Life

20 Ways to Get Rid of Zits and Prevent Breakouts

12. Baking Soda

The Spruce Eats

Baking soda, scientifically known as sodium bicarbonate, is a common household ingredient that is popularly used in a variety of home remedies. One condition that could benefit from baking soda is acne. This alkaline substance helps manage pH levels, and contains antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties. It can reduce inflammation caused by acne, and even relieve mild pain. It is not recommended for daily use, however, as it can dry out your skin, or just aggravate acne and skin irritations when used excessively.

To relieve inflammation caused by acne, you could use baking soda as an exfoliant, a face mask, or a spot treatment. Simply mix two teaspoons of baking soda with a little bit of warm water until it forms a paste. Apply this to your face with your fingertips, and gently massage into your skin. If you are using the mixture as an exfoliant, thoroughly rinse it out immediately after working it into your face. If you wish to use it as a mask, leave it on for 10 to 15 minutes before washing it off. As a spot treatment, dab on a small amount of the baking soda paste on the affected area, and leave it on for at least 20 minutes before rinsing it off. You should use this baking soda method for only up to two times a week at most.