Dark or brown spots occur due to exposure of skin to the sun and that causes excessive production of melanin which turns the skin to darker. These spots are also known as sun spots (caused due to sun exposure), age spots (caused due to aging) or hyper-pigmentation.
This appears mainly on the areas like face, neck, back, chest, shoulders, hands and legs where it is easily exposed to sun, dirt or impurities and can be seen most commonly in adults of above 40 years. Hormonal imbalance, stress, vitamin deficiency, aging, acne, weak functioning of body parts are some of the factors causing black or dark spots on the skin.
Although these spots are harmless to the skin but make you look unattractive and affect your self – esteem. Don’t panic, there are many natural remedies that are easily available at home to fade away these spots and brighten up your skin with even skin tone.
Baking soda comes first in treating many health and beauty ailments including dark spots. Here are some of its properties that help you to know how it works for fading dark spots and acne scars on the skin.
- It has an excellent exfoliating property that exfoliates the skin to remove dirt, dead skin cells and excess oil that trapped in the skin pores to remove darkness and roughness to brown spots.
- It effectively encourages the growth of collagen to get rid of the spots or scars on the skin. This also helps to shed the skin and thus encourages the growth of new skin.
- It maintains the balance of the pH levels that in turn helps to prevent the bacteria or any other microbes affecting the immune system and causing these spots on the skin.
- It acts as a drying agent that dries out the skin pores by removing the oil and dirt which are trapped in the skin and clears the age spots and scars.
- It has skin lightening and bleaching property that lighten up these black spots naturally and leaves you with even skin tone.
After knowing about its properties, want to give a trial to this baking soda for dark spots. Then here are the best and most effective ways of using baking soda to get rid of dark spots.
Method – 1: (Baking Soda and Water)
Baking soda mixed with water will exhibit certain properties that help you to get rid of the many problems including removal of hyperpigmentation. This process is used to treat dark spots on face, neck, back and legs.
Steps to be followed…
- Add 1 teaspoon of baking soda in enough of water.
- Stir well to make it a fine paste and cleanse your skin thoroughly.
- Dry it slightly to damp your skin and then apply this paste on the dark spots affected areas.
- Massage it gently in circular motions for 2 – 3 minutes.
- Leave it on for another few minutes to get dried completely.
- Rinse it with lukewarm water followed by cold water.
- Dry your skin thoroughly with a soft towel and apply moisturizer that suits your skin.
- Continue doing the same process for 2 – 3 times a week on a regular basis to get rid of these dark spots.
Note:
- Or add 1 teaspoon of baking soda in 1/4 cup of water. Stir well and apply this mix on the affected areas using a cotton ball at night time before going to bed. Rinse it off in the morning.
- Or else add some water to baking soda and a little of oatmeal to make it as a scrub paste. Use this to scrub the dark spots or scars affected skin areas.
- Alternatively, add 3 tablespoons of baking soda in 1 tablespoon of warm water to make it a fine paste. Use this paste to scrub the dark or brown spots on the face by massaging it in gentle circular motions. Rinse it with warm water and dry your skin.
Method – 2: (Baking Soda and Lemon Juice for Dark Spots)
Both lemon and baking soda have natural bleaching and skin lightening property that fades away the spots or scars on the skin and shines it with an even skin tone.
Steps to be followed…
- Add 1 teaspoon of baking soda and enough of lemon juice in a bowl.
- Stir it and it starts fizzing for few seconds.
- Mix well to make a fine paste.
- Apply this paste on the sunspots affected skin areas.
- Leave it for few minutes and rinse it off with water.
- Repeat the same process regularly to get relief from brown spots and scars on the skin.
Note: For you’re having dry and sensitive skin then add some water by lessening the quantity of lemon juice in the process.
Tips and Precautions:
- Make sure to wash your face and remove any makeup before applying baking soda methods and also before going to sleep at night time to get rid of the problem.
- Avoid overusing of baking soda, as it dries out your skin and also, make sure to apply some moisturizer after applying baking soda to prevent dryness, irritation, and itching.
- Hydrate yourself with plenty of water, exercise regularly, consume healthy food, do some yoga and meditation to get relief from stress, wear sunscreen while going out, include citrus foods in your diet, etc. to get rid of the dark spots on the skin.
