Can baking soda stop itching
Is Baking Soda Safe and Effective for Skin?
Baking soda has antibacterial properties. It may have skin benefits if you have certain skin conditions, such as acne, eczema, and psoriasis. That said, it may cause side effects.
Baking soda (sodium bicarbonate) is a common staple in most kitchens. Its a key ingredient in many baked goods, and you can even use it for a green way to clean around your home.
Baking soda is found in many oral healthcare products too, and some people even use baking soda to help clear up several common skin conditions. However, there are potential risks to using it on your skin.
Read on to learn the benefits and risks of using baking soda on your skin, and tips for using it safely.
Baking soda is easy to find and affordable. In some cases, it can take the place of more expensive skin care products.
Baking soda may be used for a variety of conditions affecting the skin. Some of these uses are backed by research, while others only have anecdotal evidence and should be used with caution.
1. Acne
Baking soda is a natural antiseptic with
This treatment may be used with caution on the shoulders or back, but should not be used on large areas of the body or on the face.
To use, make a paste of baking soda and water. Leave on acne patches for up to 15 minutes and rinse.
2. Eczema
Baking soda is not a cure for eczema, but it may help relieve the itch associated with it. The National Eczema Association recommends adding 1/4 cup baking soda to a warm (not hot) bath and soaking for 10 to 15 minutes. Gently towel dry your skin and moisturize afterwards.
3. Psoriasis
4. Chickenpox
Taking a baking soda and oatmeal bath may help reduce itching and redness caused by chickenpox. Add one cup of each to bath water and soak for 20 minutes.
5. Hemorrhoids
While not a cure, the pain, itching, and inflammation of hemorrhoids may be soothed in a baking soda bath. Follow the instructions above for making a baking soda bath.
6. Ichthyosis
Ichthyosis refers to a group of skin conditions that can cause dry and thickened, scaly skin all over the body. Immersion in bath water treated with baking soda is an old treatment for this condition.
Its theorized that baking soda alters the pH of bath water, helping to exfoliate the scales caused by these conditions. More research is needed to support these claims.
7. Mosquito bites
A paste of baking soda and water may help alleviate the itching caused by bug bites.
To make a paste, mix 1 tablespoon of baking soda with enough water to form a paste. Apply to your bug bite and let sit for up to 10 minutes before washing the paste off your skin.
8. Bee stings
Anecdotal evidence suggests baking soda paste may neutralize bee venom, plus reduce the pain, redness, and swelling of bee or wasp stings.
9. Poison ivy
If you get poison ivy, sumac, or poison oak, a baking soda bath may help reduce itch and alleviate redness, according to anecdotal evidence. There is no scientific evidence to support these claims, however.
To use, add 1 cup of baking soda to a warm bath and soak for 15 minutes.
10. Fungal infections
Fungal infections of the skin and nails, such as onychomycosis, have been shown to improve when soaked in a solution of baking soda and water.
11. Yeast infections (candidiasis)
Yeast is a type of fungus. Baking sodas positive effects on fungal infections may also make it an effective treatment for the itchiness, redness, and swelling caused by candidiasis, an overgrowth of Candida yeast on skin.
Research is limited, but you may try soaking in a baking soda bath to help treat candidiasis. Be sure to fully dry your skin after the bath.
12. Ingrown hair removal
Baking soda can be used as a gentle exfoliator to remove ingrown hair from skin. Theres no data baking up this use for baking soda, but lots of people swear by its effectiveness.
Try making a paste with water or a non-comedogenic oil. Then gently scrub the area of skin containing ingrown hairs in a circular motion.
Baking soda is an alkaline chemical compound. Because its alkaline, baking soda can alter the natural pH of skin.
Any substance with a pH below 7.0 is acidic, and any substance with a pH above 7.0 is alkaline. Skin is meant to be slightly acidic, with a pH between 4.5 and 5.5, but baking soda has a pH of 9.
Increasing the pH of your skin can lead to dryness, irritation, and other side effects. Baking sodas alkalinity also makes it too basic of a solution to use as a face wash. It may strip the skin of necessary oils, and disrupt the acid mantle your skin needs to protect it from infection and breakouts.
Dissolved baking soda can be absorbed through skin. For this reason, baking soda baths are not recommended for some people. Avoid baking soda baths if you:
- have a large or serious infection
- have open wounds
- have diabetes
- have heart disease
- are pregnant or nursing
- are allergic to baking soda
- are prone to fainting
Do not use baking soda on large areas of a babys sensitive skin. Baking soda is sometimes used for diaper rash, but this is
Baking sodas ability to disrupt the normal pH of skin may cause metabolic alkalosis. This condition occurs when the normal pH level of tissue is elevated above the normal range. There are safer ways to relieve diaper rash.
Baking soda can be used as a paste when combined with water or other ingredients, such as lemon juice or oil. Use one part baking soda to three parts water or other ingredient.
Baking soda can also be dissolved into bath water alone, or with dry, uncooked oatmeal. Do not use more than 2 cups of baking soda per bath.
Baking soda is an affordable, easy-to-find product that may help manage symptoms of some skin conditions, but it may not be safe for everyone. Talk to your dermatologist before using baking soda on the skin. They can help you determine if there are more effective treatments.
How to relieve itching
Itchy skin, also known as pruritus, can be uncomfortable and frustrating. Some home remedies may help remedy itchy skin, including applying essential oils, wet wraps, and colloidal oatmeal.
Many people who frequently experience itchy skin may experience issues such as difficulty sleeping or anxiety. They may also scratch their skin, causing small tears, which are prone to infection.
