Can Baking Soda and Salt Treat Psoriasis?

There is no scientific evidence to support the use of baking soda (sodium bicarbonate) combined with table salt as a treatment for psoriasis. Psoriasis is a chronic, immune-mediated inflammatory skin disorder characterized by rapid keratinocyte proliferation, epidermal hyperplasia, and sustained T-cell activation. Effective management requires evidence-based interventions that target underlying immunopathogenic mechanisms.

Topical therapies—such as corticosteroids, vitamin D analogues (e.g., calcipotriol), and calcineurin inhibitors—are first-line treatments for mild-to-moderate plaque psoriasis. For moderate-to-severe disease, systemic agents—including methotrexate, cyclosporine, and acitretin—or biologic therapies targeting specific cytokines (e.g., TNF-α, IL-17, IL-23) are recommended based on clinical guidelines from organizations such as the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) and the National Psoriasis Foundation (NPF).

While sodium bicarbonate and sodium chloride may have mild keratolytic or soothing effects in certain dermatologic contexts—such as temporary relief of pruritus or scaling—their use lacks mechanistic rationale for altering psoriatic inflammation or disease progression. Moreover, unregulated topical application carries risks, including skin barrier disruption, irritation, contact dermatitis, and potential electrolyte imbalance if applied over large surface areas or compromised skin.

Patients considering complementary approaches should consult a board-certified dermatologist before initiating any non-evidence-based regimen. Relying on unsubstantiated home remedies may delay access to proven therapies, increase risk of complications, and contribute to disease flares or long-term sequelae such as psoriatic arthritis.