- Always it’s recommended to do some skin patch test while using any new ingredient on the skin to know whether it causing any allergic reaction or irritation on the skin.
- Never ever rub baking soda vigorously on the skin. In certain cases, baking soda may cause some stinging and itching sensations then wash off the mix immediately on the skin and consult your dermatologist to get relief from these brown spots.
That’s all for now about dark spots and try these baking soda methods to get rid of these spots and to enhance your beauty. But don’t forget to share your experience with us.
Hi, do the lemons juice have to be from fresh cut lemon or can i use the lemon juice that’s already comes in the battle?
For Best Results, always use freshly squeezed lemon juice rather than bottled or stored lemon juice.
Hi can i put baking soda on dark spots caused by chicken pox? Should i put it right away after the scab has been removed or should i wait for fee days before applying baking soda?
Yes, you can use baking soda (exfoliates the skin) to get rid of chicken pox or its scars on the skin. Just simply mix few drops of water in baking soda to make a paste. Apply it on the affected area. Rinse it off with water after it dries on the skin to get relief from the itching and irritation.
Baking Soda is brilliant for removing the blisters and pain of Shingles (Herpes zoster) when mixed with fresh gel from the leaves of Aloe vera. Am certain it will work the same for all Herpes diseases such as Cold sores and Chicken Pox.
i hv a freckles on my cheeks area so can i use this baking soda on my face
Yes, you can use baking soda paste for treating your freckles. But make sure to apply moisturizer after using this baking soda.
Can the lemon be substituted with lime?
Yes, you can use lime instead of lemon but prefer fresh lime juice.
How often we should try the baking soda/lemon mask and is it after washing the face?
Wash your face thoroughly and pat dry it. Then apply this baking soda – lemon paste on dark spots for twice a week on regular basis.
What is baking soda.. Baking powder or khane wala soda?
It is edible baking soda which we use for cooking.
baking powder n baking soda are different.. We should use baking soda for applying on face..
Baking soda should be the same as bicarbonate of soda right ?
Yes, Baking soda (or) sodium bicarbonate (or) bicarbonate of soda – all are same, which we use to get rid of these dark spots. Make sure that not to use baking powder.
Hi! what if i apply the whole face instead of affected area?
Baking soda causes dryness if applied on the whole face. If you have dry or sensitive skin, then it causes redness and rashes. So, always it’s suggested to apply moisturizer to your skin after applying baking soda.
Can I leave the lemon and baking soda
Paste on my face over night and rinse
In the morning?
No, you should not leave this mix on your face for overnight, as both these ingredients are drying agents that may cause irritation, redness and dryness. So, rinse your face after 5 minutes which is enough for treating your dark spots.
Can I put d left over in d fridge
No, it’s not preferred to use the leftover mix. Just mix enough quantities and use it freshly.
Baking soda and lemon worked for my daughter and I. It also zaps acne fast. It’s my go to remedy whenever I get a breakout. Regular non flavored yogurt also works well. Leave on your face for about 10 minutes, wash it off with cold water and your face will thank you. I used 2-3 times a week. Results were seen in about a week.
Thanks for your suggestion, yogurt acts as a natural cleanser and has antibacterial and skin soothing properties that reduce acne and zits. you can use either plain yogurt or try mixing some lemon juice or honey or oatmeal in it. But rinse your face with warm water and then cold water to close your skin pores.
Hi, which one is regular non flavoured yoghurt, is that the name of d yoghurt needed?
Plain yogurt is also called as regular non – flavored yogurt.
Does the yogurt mask help with uneven and oily skin.
Yes, you can try yogurt mask for treating uneven and oily skin.
Can I use baking soda in underarm, knees and elbows?
Yes, you can use baking soda to lighten up your underarms, knees and elbows. But don’t overdo it, as baking soda causing dryness, irritation and rashes (in certain times).
Can I use the remedy to get black marks left from acne
Yes, you can use this baking soda to get rid of scars or black left over acne marks. Remember to moisture the affected area to prevent dryness.
Is this can also remove freckles?
