beauty:design:life

What if I told you about a miracle product that will make your hair soft and shiny, exfoliate your face and body without causing irritation, clean and exfoliate tired summer feet, soften cuticles, whiten teeth, and can be purchased at your regular grocery store for only a dollar or two?

You'll be amazed at what baking soda can do.

I've been using baking soda for years to exfoliate my face - just mix baking soda with water, scrub, rinse, go.  But it was only recently that I learned of a few other baking soda tricks perfect for someone who likes their beautifying procedures cheap and easy.

As previously mentioned, baking soda is a great exfoliant.  The granules are fine enough where they won't irritate sensitive skin like mine, but large enough to give soft, glowing skin.  Sprinkle a fair amount on exfoliating gloves and mix with your regular body wash for an instant and effective exfoliant.

Hair

After years of products, heat, and styling, your hair is tired.  Mix 1/2 tsp of baking soda with your shampoo to wake it up by removing buildup and adding shine.  I tried this for the first time yesterday and my hair was swingy, shiny, and soft, looking healthier than it had in months.  I'm definitely incorporating this into my weekly routine!  You can also use baking soda as dry shampoo if you don't have time to wash - it'll soak up oils and freshen up day-old hair.

For an at-home pedicure, add 2 tbsp baking soda and 1 tbsp table salt to a tub of hot water and soak your feet for 15 minutes to get rid of the embedded grime.  Then scrub skin with a paste of baking soda and water for ultimate softness!

Sprinkle baking soda on your nail brush and scrub your finger and toe nails for soft cuticles and healthy nails.

Brush teeth with a pinch of baking soda and table salt, or sprinkle baking soda on top of your regular toothpaste before brushing for natural teeth whitening! 

There are so many more baking soda tricks - do you have any to share?

And, of course, if you're not into the food-as-beauty-product thing, you can always make cupcakes!