With the times being tight, everyone is looking to pinch pennies. You can save money on health and beauty aids by scooping out some baking soda.

It may not come in a provocative package, but you can get some fabulous results from this little product.

Hair And Skin

One favorite use of baking soda is to soften the skin. By pouring a small box into a warm bath and adding a little sea salt, you can give yourself a spa-like treatment for just a few cents. When you emerge from the water, your skin will feel soft and silky -- like you had a high-dollar treatment at an upscale resort.

Baking soda also makes a great clarifying solution for the hair. Just add about a teaspoon to your shampoo in the palm of your hand. It will remove excess build up and residue left from hair sprays and other products. If you have chlorine in your hair, baking soda is the perfect solution to keep your hair from becoming dull. No time to shampoo? Then dab a little on your comb or brush and it will remove any excess oils from your hair.

Many people have sensitive skin and baking soda can prevent hair loss from eczema if used in place of shampoo. If you have sensitive skin and shave, then try using about a teaspoon in a cup of water to soothe your skin prior to shaving and after.

Whiter Teeth, Less Red Burns

Many people spend $30 or more on whitening strips to have a gleaming smile. Others spend hundreds to have a dentist professionally whiten their teeth. Why pay so much, when applying a small amount of baking soda to your toothbrush will give you that same sparkling smile?

Also brushing with baking soda can heal cuts and sores inside the mouth while freshening your breath. Some people even report pain relief for cavities when using baking soda.

If you suffer from heat rash or sunburn, consider making a baking soda paste. Applying baking soda in the form of a paste to any sunburn or rash will give instant relief. Let the paste sit on the affected area for about an hour for best results.

Everyone knows that baking soda removes and eliminates odors from the fridge. Did you know that you can use baking soda as deodorant? Simply apply some cornstarch under your arms and then follow up with the baking soda. You'll feel and smell fresh the entire day.

Baking soda has so many uses. You can add water and make it into a saline solution. This solution can be used for your eyes, earwax removal and digestive problems. Indigestion and heartburn can be eased with this solution. Using it as a paste can relieve the pain of a bug bite or bee sting.

With so many fancy and new products on the shelves today it's difficult to know which one to try. When you purchase baking soda, you can know that you've made a frugal, safe and wise choice.