Yes, Baking soda removes freckles. Just mix some baking soda with water (or few drops of castor oil) and apply it on the affected skin. Leave it for few minutes and rinse off. But remember to apply a light moisturizer to prevent dryness on the skin.
How often should I use baking soda and lime juice remedy?
You can use once or twice a week, depending on the severity of your dark spots. But it’s must to apply moisturizer to prevent dryness and irritation.
Can i use it on my inner thighs and butt? I want to wear a bikini but i cant because my skun there is 5 times darker and is very embarrassing
No, it’s not suggested to use baking soda in that sensitive skin areas.
click the below link to know about the best remedies used to lighten up your inner thighs.
http://diyremedies.org/get-rid-of-dark-inner-thighs/
how long does it take on average to see results?
It depends on your skin type and how systematically you’re using it.
It might take 2 – 3 weeks on an average to see the results.
Thanks for the info…
Can i use it under eyes for dark circles?
No, it’s not preferred to use baking soda under your eyes for dark circles. Baking soda causes dryness and irritation on a sensitive skin or eye area. Use almond oil or castor oil or rosewater or Used tea bags for getting rid of dark circles.
Click on this link http://diyremedies.org/?s=dark+circles for best remedies to get rid of dark circles
Thanks for the info. I will try.
CANT I USE BAKING POWDER
Both Baking Soda and Baking Powder resembles same in some cookings. But for skin care, always use baking soda but not baking powder.
Is baking powder same as bi carb soda
Baking soda and bicarbonate of soda are different names for the same thing..
Thank you so much for the info i have been looking for,how about strtch markes? Does it help in removing?
Yes, baking soda helps to fade the stretch marks. For more information, click on this below link.
http://diyremedies.org/stretch-marks-with-baking-soda/
Can I use it for the hyperpigmentation on my face (cheeks)?
yes, you can but remember to apply lotion or moisturizer after rinsing your face.
Everytime my daughter who’s now 13, gets an insect bite or a bruise it leaves a dark spot. Will this remedy help to clear up the spots? As she gets older she’s more bothered by them.
Yes, you can apply baking soda paste (mix baking soda and water) on the dark spots caused due to an insect bite or a bruise. Rinse off after few minutes and apply moisturizer after drying the area.
Do this work for black women too, because or dark spot come not form the SUN but scars and pimples.
Yes, application of baking soda paste will help to clear acne or pimple scars.
can this paste works on pimple dark mark which were left after the pimples on face
Yes, you can use this baking soda paste for treating your pimple marks but apply moisturizer after rinsing your face to prevent dryness and irritation (especially if you’ve dry skin). If you have sensitive skin, then avoid using this baking soda paste. Try other natural remedies like aloe vera, honey.
Tnx a lot for de information shared,hope it wl help me too.Keep on sharing more infor dear,God bless u
Can I use the mix in the mustache area…( on top of my lip)
It’s not suggested to apply it on the mustache area. You can try aloe vera gel or lime juice mixed in yogurt or onion juice with honey to clear your problem.
Dose this home remedies of baking soda n lime help in fading away the blemishes on the face too?
Yes, you can try it but don’t forget to apply moisturizer on the applied skin area to prevent dryness or irritation.
Dark spots only on nose area do it works baking powder n lemon
Yes, you can use baking soda and lemon mix to get rid of dark spots on your nose.
After pregency I have brown spots on my cheeks ……can I use baking soda with lemon ???and hoe many times I used to it works fast …my skin is sensitive
Both lemon and baking soda are drying agents. So, it’s best to avoid this method.
Go through this link to get the best remedies for clearing your brown spots.
http://diyremedies.org/diy-dark-spots/
What’s the different among backing soda, backing powder and soda powder ?
When I went to market there were no backing soda but soda powder and backing powder, which one should I buy ?
It’s make me confused ,,,
Baking soda and baking powder are different products but both acts as leavening agents. For skincare regimen, you should use baking soda, not baking powder. You can buy baking soda or sodium bicarbonate or bicarb soda.
Hi Sruthika
Can I use baking soda on my face. Iam a lupus patient . My cheeks are all red from the sun and my skin is very sensitive.
