Table of ContentsView AllTable of ContentsBaking Soda6 Possible BenefitsDisadvantages & RisksUsing Baking SodaAlternatives

Table of ContentsView All

View All

Table of Contents

Baking Soda

6 Possible Benefits

Disadvantages & Risks

Using Baking Soda

Alternatives

Baking soda (sodium bicarbonate) might be a natural alternative for hair care. Possible benefits include removing excess oil and buildup, softening hair, and restoring pH (acid/base balance). However, this method comes with disadvantages, including the risk of hair damage over time.

What is referred to as the “no poo” (short for “no shampoo”) method has popularized using baking soda for hair. This hair fad replaces commercial shampoos with baking soda and other homemade products. The no poo method includes other natural options for shampooing hair, includingapple cider vinegar.

Learn what the research says about using baking soda in your hair care routine, including possible benefits, risks, and other ways to achieve your goals.

ondacaracola photography / Getty Images

A person washing their hair

What’s In Baking Soda?

Baking soda is composed of sodium and bicarbonate ions. It is known for its alkalizing effects at a pH of 9.

Sodium bicarbonate’s history begins about 4 million years ago when salt lakes evaporated and formed trona rock deposits.Trona is the rock that is processed into soda ash (baking soda).

The state of Wyoming has the world’s largest deposit of trona, producing over 17.4 tons of trona and employing 2,225 people in 2018.

6 Possible Benefits and Uses of Baking Soda for Hair

Removing Oil and Buildup

Baking soda might help to break down oils and dirt that accumulate on the hair and scalp.Hair can be restored to its natural shine and luster when product buildup is cleared from the scalp.

While a baking soda solution may clean the scalp, it should be used in moderation to avoid scalp irritation and other skin problems.Too much solution could strip natural oils from the hair and scalp.

Improving a Dry Scalp

The crystalline consistency of baking soda allows it to act as anexfoliantto remove dry skin from the scalp.Its alkalinity also allows it to clarify the scalp without lather and suds.

Baking soda may also help soothe inflamed, dry skin to reduce skin irritation and itching.It is typically used to treat skin irritations related to plant rashes, so it may help reduce itch related to dry scalp.

While baking soda might help clarify the scalp, there has been no evidence to date suggesting that it stimulates hair growth. If anything, it may actually lead to hair breakage and other damage and irritate the scalp if used too often.

Restoration of pH Balance

Most scalps have a pH level of 5.5, while hair shafts have an average pH level of the hair shaft is around 3.67.These are both in the acidic range. When the pH balance of the scalp is interrupted, it can lead to hair and scalp problems, includingdandruff, itch, and dryness.

DandruffDandruff is a common scalp condition that causes skin on your scalp to flake.It is usually related to rapid skin cell turnover.

Dandruff

Dandruff is a common scalp condition that causes skin on your scalp to flake.It is usually related to rapid skin cell turnover.

While the research is lacking, there have been reports that baking soda’s alkaline properties may neutralize the scalp and restore pH levels.

Research suggests that hair products with a high pH might actually damage hair, leading to breakage, frizz, and scalp irritation.Baking soda may not have a pH as high as many commercial hair products, but its pH is still high at 9.

Some websites on the no poo method suggest using a baking soda solution with diluted apple cider vinegar to restore the scalp’s pH level.No evidence suggests that this method can restore hair pH.

Apple cider vinegar has a pH level of 2 to 3, which is much lower than the scalp’s natural level.That means that while it may not cause harm, it will likely not improve pH levels in the hair and scalp.

One thing that apple cider vinegar might help with is treating dandruff related to a fungal cause. Apple cider vinegar is anantifungaland can work as a natural sanitizer to inhibit fungi growth.However, excessive use may lead to dryness and more dandruff.

How to Prevent Dandruff-Related Hair Loss

Lightening Dyed Hair

Baking soda is an abrasive.A baking soda manufacturer, Arm & Hammer, says it can lighten and fade dyed hair when mixed with regular shampoo.It can be a natural remedy for removing semipermanent hair dye. It may take a few washes to achieve the desired effect.

Reducing Bacterial Growth

There are claims that baking soda’s alkaline properties may help neutralize pH levels in the scalp, reducing thegrowth of bacteriaand fungi. However, there is no evidence to back up such claims.

Acts Like a Dry Shampoo

Dry shampoo is a haircare product that absorbs dirt, oil, and product buildup from the scalp and hair without actually washing it.It is applied to dry hair to freshen it when you are not able to wash it.

But all shampoos, including dry shampoos, contain synthetic ingredients like sodium benzoate, parabens, and alcohol.Baking soda does not contain any of these harsh ingredients.

