The Science

How 2% Gets Through Your Skin 

Step 1 — Apply the lotion

Your skin’s natural moisture activates the formula instantly.

Step 2 — Sodium bicarb breaks apart

NaHCO₃ separates into two tiny ions:

  • Na⁺ (sodium)

  • HCO₃⁻ (bicarbonate)

These are small enough to cross the outer skin layer.

Step 3 — A small pH shift opens the door

Bicarbonate gently raises surface pH, making the skin barrier slightly more permeable for a short period.

Step 4 — Ions move through micro-pathways

They pass through:

  • intercellular lipid gaps

  • sweat ducts

  • aqueous pores

This happens through passive diffusion—no needles, no force.

Step 5 — Into the fluid under your skin

Once inside the dermis, the ions dissolve into interstitial fluid and enter circulation.

Step 6 — Your body uses the bicarbonate

The bicarbonate joins your natural buffer system, helping your muscles neutralize acid and maintain performance during hard efforts.