No, you should not use baking soda on your face for treating lupus, as it makes your condition worse. Wear sunscreen and sunglasses before going out in the sun.
Click on the link to know how to treat lupus in some natural ways.
http://diyremedies.org/lupus/
Thanks for this information, I really need it I always shy away from people because of my face thank you God bless
What kind of moisturizer do you think is best?
You can use any natural moisturizer like honey, coconut oil, aloe vera gel, olive oil, shea butter on your skin after rinsing off baking soda paste from your skin.
Or Go through the link for homemade coconut oil moisturizer
http://diyremedies.org/coconut-oil-skin-moisturizer/
will it work on scars that have been there for ages?
Yes, it will but you didn’t get quick results. Simply apply baking soda paste (baking soda+water) on the scars and scrub it gently for a minute and rinse off. Do it once or twice daily.
You can also apply aloe vera gel or vitamin E oil or fresh lemon juice on the scars to get rid of the problem.
have blackheads on my thighs n it leaves darkspots…what can I use pls
Blackheads on thighs are caused due to sweat, improper hygiene, wearing tight clothes, hormonal imbalances, overweight, etc. You can try some methods like 1. Mixing 3/4 cup of ground almonds and 1/4 cup of coconut oil with 8 drops of lemon essential oil. Apply this mix on the inner thighs and rinse off after 15 – 20 minutes.
2. Mix 1 cup of baking soda with 1/4 cup of water and add 8 drops of clove essential oil and 3 teaspoons of almond oil. Stir well and apply this mix on the inner thighs. Rinse off after 10 – 15 minutes using water before going to shower.
Do you have any suggestions for stretch marks that just won’t fade? I have had some for about ten years and they’re on my cleavage and so embarrassing.☹️
You can use some natural remedies like aloe vera, castor oil, coconut oil, lemon, sugar, egg white, baking soda, etc. on your stretch marks to get rid of the problem. Also, drink plenty of water to moisturize your body.
For more information, click the below links.
http://diyremedies.org/aloe-vera-for-stretch-marks/
http://diyremedies.org/stretch-marks-with-baking-soda/
http://diyremedies.org/stretch-marks-with-coconut-oil/
http://diyremedies.org/stretch-marks/
Am nearly sixty will this work for me? I also have a big scar at the back of my lower my leg. Can I use this method?
It’s Best to use Aloe vera gel (or) vitamin E oil (or) any natural oil massage (or) lemon juice on regular basis for treating your scar on your leg.
thnk you for the information….thats all i need for long.
its amazing foundation for skin ..i will be try 👍
Hi Sruthika, I have a recurring scarring problem caused by shaving ingrown hair on my face. My jaw and neck area have patchy dark areas and I want to know if this bicarb soda and water solution will work for me. Please advise? Thanks
It’s best to use fresh aloe vera gel (or) vitamin E oil (or) castor oil (or) other moisturizing ingredients for treating your dark spots caused due to shaving (Razor Bumps).
Can I use this on my upper lip area . I use to shave the hairs off my lip and it caused dark spots from razor burn. Will that help lighten
For treating Razor Burn, mix 1 tablespoon of baking soda in 1 cup of water and soak a cotton ball in it. Dab the cotton ball on the affected area and rinse off after 5 minutes with cool water.
For treating dark spots caused by razor burn, apply vitamin E oil or castor oil on the affected area after exfoliating the face.
Is baking soda same as bicarbonate baking soda? Cause bicarbonate baking soda is quite rough to make a paste.
Both baking soda and bicarbonate of soda are same and they have some rough texture (used to exfoliate the skin) but not that much coarse.
Can I use baking powder in place of baking soda?
Both are different. You have to use baking soda but not baking powder for skin.
I am woman with very dark neck. Which mix would work best? Baking Soda and water or the mix that has Baking Soda and Lemon? And how often? Thank you
You can use either method of baking soda for once or twice a week for treating dark neck or simply go through these links for lightening your dark neck problem.
http://diyremedies.org/dark-neck/
http://diyremedies.org/lemon-for-dark-neck/
Can I use baking soda and water on dark spots on my legs?