It might be an alternative that allows hair to look less greasy or oily. You can even rub baking soda into your hair’s roots between washes for an odor-neutralizing treatment.

Evidence Is AnecdotalMuch of the evidence used to support the benefits of baking soda for hair is anecdotal (based on personal accounts and not hard evidence). However, it is possible that baking soda can produce some of the benefits claimed.For example, products (natural and chemical) with higher pH levels have been found to be effective at removing product buildup and drying out the scalp.However, long-term use of any high-pH product can cause hair to lose natural oils and cause skin irritation.

Evidence Is Anecdotal

Much of the evidence used to support the benefits of baking soda for hair is anecdotal (based on personal accounts and not hard evidence). However, it is possible that baking soda can produce some of the benefits claimed.For example, products (natural and chemical) with higher pH levels have been found to be effective at removing product buildup and drying out the scalp.However, long-term use of any high-pH product can cause hair to lose natural oils and cause skin irritation.

Much of the evidence used to support the benefits of baking soda for hair is anecdotal (based on personal accounts and not hard evidence). However, it is possible that baking soda can produce some of the benefits claimed.

For example, products (natural and chemical) with higher pH levels have been found to be effective at removing product buildup and drying out the scalp.However, long-term use of any high-pH product can cause hair to lose natural oils and cause skin irritation.

Some people find that washing hair with baking soda offers good results. For others, the risks can outweigh the benefits.

Disadvantages and Risks

Risks associated with using baking soda in the hair may include:

A Word From VerywellBe aware that baking soda may cause scalp irritation. If the scalp becomes irritated, it is best to use a gentle shampoo and conditioner to nourish the scalp and minimize redness, dryness, and flaking.—MARISA GARSHICK, MD, MEDICAL EXPERT BOARD

A Word From Verywell

Be aware that baking soda may cause scalp irritation. If the scalp becomes irritated, it is best to use a gentle shampoo and conditioner to nourish the scalp and minimize redness, dryness, and flaking.—MARISA GARSHICK, MD, MEDICAL EXPERT BOARD

Be aware that baking soda may cause scalp irritation. If the scalp becomes irritated, it is best to use a gentle shampoo and conditioner to nourish the scalp and minimize redness, dryness, and flaking.

—MARISA GARSHICK, MD, MEDICAL EXPERT BOARD

Marisa Garshick

How to Use Baking Soda for Hair

You may consider using baking soda as a natural alternative to commercial shampoos.

To make a baking soda hair solution, mix 1 tablespoon of baking soda with 1 cup of warm water.Apply the mixture to wet hair and massage into the hair and scalp. Rinse out thoroughly with water.

Arm & Hammer suggests mixing 1 tablespoon of baking soda with 1 tablespoon of shampoo and using this mixture to shampoo your hair.

You might consider adding anessential oilto your baking soda solution, such as:

Almond Oil Benefits for Skin and Hair

While baking soda can be a natural alternative to commercial shampoos for your hair care, it may not be a suitable option for everyone, especially for people with dry hair or a sensitive scalp.

Some alternatives to consider include:

11 Best Natural Oils for Hair Growth

Summary

Baking soda as part of your hair care routine might allow you to replace commercial shampoos. People report that baking soda dissolved in water can remove excess oil and buildup in hair, restore pH levels, treat dryness and dandruff, and lighten dyed hair.

However, the research does not support baking soda as a replacement for shampooing your hair. And research shows that using baking soda in your hair might actually cause more harm than good. It may lead to additional dryness, breakage, and irritation.

Many other products and ingredients might be better for your hair. These include clarifying and natural shampoos, conditioners, and natural oils.

