Is It Safe To Use Baking Soda On Hair: Experts Give Their Opinion

Is it safe to use baking soda on hair? Learn the truth behind using this natural remedy for hair, if it’s a good exfoliator and if effects scalp pH levels.

As someone who is always looking for natural remedies for hair care, I’ve often come across the suggestion to use baking soda as a shampoo alternative. However, I’ve also heard concerns about the safety of using baking soda on hair. So, I decided to do some research to find out whether it’s truly safe to use baking soda on hair.

Why You Should Trust Haireveryday?

The author of this article, Leah Marie Priest has a degree in Cosmetology with years of experience in dealing with hair care, scalp care, and hairstyling. As someone who extensively deals with all kinds of hair textures, products, styling methods and more, hair Leah Marie knows what kind of products and procedures suit each hair type and person. We have also tested these hair products and processes ourselves to provide you an unbiased review about every product. Each of our articles are also reviewed by a team of medical professionals so that you get the most accurate and expert-reviewed information.

Is It Safe To Use Baking Soda On Hair

Baking soda has been used as a natural alternative to commercial shampoos because it is believed to help remove buildup and excess oil from the scalp. However, using baking soda on hair can have both positive and negative effects.

When baking soda is mixed with water, it forms an alkaline solution that can help remove dirt, oil, and product buildup from the hair. This can result in hair that feels cleaner and looks shinier. Additionally, baking soda can help balance the pH level of the scalp, which can help reduce dandruff and other scalp issues.

However, using baking soda on hair too frequently or in high concentrations can have negative effects. Baking soda is a strong alkaline substance, and using it too often can strip the hair of its natural oils and disrupt the pH balance of the scalp. This can lead to dry, brittle hair and an itchy, irritated scalp. (Tosti, Antonella, and James R Schwartz. “Role of scalp health in achieving optimal hair growth and retention.” International journal of cosmetic science vol. 43 Suppl 1 (2021): S1-S8. doi:10.1111/ics.12708)

It’s important to note that baking soda should not be used as a replacement for shampoo. While it can help remove buildup, it does not contain the necessary ingredients to cleanse the hair and scalp properly. Instead, it should be used as a occasional treatment to help remove buildup and restore the pH balance of the scalp.

In conclusion, YES baking soda can be a useful tool for maintaining healthy hair and scalp, but it should be used with caution. It’s important to use it in moderation and not as a replacement for shampoo.

Benefits of Using Baking Soda on Hair

Using baking soda on hair can have several benefits. In this section, I will discuss the cleansing properties, balancing scalp pH, and how it can be a replacement for shampoo.

Cleansing Properties

Baking soda is known for its cleansing properties. It can help remove dirt, oil, and product buildup from hair. When mixed with water, it forms a paste that can be applied to the scalp and hair. The paste can help remove impurities and leave hair feeling clean and refreshed.

Balancing Scalp pH

The pH of the scalp plays an important role in maintaining healthy hair. The normal pH of the scalp is between 4.5 and 5.5. When the pH level is too high or too low, it can lead to various scalp problems, such as dandruff, dryness, and itchiness. Baking soda has a pH of around 9, which can help balance the pH level of the scalp. When used in moderation, it can help maintain a healthy pH level and promote healthy hair growth.

Replacement for Shampoo

Baking soda can also be used as a replacement for shampoo. Some people prefer to use baking soda instead of shampoo because it is free of harsh chemicals and additives. However, it is important to note that baking soda can be drying to the hair if used too frequently. It is recommended to use baking soda as a replacement for shampoo no more than once a week.

Using baking soda on hair can have several benefits, including its cleansing properties, ability to balance scalp pH, and as a replacement for shampoo. However, it is important to use it in moderation and not rely on it as the sole method of hair care.

Risks and Precautions for Baking Soda Use

As with any hair care product, there are risks and precautions to consider when using baking soda on hair. In this section, I will discuss the potential for hair damage, pH imbalance concerns, and proper usage guidelines.

Potential for Hair Damage

While baking soda can effectively remove buildup and excess oil from hair, it can also be abrasive and cause damage if used improperly. Overuse or leaving baking soda on the hair for too long can lead to dryness, breakage, and even hair loss. It’s important to use baking soda in moderation and to always follow proper usage guidelines.

pH Imbalance Concerns

Baking soda has a high pH level, which can disrupt the natural pH balance of hair. This can lead to dryness, frizz, and damage over time. It’s important to balance out the high pH of baking soda with an acidic rinse, such as apple cider vinegar or lemon juice, to restore the hair’s natural pH balance.

Proper Usage Guidelines

To minimize the risks associated with baking soda use, it’s important to follow proper usage guidelines. Here are some tips to keep in mind:

• Use baking soda sparingly, no more than once a week.
• Mix baking soda with water to create a paste, and apply it only to the scalp and roots.
• Massage the mixture gently into the scalp for no more than two minutes.
• Rinse thoroughly with warm water.
• Follow up with an acidic rinse, such as apple cider vinegar or lemon juice, to restore the hair’s natural pH balance.

By following these guidelines, you can safely incorporate baking soda into your hair care routine. However, it’s always a good idea to consult with a professional stylist or dermatologist before trying any new hair care products or techniques.

How To Use Baking Soda for Hair Care

As someone who has tried using baking soda on my hair, I can share some tips on how to use it effectively for hair care. First and foremost, it’s important to remember that baking soda can be harsh on hair if used incorrectly. Here are some guidelines to follow:

1. Dilute the baking soda: Mix one tablespoon of baking soda with one cup of water to create a diluted solution. This will help prevent the baking soda from stripping your hair of its natural oils.
   
2. Apply the solution to wet hair: Wet your hair thoroughly before applying the baking soda solution. This will help distribute the solution evenly throughout your hair.
   
3. Massage the solution into your scalp: Focus on massaging the solution into your scalp, as this is where most of the oil and dirt buildup occurs.
   
4. Rinse thoroughly: After massaging the solution into your scalp, rinse your hair thoroughly with warm water. Be sure to remove all traces of the baking soda solution from your hair.
   
5. Use a conditioner: Baking soda can leave your hair feeling dry, so it’s important to use a conditioner after rinsing the baking soda solution out of your hair. This will help restore moisture and leave your hair feeling soft and smooth.
   

Remember, baking soda should not be used on your hair too frequently as it can cause damage. It’s best to use it once a month or less. If you have any concerns about using baking soda on your hair, it’s always best to consult with a professional hairstylist.

Conclusion

To sum it up, it’s important to understand that baking soda is a highly alkaline substance, which means it can disrupt the pH balance of your hair and scalp. This can lead to dryness, breakage, and even hair loss if used incorrectly. Additionally, baking soda can be abrasive and cause damage to the hair cuticle, which can also lead to breakage and split ends.

Despite these potential risks, many people still swear by the benefits of using baking soda on their hair, claiming that it leaves their hair feeling cleaner and more voluminous. So, is it safe to use baking soda on hair if you don’t use it too often on hair or rub your hair too vigorously after applying baking soda. 

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