Benefits for Hands and Arms
Exfoliation: The fine grains of baking soda act as a physical scrub, buffing away the dry, dead skin cells that settle into fine lines and make wrinkles appear deeper.
Brightening: The mild bleaching agents often found in white toothpaste (like hydrogen peroxide or silica) can help fade the surface layer of “age spots” or sun spots.
Softening: By removing the rough outer layer of the epidermis, the skin on the arms and hands feels significantly softer to the touch immediately after use.
The Skin-Brightening Hand & Arm Scrub
To make this remedy effective for wrinkles and spots without being overly harsh, it is best to include a moisturizing base.
Ingredients:
1 tablespoon Baking Soda: Acts as the primary exfoliating agent.
1 teaspoon Plain White Toothpaste: Contains cleaning agents to help with spot brightening.
1 tablespoon Extra Virgin Olive Oil or Coconut Oil: Essential to provide “slip” and prevent the baking soda from stripping the skin’s natural oils.
Preparation & Application:
Combine: In a small glass bowl, mix the baking soda and toothpaste until they start to form a crumbly paste.
Bind: Add the oil and stir until the mixture becomes a smooth, spreadable cream.
Massage: Apply the paste to your hands and arms. Use gentle, circular motions for about 2–3 minutes, paying extra attention to the knuckles and any visible dark spots.
Wait: Allow the mixture to sit on the skin for an additional 2 minutes to let the brightening agents work.
Rinse: Wash the area thoroughly with lukewarm water. Ensure all traces of toothpaste are removed.
Seal: Pat dry with a soft towel and immediately apply a rich moisturizer or a few drops of Vitamin E oil to lock in the smoothness.
Thoughtful Precautions
Sun Sensitivity: Because this scrub removes dead skin cells, your “new” skin will be more sensitive to the sun. Always wear sunscreen on your hands and arms after using this treatment to prevent the dark spots from returning.
Avoid Irritation: Do not use this remedy if you have any cuts, scratches, or freshly shaven skin on your arms, as the toothpaste and soda will cause a stinging sensation.
Consistency: For the best results with dark spots, use this treatment once a week. Consistency is more effective than using it multiple days in a row, which could irritate the skin.
