Sodium Bicarbonate

Sodium bicarbonate, commonly known as baking soda, is a white crystalline powder. In cosmetics, it primarily functions as a pH adjuster, helping to balance the acidity or alkalinity of a product. It can also act as a mild abrasive for exfoliation or a deodorizer.

BenefitMinimal 0.5 / 4

Texture i0.5 / 4

Whether it can improve smoothness and surface texture — roughness, flaking, clogged pores, or unevenness. Exfoliating acids, retinoids, and smoothing moisturizers may score here.

RiskModerate 1.5 / 4

Irritation i1.5 / 4

Risk of short-term irritation — stinging, burning, dryness, redness, or discomfort. Common for strong actives, acids, retinoids, fragrances, and harsh surfactants.

Sensitization i0.5 / 4

Risk of allergic contact dermatitis or immune-based reactions. Fragrance allergens, preservatives, botanicals, and some dyes may score here.

Systemic exposure i0.1 / 4

Whether it has meaningful potential to be absorbed into the body at levels that may matter biologically. Most cosmetic ingredients score low unless there is known concern or high exposure.

Rated by SpottyLabs' ingredient methodology, independent of brands.

What it helps with

• mild exfoliation
• odor control
• pH balancing

Things to watch

• skin irritation
• dryness

Products with Sodium Bicarbonate

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Frequently asked questions

Is sodium bicarbonate safe for sensitive skin?

Sodium bicarbonate can be irritating to sensitive skin due to its alkaline nature, which can disrupt the skin's natural acid mantle. Patch testing is recommended before widespread use.

Can sodium bicarbonate be used as a facial scrub?

While it has mild abrasive properties, using sodium bicarbonate as a facial scrub can be too harsh for many skin types, potentially leading to irritation and dryness. It is generally not recommended for regular facial exfoliation.