According to Joshua Zeichner, MD, "baking soda has an alkaline pH, whereas the skin's natural pH is slightly acidic, which is important for proper skin-cell activity." "Increasing the pH might cause irritation and compromise of the skin barrier." Baking soda + under-eye bags = bad combination. It causes your skin to lose its acidity, which can lead to more breakouts. Instead, try using a gentle face wash made of water, glycerin, apple cider vinegar, and salt. (Salt is also good for getting those stubborn blackheads under the skin.) Avoid using washes that contain sodium laurel sulfate or other surfactants. They can irritate skin around your eyes. You should also stop using cotton balls under your eyes because they absorb moisture and cause your eye area to feel dry. Instead, use a soft clean brush or hair comb to remove dead cells and dust from right under your eyes. Finally, keep cigarette smoke out of your home to avoid adding to the problems with eye wrinkles and bags. If you are smoking, you need to quit now before they add even more damage to your already aged face.