In general, you should mix equal parts baking soda and lukewarm water. How much you use depends on how many areas of your face you need to cover. [3] X Research source If you want to add a dash of apple cider vinegar to the mixture, this can serve as a toner. It’s optional, however. [4] X Research source Mix the ingredients together until they form a paste-like substance. [5] X Research source

Wet your hands with clean running water and then apply an antibacterial hand soap. Work the soap into a lather. [6] X Trustworthy Source Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Main public health institute for the US, run by the Dept. of Health and Human Services Go to source Scrub your hands for at least 20 seconds, making sure to wash the back of your hand, under your fingernails, and between your fingers. To keep track of time, you can try humming the “Happy Birthday” song twice. [7] X Trustworthy Source Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Main public health institute for the US, run by the Dept. of Health and Human Services Go to source Rinse your hands thoroughly and dry them off using a clean towel. [8] X Trustworthy Source Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Main public health institute for the US, run by the Dept. of Health and Human Services Go to source

Use your hands to gently rub a thin layer of the mixture to all your blackheads. [10] X Research source Gently massage the paste into your skin as this aids in the exfoliating process. [11] X Research source

Use cool water to completely rinse off the mixture. Pat your face dry with a clean towel. [13] X Research source Baking soda can dry out skin, so make sure you use an oil free moisturizer after rinsing and drying your face. [14] X Research source

Baking soda and honey, which is naturally antibacterial, can be added to wet skin for an exfoliating cleanse. [15] X Research source You could dry dabbing a cotton ball soaked in rubbing alcohol on your skin before applying baking soda and water. Rubbing alcohol disinfects the skin, which may increase the overall effectiveness of the treatment. [16] X Research source Adding salt to baking soda and water can help dry out oily skin. You can also try adding a bit of honey to the mixture. [17] X Research source

Add half a cup of baking soda to a tub of warm bathwater. Mix thoroughly and get in. [18] X Research source This can be an especially good treatment is your skin is irritated after being exposed to the chemicals in pool water. [19] X Research source