Snapshot
- Overview
- Baking soda used to boost cleansing power, though it can be harsh.
- Category
- Cleansing
- Type
- Buffer
Sodium Bicarbonate
Sodium Bicarbonate is an inorganic salt serving as a pH-adjuster and mild abrasive in cleansers, deodorants, and bath products. It's used to neutralize acids, buffer formulas, and boost cleansing, though its alkalinity may bother sensitive skin.
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Our take
Is Sodium Bicarbonate a Good Ingredient?
It rates Fair because it buffers pH and boosts cleansing and deodorizing, but its alkalinity can disrupt the skin barrier and irritate sensitive areas with frequent use, so it's best suited to rinse-off or targeted applications rather than daily facial leave-ons.
What it does
Skin Benefits
It improves cleansing power and helps reduce unwanted odors for a fresh feel, though those with delicate skin may find it too alkaline for regular facial use.
Where you'll find it
Uses in Skincare & Cosmetics
It's common in powder cleansers, deodorant sticks, bath bombs, and foot soaks for its balancing and scrubbing properties, and sometimes used in DIY-style masks and body scrubs for an extra-clean feel.
Before you use it
Safety
It can be irritating due to its high pH, especially on the underarm, facial skin, or compromised barriers, so patch test and avoid the eye area. It's generally safe in rinse-off or short-contact use when balanced within the formula.
Products with Sodium Bicarbonate
