Hypochlorous Acid: What Is It and Why Is It Amazing for Skin?

What Is It?

Hypochlorous acid (HOCl) is an acid that forms when chlorine dissolves in water. It is produced as an immune response in the white blood cells of all mammals, including humans, where it works to fight off infection and germs. Since it is naturally produced by the human body to attack invading pathogens and promote wound healing, it is both an effective disinfectant and generally well-tolerated.

Because of its strong antimicrobial properties, hypochlorous acid has been of interest to scientists and doctors for over two centuries. Its history dates all the way back to 1811, when it was first identified but not isolated by Sir Humphry Davy. In 1823, his student, Michael Faraday, was able to isolate HOCl outside the human body through a process of electrolyzing salt and water, creating an amazing germ fighting disinfectant.

What Does It Do?

Hypochlorous acid has been used in wound care dating as far back as WWI and was used heavily on the battlefields of both world wars for wound irrigation. Since then, it has been used in operating rooms, by eye doctors for eyelid inflammation, in food safety and water treatment, as well as general hygiene. Its long history has resulted in many applications with impressive results, proving it is generally safe for most people.

Although it’s a safe, nontoxic and effective solution to many problems, hypochlorous acid has proven complicated and expensive to produce in a stable solution with a long shelf life. In recent years manufacturing advancements have allowed HOCl to be made in larger quantities with a longer shelf life leading to more widespread production and use.

What Does That Mean for Skin?

Since hypochlorous acid is a weak acid that boasts strong antibacterial properties, it is known for being less irritating than other disinfectants like alcohol or benzoyl peroxide; however, those with highly sensitive skin might experience mild irritation.

Hypochlorous acid has been shown to soothe signs of redness and irritation, minimize imperfections, and naturally calm skin. It can be used to clarify blemish-prone skin, and improve the appearance of everything ranging from sunburns, eczema, and cuts and scrapes.

It can also assist in barrier function as it reduces microorganisms on the skin and helps to purify and calm signs of skin irritation.

How To Use

With closed eyes, spray directly onto clean, dry skin morning and evening. Allow product to dry before following with serums, moisturizers, and sunscreen. Can be used morning and evening after cleansing, post-workout and as needed to calm and clarify. Can be used on both face and body.