acid mantle supports the skin barrier, helps retain moisture, maintains a balance of beneficial microbes, and protects against environmental stressors. The high pH of baking soda can temporarily increase the acidity level, weakening the barrier over time.
The grainy texture also acts as a physical exfoliant. While gentle exfoliation can be beneficial, the particles are irregular and can create micro-tears on the surface, especially with repeated rubbing. This combination often leads to dryness, tightness, increased sensitivity, redness, and, in some cases, worsening breakouts, as the compromised skin barrier struggles to
