How to Use Baking Soda for Hair: Benefits and Methods

Baking soda isn't just a common baking ingredient; it also has numerous benefits for hair care, helping to keep hair healthy and silky smooth. However, using it incorrectly can be damaging to your hair. Learn how to use baking soda for hair care in the article below.

1. Benefits of Baking Soda for Hair

Baking soda can be combined with apple cider vinegar or lemon to provide amazing benefits for your hair. Do you know what these benefits are? Let's find out in detail.
 

Natural Clarifying

One of the great benefits of baking soda for hair is its natural cleansing ability, helping to remove excess oil and product buildup, resulting in hair that is revitalized, shiny, and softer.
 

Oil Control

Oily hair can attract dirt and pollutants, leading to bad odors. Baking soda helps balance the pH of your scalp, keeping it healthy. It also controls oil production and neutralizes unpleasant smells.

Exfoliation and Dandruff Removal

Dandruff can cause itching and discomfort, especially in the winter, making you feel self-conscious. Baking soda helps eliminate white flakes, exfoliate the scalp, cleanse it, and keep it healthy.
 

Promote Hair Growth

To achieve straighter hair, it's essential to remove buildup for a smoother, shinier appearance. Baking soda can enhance hair texture, adding volume and bounce. Its ability to balance pH levels also creates a healthy scalp environment that promotes hair growth.

2. Harmful Effects of Baking Soda on Hair

The pH level of the scalp is typically acidic, while baking soda is alkaline and can balance the pH on the scalp. However, if used improperly or excessively, it can cause several issues for your hair:
 

3. How to Use Baking Soda for Hair - DIY at Home

 

Banking Soda with Apple Cider Vinegar

Washing your hair with baking soda is an easy and effective way to keep it healthy.
 

• Put 1 part baking soda in a bowl.
• Add warm water into the baking soda.
• Add a few drops of essential oil and mix well.

*** Note: Do not use hot water, as it can make the baking soda clump.

Wet your hair, then apply the baking soda mixture from roots to tips. Massage it into your scalp. Let it sit for about 1 minute. Finally, rinse your hair thoroughly with water to remove all the baking soda.

Baking soda opens the hair cuticle, which can weaken the hair by allowing it to absorb too much water. To counter this, you can rinse your hair with apple cider vinegar after washing with baking soda. Mix 1 tablespoon of apple cider vinegar with 1 cup of warm water. This will help seal the cuticle, reduce frizz, and add shine to your hair.
 

Baking Soda with Hydrogen Peroxide

To lighten your hair, you can combine baking soda with hydrogen peroxide. Mix 2 tablespoons of baking soda with 1/2 teaspoon of hydrogen peroxide. Apply the mixture to your hair and leave it on for 30 minutes to 1 hour. Then, rinse thoroughly with cold water.
 

Banking Soda with Shampoo

You can also combine baking soda with dandruff shampoo to treat dandruff and brighten your scalp. Mix 2 tablespoons of baking soda with 2 tablespoons of dandruff shampoo to create a thick paste. Apply the mixture to your hair and leave it on for 5-10 minutes, then rinse thoroughly.

4. Can Baking Soda Damage Your Hair?

Baking soda can lighten hair and cleanse the scalp, but it’s not suitable for everyone. While it’s effective at removing product buildup, its high alkalinity can make hair dry, frizzy, and prone to breakage.

Because baking soda doesn’t contain moisturizing ingredients, overuse can lead to hair damage. People with sensitive skin may experience scalp irritation. If you have a dry, itchy scalp, it’s best to avoid using baking soda as it can worsen the condition. Always dilute baking soda before applying it to your hair and scalp.

Additionally, after using baking soda, make sure to use a deep conditioner to restore moisture and keep your hair hydrated.

5. Notes on Using Baking Soda for Hair

Baking soda can provide benefits for your hair, such as cleaning the scalp. However, if not used correctly, it can cause considerable damage.
  Here are some notes when using baking soda for hair care:
 

• Check for Allergies: Test baking soda on a small area of skin to ensure you are not allergic before applying it to your scalp.
• Frequency: Use baking soda only once a week, depending on your hair type and scalp condition.
• Moisturize: After using baking soda, use conditioner to restore moisture and improve the health of your hair.
• Avoid Eye Contact: Ensure baking soda does not come into contact with your eyes, as it can cause irritation.

Baking soda can be a great way to clean and care for your hair, but be mindful of the potential risks to avoid damage and breakage. Always keep your hair moisturized to maintain its smoothness, softness, and shine. To protect your hair, try to limit excessive styling and the use of harsh chemicals or dyes. Consider using hair extensions to achieve stylish and impressive looks without compromising your natural hair’s health.