn’t just a kitchen staple—it’s a skincare revolution, as Nana’s glowing complexion proves. Her three methods—baking soda and water paste, honey mask, and lemon exfoliant—offer simple, affordable ways to achieve smoother, clearer, and brighter skin. Rooted in tradition and backed by science, these techniques harness baking soda’s natural power to transform your complexion. Start with a patch test, choose the method that suits your skin, and watch your radiance unfold.

Ready to glow like Nana? Try her baking soda rituals today and share your results in the comments below—let’s inspire each other to shine naturally!

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not substitute professional medical advice. Consult a dermatologist before using baking soda, especially if you have sensitive skin or existing skin conditions.