Common causes of itchy skin include insect bites, allergies, stress, and skin conditions such as eczema and psoriasis.
This article outlines some of the best natural and home remedies for itching.
Menthol is an essential oil found in plants of the mint family. It has a cooling effect and can help relieve pain and itching.
Some
Always dilute essential oils in a carrier oil before applying them to the skin.
Learn more about the benefits of peppermint oil.
The American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) suggests that a good way to relieve itchy skin is to apply a cold, wet cloth or ice pack to the affected area for 510 minutes.
Cooling helps reduce inflammation that may be contributing to the itch.
Another option is to keep moisturizing creams and lotions in the refrigerator. This will ensure they have a direct cooling effect when a person applies them to the skin.
Wet wrap therapy (WWT) involves applying water-soaked fabric wraps made of gauze or surgical netting to areas of itchy skin.
These wraps rehydrate and soothe skin while providing a physical barrier that protects against scratching. This treatment can be especially beneficial for children.
WWT may also help the skin to absorb medications, such as topical steroids. Before applying the wraps, gently rub or pat medications on the area, and follow with a generous layer of moisturizer.
The National Eczema Association (NEA) suggests the following steps for applying wet wraps:
- Moisten a section of gauze in warm water until it becomes damp.
- Wrap the gauze around the itchy area of the skin.
- Wrap a dry piece of gauze over the top of the damp one.
- Carefully put on soft, cotton pajamas, taking care not to disturb the bandages.
- Leave the bandages on for several hours or overnight.
A person can use WWT for a few days to control an intense flare-up of itching. If itching does not subside, it is best to talk with a doctor or dermatologist about extending the therapy or trying an alternative treatment.
Colloidal oatmeal is finely ground oatmeal that a person can dissolve in water. The resulting solution forms a protective barrier on the surface of the skin, which helps to seal in moisture. Colloidal oatmeal can help to relieve dryness and itching.
Colloidal oatmeal also has known antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, both of which
Colloidal oatmeal is widely available in creams and lotions. Alternatively, a person can add the finely ground powder directly to bath water.
Learn more about the benefits of oatmeal for skin.
According to the National Psoriasis Foundation (NPF), apple cider vinegar may be particularly helpful in relieving an itchy scalp.
The NPF recommends diluting the vinegar in water using a 1-to-1 ratio. Apply the solution to the scalp and let it dry before rinsing it gently with lukewarm water.
Vinegar can cause a burning sensation on open wounds. People with cracked and bleeding skin should avoid this treatment.
Learn more about apple cider vinegar for eczema.
Moisturizers, such as creams and lotions, can help hydrate the outermost layer of the skin. They are essential for managing skin conditions that cause itching and dryness.
A good moisturizer will contain humectants and emollients. Humectants draw water into the skin, while emollients form a protective film over the skins surface, which helps lock in moisture.
It is best to apply moisturizers soon after a bath or shower while the skin is still a little damp.
The NEA provides the following tips on developing a good moisturizing routine:
- use a moisturizer with high oil content
- moisturize hands whenever they come into contact with water
- moisturize before going to bed to help the skin stay hydrated through the night
Baking soda has antifungal properties, and
The NEA recommends adding one-quarter of a cup of baking soda to a warm bath. An alternative option is to mix the baking soda with a little water to form a paste, which a person can apply directly to itchy areas.
Learn more about baking soda for skin.
According to the AAD, people should avoid possible irritants, as they may make itchiness worse. Possible irritants include:
Hot water
Bathing and showering in hot water remove moisture from the skin, making it more prone to dryness, redness, and itching. Reducing the water temperature even by a few degrees can help.
Temperature and humidity changes
Extreme changes in temperature and humidity can dry out the skin, causing flaking and itching.
A humidifier can help to maintain indoor humidity in the dry summer months. It can also help to counteract the drying effects of central heating during winter.
Fragranced skin care products
Some skin care products contain additives, such as perfumes and artificial colors, which can cause or worsen skin irritation.
People with itchy or sensitive skin should use fragrance-free and dye-free skin care products.
Wool and synthetic fibers
Clothing made from wool or synthetic fibers can feel rough against the skin, causing itchiness and irritation. Some people are more sensitive than others.
People with itchy skin can choose to wear loose-fitting cotton clothing whenever possible. Cotton allows the skin to breathe and prevents overheating.
Stress
Studies show that psychological stress
People can treat many cases of itching at home with an effective cleansing and moisturizing routine.
However, a person should see a doctor if they experience the following symptoms:
- itching that persists for more than 2 weeks or flares up on a regular basis
- itching accompanied by an unusual rash, bumps, or swelling
- signs of an infection, such as inflammation or weeping sores
- itching that affects the entire body
The above symptoms could indicate an underlying health issue that requires medical attention.
A doctor may also be able to recommend topical creams and medicines to relieve a persons itching.
The AAD lists the following ways to prevent itchy skin from occurring in the first place, including:
- regularly moisturizing
- wearing loose-fitting clothing
- avoid skin irritants such as perfumed soaps or detergents
- reducing stress
Here are some frequently asked questions about relieving itching.
What stops itching immediately?
Applying essential oils such as peppermint oils, wet wraps, colloidal oatmeal, and moisturizer may help soothe itching immediately.
What is the strongest anti-itch medication?
Anti-itch medication includes corticosteroid creams such as beclometasone.
Itchy skin can result from various causes, such as allergies, stress, or skin conditions. There are many ways to relieve itchy skin, including home remedies such as essential oils, wet wraps, and colloidal oatmeal.
