Kitchen Powders

Baking Soda

Baking soda is an alkaline white powder, a combination of bicarbonate of soda and cream of tartar, used as a leavening agent in baking instead of yeast. Sometimes, people get desperate and apply baking soda topically to blisters to dry them up. While baking soda is known to reduce inflammation and itch when used in the bath, the idea of applying it topically makes me shudder. Baking soda can sting due to its sodium (salt) content when applied to open blisters. I don't suggest the experience, even though it is safe to do so. Baking soda can cause a slight sting, even on unopened lesions, but this sensation should subside quickly. If not, rinse it off immediately with cool water.

Although I haven't tried it myself, you might consider mixing a bit of baking soda into a base of aloe vera gel to ease the burn. Aloe Vera is also known to relieve an itch. Dab a clean Q-Tip into a bit of aloe vera gel. Then, dab it into some baking soda. Pinch the Q-Tip lightly with your fingers to moisten the baking soda, and then apply it to the blisters. Be sure to clean your skin and replace your baking soda dressing at least every 12 hours. Never dab your Q-Tip back into aloe vera or baking soda after touching blisters to avoid contamination. Instead, use a new Q-Tip. If you don't have Q-Tips, make a tiny bit of paste in the palm of your hand and use your finger to dab the paste on the lesions before thoroughly washing your hands.

My favorite way to use baking soda is to add a handful or two to a warm bath and soak for 20 minutes. Although this defeats the purpose of drying out blisters, it does help soothe aches, relieve itchiness, and speed up healing.

Cornstarch 

Cornstarch is a powder made from corn. Using cornstarch can be a way to relieve irritated skin from conditions associated with dampness. Dusting cornstarch onto the skin's surface, such as under the breasts, between the thighs, and on a baby's bottom, can help keep the skin dry. However, should it be used to keep herpes lesions dry? No. Cornstarch should be used only temporarily, sparingly, and on healthy skin.

Note: NEVER use cornstarch to relieve dampness or irritated skin inside skin folds, such as near the vagina, penis, or anus. And don't apply it to open herpes lesions. Body movements (such as walking, sitting, squirming, and sexual intercourse) can dislodge cornstarch into body folds, where natural yeast and bacteria begin to feed on the sugars in cornstarch, leading to yeast and bacterial infections. You don't ever want to increase the chance of a secondary infection. ​Instead, use a blow dryer to dry damp, irritated skin. Wear cotton underwear and looser clothing so your skin can breathe and remain ventilated.

Arrowroot

Arrowroot is a West Indian plant, similar to sweet potato and yams, from which starch is made. It's usually made into a powder used as flour and a thickener in foods like puddings. However, it's also used for cosmetic purposes and is incredibly soothing to the skin. It softens the skin and helps dry out blemishes or heal wounds. Arrowroot powder is safe enough for a baby's skin. You can apply it directly to lesions. Arrowroot also helps alleviate nausea and diarrhea and aids in recovery from illness.