Yes, you can use this baking soda paste on your legs to clear dark spots. Apply it for 5 – 7 minutes and rinse off the area with water. Dry your skin and apply some light moisturizer.
Hi, can you mix baking soda with lemon, sugar n almond oil for treating acne, smoothening n lightening skin?
The combination of baking soda, sugar, lemon juice and almond oil will become like an exfoliating mix. You can use it for skin lightening or for treating acne but it should not be done daily. It should be done for once a week. It should not be used for treating severe form of acne or cystic acne.
Hi
I am sixty years. I have terrible pigmentation on my face. I have patches of it on the forehead and the chin. Will this soda and water mask help. help . In how much time can I hope to see results
Baking soda exfoliates the skin and clears pigmentation on the skin. Pigmentation is a common problem faced at your age. Other than using baking soda, you can apply aloe vera gel, honey, almond oil, oatmeal or olive oil on the affected area to get rid of pigmentation problem.
Always time depends upon the one’s skin ability to heal itself.
Can you substitute lemon essential oil for the lemon juice?
Yes, you can use, but prefer to use fresh lemon juice for best results.
Hi
My skin is super sensitive, is the any chance that the baking soda and lemon juice ( even when water is added) will irritate my skin.
Avoid using Baking soda and lemon juice for treating your dark spots, as they irritate the sensitive skin.
You can apply aloe vera gel (or) rose water with sandalwood paste (or) castor oil (or) almond oil (or) place a potato peel on the affected area to get rid of the dark spots.
I have dark spots around my eyes will this baking soda remedy work for me.
Prefer to apply aloe vera gel (or) almond oil (or) milk (or) coconut oil (or) rosewater regularly rather than using baking soda around the eyes, why because baking soda dries out and causes irritation on the sensitive eye area.
I have dark spot under my eyes will the baking soda remedy help for me.
Pls can lemon be squeezed nd stored in the fridge and if yes pls for how long can I preserve it
For best results, always use freshly squeezed lemon juice rather than using stored lemon juice in the refrigerator.
If it’s not possible for you to squeeze freshly, you can preserve it for 2 – 3 days.
hi i had a lot of dark spots on my legs after scratching it because of insect bites, some of my darkspots are not easily fade. how many times should i use baking soda and lemon for my problem?
Yes, you can apply Baking soda paste (baking soda+water) on the dark spots caused due to insect bites. You can also use aloe vera gel (or) vitamin E oil (or) lemon juice (or) potato juice (or) honey) on the affected area to get rid of dark spots.
My back and stomach is dark due to scratching… After using baking soda,wen wil t go
Baking soda exfoliates the skin and removes dead cells along with balancing the pH levels of the skin to get rid of itching (or scratching). You can use Baking soda paste (baking soda+water) on the affected skin areas to get rid of darkness on the skin. Time depends on various matters like regular applications, healthy diet, staying hydrated, other natural remedies (like orange juice+turmeric, gramflour+water, aloe vera, etc.)
I have used baking soda as my face for several months. It has slightly lightened the pigmentation and the rough scaley spots (actenic keratosis) are smoother. The blackheads are still there but smaller. ais there an internal remedy for blackheads. I have always been plagued with them but after I turned 45 they are in every pore (seemingly). I suspect the problem is systemic but have not found a remedy. Zinc? would that help? Any suggestions?
The Best Foods to Get Rid of Blackheads internally are:
Vitamin C – Heals and repairs the skin tissue and protect the skin from the attack of free radicals.
Proteins – Help you to eat less food (oily or processed foods) and thereby heals acne or blackheads.
Omega – 3 fatty acids or probiotic-rich foods.
Selenium Mineral – Helps to maintain healthy skin.
Avoid Foods like Dairy products, sugar, high glycemic foods, junk or fast foods, etc.
can I use baking soda and honey for dark spot on my face, and after washing off still use d honey as the moisturizer..
Yes, you can use baking soda and honey paste as a scrub for treating your dark spots on the face. Rinse off with lukewarm water and use it 2 – 3 times a week.
Thanks for this wonderful post on dark spots,, will the baking soda remedy help for my eyes dark spots?
Do you mean Dark Circles under the eyes?
For treating dark circles or dark spots, you can apply almond oil, cucumber, rose water, potato, used tea bags, honey, etc.
