Is Baking Soda in Natural Deodorant Bad for My Skin?

Natural deodorants have surged in popularity as people seek healthier and more eco-friendly alternatives to traditional antiperspirants. One common ingredient in many natural deodorants including our own Earth Conscious range, is baking soda (aka Sodium Bicarbonate), celebrated for its highly effective odour-neutralising properties. However, as beneficial as baking soda can be, some users may experience skin irritation. So, is baking soda bad for your skin? Let’s explore.

What Does Baking Soda Do in Deodorants?

Baking soda, or sodium bicarbonate, is a naturally occurring compound with alkaline properties. When used in deodorants, it:

• Neutralises Odour: Baking soda balances pH levels, preventing the growth of odour-causing bacteria.

• Absorbs Moisture: While not an antiperspirant, it can help reduce wetness by absorbing sweat.

Why Does Baking Soda Irritate Some People’s Skin?

Despite its benefits, baking soda isn’t for everyone. Here are a few reasons why it may cause irritation:

1. Alkaline Nature: Baking soda has a pH of around 8.5, while the skin’s natural pH is closer to 5.5. This pH imbalance can disrupt the skin barrier, leading to dryness, redness, or irritation.
   
   

2. Sensitive Skin: People with sensitive skin may be more prone to reactions when using baking soda-based deodorants.
   
   

3. Overuse: Frequent reapplication or using too much product can increase the likelihood of irritation.
   
   

4. Friction: Baking soda particles can cause abrasion, especially in sensitive areas like the underarms.
   
   

How to Successfully Use a Deodorant containing Baking Soda 

Natural Deodorants need to be carefully formulated with a balance of ingredients that not only work effectively against body odour but keep the armpit skin cared for and moisturised to. A good quality deodorant will balance the alkalinity of the Sodium Bicarbonate with ingredients such as Shea Butter or Coconut Oil but it will also use just the right amount of Baking Soda to be effective yet not irritating to the skin. 

Tips for Using Baking Soda Deodorants Safely

If you love the effectiveness of baking soda but want to minimise risks, consider these tips:

1. Patch Test: Apply a small amount to your inner arm before full use.

2. Moderate Use: Don’t overapply; a pea-sized amount per underarm is usually sufficient.

3. Moisturise: Apply a natural moisturiser to your underarms to create a barrier. Although a good natural deodorant will already have this included within their formulation.

4. Choose Blended Formulations: Deodorants with added soothing ingredients like shea butter or aloe vera can help counteract the alkalinity of baking soda.

Common signs of a reaction to baking soda include:

• Redness

• Itching

• Dry patches or flaking skin

• Rashes

If you notice these symptoms, discontinue use and give your skin time to recover. Applying soothing agents like aloe vera or coconut oil can help.

Alternatives to Baking Soda in Natural Deodorants

If baking soda doesn’t agree with your skin, there are several alternatives that you could try:

• Magnesium Oxide: Also an alkaline that neutralises body odour

• Activated Charcoal: Absorbs moisture and toxins

• Arrowroot Powder: Helps absorb sweat and keep skin dry but not a great deodoriser.

• Zinc Oxide: Neutralises odour-causing bacteria.

Many brands now offer baking soda-free formulations specifically designed for sensitive skin. You can find the range of Earth Conscious Bicarb-free natural deodorants here.

Conclusion

Baking soda in natural deodorants can be a game-changer for tackling odour and are used by many but as with all things skincare, they are not universally suitable. It’s also important to consider whether or not it’s the baking soda that is causing the irritation or whether or not there is a sensitivity to fragrance for example. The good news? If baking soda isn’t right for you, there are plenty of effective alternatives to explore. You just need to find the right product for you.