I usually wouldn’t post something like this, but I’m home sick with a brutal bacterial infection (bronchitis, sinusitis, double ear infection, and a throat infection). I was talking to a friend about remedies, and while I believe in OTC medications (thanks, Advil Cold & Sinus/Robitussin DM), my friend prefers “detox” baths with Epsom salts, baking soda, tea tree oil, and hydrogen peroxide.
I wanted to remind everyone that baking soda and skin don’t mix well. Adding hydrogen peroxide to baking soda doesn’t neutralize it—they react to create water, carbon dioxide, and sodium hydroxide, making the water more basic. Our skin needs to be slightly acidic to maintain healthy bacteria, and basic solutions can damage skin proteins and lipids.
There’s no such thing as a detoxifying bath. Our liver does a great job of removing toxins. So, enjoy a relaxing hot bath (and moisturize after!) but avoid harmful additives. Stay healthy, and don’t forget your sunscreen this summer!
Based on my research, I would strongly advise against mixing hydrogen peroxide and baking soda and applying it to your skin. While these two common household products may seem harmless, combining them can create a dangerous chemical reaction that can seriously irritate and damage your skin. Hydrogen peroxide is a bleaching agent and mild acid, while baking soda is a basic compound. When mixed, they react to produce water, carbon dioxide, and sodium hydroxide - a highly caustic substance that can burn and corrode the skin. This mixture is not meant for topical use and can lead to redness, swelling, stinging, and even chemical burns. Skin health and safety should always come first. I would recommend avoiding any homemade concoctions containing hydrogen peroxide and baking soda, and instead stick to gentle, dermatologist-approved cleansers and moisturizers to care for your skin. It’s simply not worth the risk of potential injury. Your skin deserves to be treated with care and caution.