Baking Soda for Dry, Itchy Skin: Benefits & Risks

Baking soda (sodium bicarbonate) baths may temporarily relieve itch from eczema, psoriasis, or dry skin due to mild alkaline neutralization of skin surface acids. However:

• pH disruption: Skin's acid mantle (pH 4.5–5.5) is protective; baking soda (pH ~8.3) raises skin pH, impairing barrier function and microbiome.
• Dryness exacerbation: Alkaline pH increases transepidermal water loss.
• Irritation: Can cause stinging, especially on broken skin.

Better alternatives: Colloidal oatmeal baths, fragrance-free moisturizers (ceramides, petrolatum), cool compresses, topical corticosteroids (as prescribed), humidifiers. Limit bath time, use lukewarm water.

If itch persists >2 weeks, worsens, or shows signs of infection, see a dermatologist.