I’m having black flat moles on my face. Is baking soda with lemon juice will help to disappear that?
Yes, you can use this baking soda – lemon juice mix on the flat moles. Also, you can use aloe vera gel, almond or vitamin E oil, water diluted apple cider vinegar, honey, castor oil – baking soda, garlic slice or paste and banana peel on the affected area to get rid of black flat moles on the face.
what can be use to treat sunburn
Here are some tips that deal with your sunburn.
1. Place a cold compress (or) take a cool shower.
2. Apply fresh aloe vera gel (or) cucumber juice (or) raw cold milk (or) yogurt (or) potato juice (or) Baking soda paste (baking soda+cool water), etc. on your sunburned areas of the skin.
3. Drink plenty of water and other healthy fluids to stay hydrated.
4. Avoid the usage of harsh soaps.
5. As a preventive step, apply sunscreen before stepping out from home to prevent the effect of harmful sun’s UV rays.
Apply plain yogurt to sunburn. Let it dry on your skin, then rinse it off with cool water. The pain from the burn will be gone. I’ve tried it, and it works.
Thanks for sharing your experience…
is it okay for me to mix olive oil and baking soda and apply it as a moisturise for my body.
No, you should not apply a combination of baking soda and olive oil as a moisturizer to your body, as baking soda causes skin irritation, redness, and itching if applied for a longer time.
This has been very informative learning about dark spot remedie. I appreciate your answers and help. I cannot wait to try the remedy of water/baking soda for my spots on my face. Thanks again.
Can I soak the feet in water+baking soda+ lemon juice instead of applying the paste? if yes, how long should the foot soak last? And how often can I repeat it so that the dark spots disappear? Also, is it ok to wear sandals after the soak? I heard that lemon can cause hyperpigmentation… Thank you!
Not that much effective to make it as your foot soak for treating dark spots.
Can I use baking soda with water on my 11 years old daughter’s face? She has some freckles and a small mole on the chin
Will baking soda help for both problems? Thank you!
Yes, you can use baking soda for treating freckles and mole on your daughter’s face.
Simply pour few drops of castor oil in 1 teaspoon of baking soda to make a paste. Apply it on the freckles and mole on the face. Make sure to secure that mole with a bandage. Leave it for few minutes and rinse off with water. Repeat it regularly till your daughter get relief from dark spots and mole on the skin.
Finally, make sure to apply a face moisturizer after rinsing the mix to prevent dryness or irritation.
How to get rid of dark spots on hands and face. Maybe it’s to late for me 72yr old
As per your age, you can use aloe vera gel, potatoes, castor oil, gram flour & rose water, apple cider vinegar or baking soda for treating your dark (or age) spots But not only depend on the baking soda.
Hello,
I have pimple dark black spots on my cheeks… I want to get relief from these..
Could u plz tell me how longer I use baking soda to get rid of these spots… Do I use it daily for good results?
The time will depend on your skin healing nature. Yes, you can apply baking soda once daily but make sure to apply moisturizer after using baking soda.
Or you can also apply fresh aloe vera gel, potato juice or turmeric with water to get rid of these scars or spots on the skin.
Is there something that will lighten or remove darkness in the inner corners of the eyes due to sinus congestion ? Thank you.
Inflamed sinuses will affect the normal flow of the blood in the capillaries behind the eyes and nasal cavities and thereby result in the darkness or puffy eyes.
Here are few tips that help you in getting rid of darkness in the inner corners of the eyes caused by sinusitis.
1. Apply a thin layer of almond oil on your dark spots at night before bedtime and rinse off with cold water in the next morning.
2. Dab some pure rose water on the eyelids using a cotton swab and rinse it after 10 – 15 minutes.
3. Stay hydrated to thin the mucus inside the sinus and enhance its drainage.
4. Apply cold compress or cucumber slices
5. Maintain a healthy diet by including leafy green veggies, whole grains, iron rich foods and plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables.
6. Elevate your head by placing an extra pillow while sleeping to drain out the mucus and moisturize your skin.
7. Take a hot shower or use humidifier to clear the mucus causing sinus and thereby darkness.