Baking soda is a superstar. It solves many of our problems at home.

We can polish our silverware with it, unclog shower-heads and sinks easily, de-stink that refrigerator and even remove burnt grease from utensils.

But is it any good as a natural deodorant? No, it is not and here is why.

The skin is acidic on purpose. Baking soda, on the other hand, is too alkaline. When we apply baking soda on our skin, it breaks down and destroys our skin's protective acid mantle and lipid barrier. This is the protective layer that keeps skin moisturized and supple. When our skin's protective layer is weakened, it loses moisture, becomes dry and flaky, making it easier for disease-causing germs to infiltrate the deeper layers of skin. Redness, rashes and breakouts are no fun.

While most of us may not experience issues in the first few days or months when using baking soda as a natural deodorant, long term use will cause permanent damage.