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.

A person washing their hair

ondacaracola photography / Getty Images

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.

ondacaracola photography / Getty Images

What’s In Baking Soda?

Marisa Garshick

Baking soda is composed of sodium and bicarbonate ions.

It is known for its alkalizing effects at a pH of 9.

One thing that apple cider vinegar might help with is treating dandruff related to a fungal cause.

It may take a few washes to achieve the desired effect.

However, there is no evidence to back up such claims.

It might be an alternative that allows hair to look less greasy or oily.

you could even rub baking soda into your hair’s roots between washes for an odor-neutralizing treatment.

However, it is possible that baking soda can produce some of the benefits claimed.

Some people find that washing hair with baking soda offers good results.

For others, the risks can outweigh the benefits.

Rinse out thoroughly with water.

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.

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