The Benefits and Risks of Using Baking Soda on Your Face

19 SourcesVerywell Health uses only high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. Read oureditorial processto learn more about how we fact-check and keep our content accurate, reliable, and trustworthy.Gavazzoni Dias MFR.Pro and contra of cleansing conditioners.Skin Appendage Disord. 2019;5(3):131-134. doi:10.1159/000493588Graves A, Qualmann K.The science of baking soda. American Chemical Society.Biology Libre Texts. 2.4:The pH scale.Wyoming Mining Association.Trona.Arm & Hammer.5 beauty uses for baking soda.Gavazzoni Dias MF, de Almeida AM, Cecato PM, Adriano AR, Pichler J.The shampoo pH can affect the hair: myth or reality?Int J Trichology. 2014;6(3):95-99. doi:10.4103/0974-7753.139078Food and Drug Administration.Outsmarting poison ivy and other poisonous plants.Kids Health from Nemours.Dandruff.Clean Living Guide.No poo how to: baking soda + vinegar hair wash.Penn State Extension.Advice about vinegar.Ousaaid D, Laaroussi H, Bakour M, Ennaji H, Lyoussi B, El Arabi I.Antifungal and antibacterial activities of apple vinegar of different cultivars.Int J Microbiol. 2021;2021:6087671. doi:10.1155/2021/6087671American Academy of Dermatology Association.Dry shampoo: dermatologists' tips for getting your best results.D’Souza P, Rathi SK.Shampoo and conditioners: what a dermatologist should know?Indian J Dermatol. 2015;60(3):248-254. doi:10.4103/0019-5154.156355The ‘No Poo’ Method.No poo baking soda.Lin TK, Zhong L, Santiago JL.Anti-inflammatory and skin barrier repair effects of topical application of some plant oils.Int J Mol Sci. 2017;19(1):70. doi:10.3390/ijms19010070Kaushik V, Chogale R, Mhaskar S.Alternative protocol for hair damage assessment and comparison of hair care treatments.Int J Trichology. 2020;12(1):7-15. doi:10.4103/ijt.ijt_3_20Tiwari M, Upadhayay M.The medicinal plant components and applications (Aloe vera). J. Med. Plants Stud. 2018;6(3):89-95.Barak-Shinar D, Green LJ.Scalp seborrheic dermatitis and dandruff therapy using a herbal and zinc pyrithione-based therapy of shampoo and scalp lotion.J Clin Aesthet Dermatol. 2018;11(1):26-31.American Academy of Dermatology.Tips for healthier hair.

19 Sources

Verywell Health uses only high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. Read oureditorial processto learn more about how we fact-check and keep our content accurate, reliable, and trustworthy.Gavazzoni Dias MFR.Pro and contra of cleansing conditioners.Skin Appendage Disord. 2019;5(3):131-134. doi:10.1159/000493588Graves A, Qualmann K.The science of baking soda. American Chemical Society.Biology Libre Texts. 2.4:The pH scale.Wyoming Mining Association.Trona.Arm & Hammer.5 beauty uses for baking soda.Gavazzoni Dias MF, de Almeida AM, Cecato PM, Adriano AR, Pichler J.The shampoo pH can affect the hair: myth or reality?Int J Trichology. 2014;6(3):95-99. doi:10.4103/0974-7753.139078Food and Drug Administration.Outsmarting poison ivy and other poisonous plants.Kids Health from Nemours.Dandruff.Clean Living Guide.No poo how to: baking soda + vinegar hair wash.Penn State Extension.Advice about vinegar.Ousaaid D, Laaroussi H, Bakour M, Ennaji H, Lyoussi B, El Arabi I.Antifungal and antibacterial activities of apple vinegar of different cultivars.Int J Microbiol. 2021;2021:6087671. doi:10.1155/2021/6087671American Academy of Dermatology Association.Dry shampoo: dermatologists' tips for getting your best results.D’Souza P, Rathi SK.Shampoo and conditioners: what a dermatologist should know?Indian J Dermatol. 2015;60(3):248-254. doi:10.4103/0019-5154.156355The ‘No Poo’ Method.No poo baking soda.Lin TK, Zhong L, Santiago JL.Anti-inflammatory and skin barrier repair effects of topical application of some plant oils.Int J Mol Sci. 2017;19(1):70. doi:10.3390/ijms19010070Kaushik V, Chogale R, Mhaskar S.Alternative protocol for hair damage assessment and comparison of hair care treatments.Int J Trichology. 2020;12(1):7-15. doi:10.4103/ijt.ijt_3_20Tiwari M, Upadhayay M.The medicinal plant components and applications (Aloe vera). J. Med. Plants Stud. 2018;6(3):89-95.Barak-Shinar D, Green LJ.Scalp seborrheic dermatitis and dandruff therapy using a herbal and zinc pyrithione-based therapy of shampoo and scalp lotion.J Clin Aesthet Dermatol. 2018;11(1):26-31.American Academy of Dermatology.Tips for healthier hair.

Verywell Health uses only high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. Read oureditorial processto learn more about how we fact-check and keep our content accurate, reliable, and trustworthy.

