by Kimberley Heit

Created on: August 18, 2011

Baking soda can be used in a number of ways to enhance your health and beauty routine. This article looks at six health and beauty ideas for baking soda.

Six health and beauty ideas for baking soda:

1. Baking soda Face Scrub

Baking soda can be used to create a scrub for your face. Simply combine your existing face wash or water with an equal amount of baking soda and apply to the face in a circular motion. This will help exfoliate away any dead skin cells. It is a good idea to do a test patch first, because those with sensitive skin may find this too irritating.

2. Baking soda for Teeth whitening

Baking soda is a fabulous natural teeth whitener. A little baking soda on a wet toothbrush has a mild abrasive effect on your teeth. This can help to remove any build up on your teeth and many help to remove or reduce stains. Use this treatment once a week to keep your teeth nicely polished. After use your teeth should feel smooth, as opposed to that furry feeling they can get. Some may find the taste a little unpleasant, so be ready with some water to give your mouth a good rinse after you have cleaned your teeth with the baking soda.

3. Baking soda Scalp treatment

Baking soda can be used to help remove any build up on the scalp. Create a paste with a little baking soda and water. Then apply to the scalp and massage it in well to help dislodge any build up. Shampoo well after application, because you want to get all the baking soda out, otherwise your hair may be left with a gritty feel.

4. Baking soda bath soak

Baking soda can be added to your bath for many benefits. If has an antiseptic effect, and it will help to mildly exfoliate your skin, leaving it nice and smooth. You can simply dissolve a small amount of baking soda under the tap as you fill the bath.

5. Baking soda Foot treatment

Baking soda can make a good foot treatment, due to its antibacterial abilities. In some cases it can help treat the fungal infection known as athlete’s foot. Try soaking your feet in a solution of baking soda and water for at least 30 minutes a day until the complaint clears up.

6. Baking soda for itches

In some instances, baking soda can be useful in providing relief from itchiness. Try applying a baking soda paste, made from two parts baking soda, 1 part water, to the irritated skin. Or you could add baking soda to your bath water and soak for at least 30 minutes.

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