Can You Use Baking Soda for Itching Skin?

You don't need to have a skin condition, such as eczema, to suffer from itching and irritation. Skin can itch for a number of reasons, including a rash, bug bite or brush with poison ivy. Store-bought anti-itch creams may help a little, but they sometimes contain ingredients that make the problem worse. If you'd like to try a more natural solution to stop itchiness, whip up a baking soda bath or paste. Use it on your feet, face, underarms and all over your body.

Step 1

Run a warm bath, then add 1/2 cup to 1 cup of baking soda to the water. Allow the baking soda to dissolve. Soak in the water for as long as you'd like to soothe all-over itchiness.

Step 2

Make a paste of one part baking soda to three parts water. Mix well. Dab the paste on your itchy spots, such as bug bites or diaper rash, then let it dry. Rinse it off with lukewarm water.

Step 3

Wash your face with your usual cleanser and water. Combine 1 teaspoon of water or lemon juice with 1 teaspoon of baking soda, then gently rub the paste onto your face to soothe itching and help reduce acne. Repeat two or three times a week.

Step 4

Fill a large bowl or basin with 1 quart of water, then add 1 tablespoon of baking soda. Soak your feet in the water for 15 minutes to kill odor-causing bacteria. Dust your feet lightly with dry baking soda before putting on shoes to keep itching, sweat and odor at bay.

Step 5

Dip a cotton ball in baking soda, then rub it on your clean underarms for a natural deodorant. Try it if your regular antiperspirant irritates your skin.

Step 6

Mix together one part baking soda with three parts water. Pour the mixture over your head to clean your hair and soothe an irritated scalp. Massage the baking soda into your scalp and hair, then let it set for up to three minutes. Rinse with lukewarm water.

Things You'll Need

• Baking soda

• Lemon juice, optional

• Bowl or basin

• Cotton balls