Gavazzoni Dias MFR.Pro and contra of cleansing conditioners.Skin Appendage Disord. 2019;5(3):131-134. doi:10.1159/000493588Graves A, Qualmann K.The science of baking soda. American Chemical Society.Biology Libre Texts. 2.4:The pH scale.Wyoming Mining Association.Trona.Arm & Hammer.5 beauty uses for baking soda.Gavazzoni Dias MF, de Almeida AM, Cecato PM, Adriano AR, Pichler J.The shampoo pH can affect the hair: myth or reality?Int J Trichology. 2014;6(3):95-99. doi:10.4103/0974-7753.139078Food and Drug Administration.Outsmarting poison ivy and other poisonous plants.Kids Health from Nemours.Dandruff.Clean Living Guide.No poo how to: baking soda + vinegar hair wash.Penn State Extension.Advice about vinegar.Ousaaid D, Laaroussi H, Bakour M, Ennaji H, Lyoussi B, El Arabi I.Antifungal and antibacterial activities of apple vinegar of different cultivars.Int J Microbiol. 2021;2021:6087671. doi:10.1155/2021/6087671American Academy of Dermatology Association.Dry shampoo: dermatologists' tips for getting your best results.D’Souza P, Rathi SK.Shampoo and conditioners: what a dermatologist should know?Indian J Dermatol. 2015;60(3):248-254. doi:10.4103/0019-5154.156355The ‘No Poo’ Method.No poo baking soda.Lin TK, Zhong L, Santiago JL.Anti-inflammatory and skin barrier repair effects of topical application of some plant oils.Int J Mol Sci. 2017;19(1):70. doi:10.3390/ijms19010070Kaushik V, Chogale R, Mhaskar S.Alternative protocol for hair damage assessment and comparison of hair care treatments.Int J Trichology. 2020;12(1):7-15. doi:10.4103/ijt.ijt_3_20Tiwari M, Upadhayay M.The medicinal plant components and applications (Aloe vera). J. Med. Plants Stud. 2018;6(3):89-95.Barak-Shinar D, Green LJ.Scalp seborrheic dermatitis and dandruff therapy using a herbal and zinc pyrithione-based therapy of shampoo and scalp lotion.J Clin Aesthet Dermatol. 2018;11(1):26-31.American Academy of Dermatology.Tips for healthier hair.

Gavazzoni Dias MFR.Pro and contra of cleansing conditioners.Skin Appendage Disord. 2019;5(3):131-134. doi:10.1159/000493588

Graves A, Qualmann K.The science of baking soda. American Chemical Society.

Biology Libre Texts. 2.4:The pH scale.

Wyoming Mining Association.Trona.

Arm & Hammer.5 beauty uses for baking soda.

Gavazzoni Dias MF, de Almeida AM, Cecato PM, Adriano AR, Pichler J.The shampoo pH can affect the hair: myth or reality?Int J Trichology. 2014;6(3):95-99. doi:10.4103/0974-7753.139078

Food and Drug Administration.Outsmarting poison ivy and other poisonous plants.

Kids Health from Nemours.Dandruff.

Clean Living Guide.No poo how to: baking soda + vinegar hair wash.

Penn State Extension.Advice about vinegar.

Ousaaid D, Laaroussi H, Bakour M, Ennaji H, Lyoussi B, El Arabi I.Antifungal and antibacterial activities of apple vinegar of different cultivars.Int J Microbiol. 2021;2021:6087671. doi:10.1155/2021/6087671

American Academy of Dermatology Association.Dry shampoo: dermatologists' tips for getting your best results.

D’Souza P, Rathi SK.Shampoo and conditioners: what a dermatologist should know?Indian J Dermatol. 2015;60(3):248-254. doi:10.4103/0019-5154.156355

The ‘No Poo’ Method.No poo baking soda.

Lin TK, Zhong L, Santiago JL.Anti-inflammatory and skin barrier repair effects of topical application of some plant oils.Int J Mol Sci. 2017;19(1):70. doi:10.3390/ijms19010070

Kaushik V, Chogale R, Mhaskar S.Alternative protocol for hair damage assessment and comparison of hair care treatments.Int J Trichology. 2020;12(1):7-15. doi:10.4103/ijt.ijt_3_20

Tiwari M, Upadhayay M.The medicinal plant components and applications (Aloe vera). J. Med. Plants Stud. 2018;6(3):89-95.

Barak-Shinar D, Green LJ.Scalp seborrheic dermatitis and dandruff therapy using a herbal and zinc pyrithione-based therapy of shampoo and scalp lotion.J Clin Aesthet Dermatol. 2018;11(1):26-31.

American Academy of Dermatology.Tips for healthier hair.

Meet Our Medical Expert Board

Share Feedback

Was this page helpful?Thanks for your feedback!What is your feedback?OtherHelpfulReport an ErrorSubmit

Was this page helpful?

Thanks for your feedback!

What is your feedback?OtherHelpfulReport an ErrorSubmit

What is your feedback?