Thanks to social media, hypochlorous acid has been enjoying a massive surge in interest due to its numerous skin benefits. The claims are pretty impressive! From promoting healing to soothing inflammation, there’s a chorus of cheerleaders including dermatologists and skincare enthusiasts. However, is there any substance behind this viral trend in beauty? In this article, we’re going to explore the benefits of hypochlorous acid for skin and its risks and side effects. We’ll also discuss how to properly use hypochlorous acid sprays and other products on your skin and face.
What is Hypochlorous Acid?
Hypochlorous acid (or HOCl if you want the chemical symbol) is a naturally occurring weak acid. It is a component of many living organisms including the human body. White blood cells produce HOCl as part of the immune response. It releases free chlorine particles (a bit like bleach) that then kill harmful pathogens. As such, its primary role in the human body is to fight off infections, neutralise bacteria and promote healing. It can also be made in the lab and has uses in cleaning products and increasingly in skincare.
What are the Benefits of Hypochlorous Acid for Skin?
You’ll be pleased to know that the surge in popularity of hypochlorous acid in skincare is not just another trend. There’s actually plenty of scientific evidence that hypochlorous acid offers a number of skin benefits. Here are the main ones:
- Powerful Antimicrobial Properties: Hypochlorous acid is a potent antimicrobial agent that kills bacteria, viruses and fungi on the skin. This makes it beneficial for those with acne-prone skin as it helps reduce the bacterial load that can trigger breakouts.
- Soothes Irritated and Sensitive Skin: One of the benefits of hypochlorous acid is that it reduces inflammation and calms the skin. This makes it especially useful if you’re dealing with redness, sensitive skin, eczema, rosacea or general skin irritation.
- Promotes Wound Healing: Hypochlorous acid has wound-healing properties. It helps reduce the microbial biofilm that can impair wound healing. HOCl also accelerates the recovery process by increasing blood flow to the area and encouraging the skin’s natural repair mechanisms. This can be beneficial in cuts, burns, post-surgery and chronic wounds. It may even be useful as post-procedure skincare (such as after laser treatments or chemical peels).
- Balances the Skin’s Microbiome: Maintaining a healthy skin microbiome is essential for optimal skin function. A disrupted microbiome can lead to conditions like acne, eczema and premature ageing. If used correctly, hypochlorous acid can help to balance the skin’s ecosystem. It does this by targeting harmful microorganisms while preserving the beneficial bacteria that keep your skin healthy.
Which Skin Conditions Benefit from Hypochlorous Acid?
Due to the above anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial and healing properties, hypochlorous acid is used for a number of skin conditions. Here are the main skin conditions that may benefit from hypochlorous acid:
- Acne: The main features of acne are overgrowth of bacteria on the skin, clogged pores and inflammation. Hypochlorous acid helps by reducing the bacterial load on the skin, calming inflammation and promoting healing without irritating or stripping the skin. Its gentle nature makes it particularly useful for people with sensitive or acne-prone skin. They may not tolerate harsher treatments like benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid.
- Eczema: This is a chronic condition that causes the skin to become red, itchy and inflamed. Hypochlorous acid’s anti-inflammatory properties can help soothe flare-ups and reduce itching. Its ability to kill bacteria on the skin can prevent infections, which are common in eczema-prone skin due to scratching.
- Rosacea: This is characterised by redness, visible blood vessels and inflamed bumps on the face. Hypochlorous acid helps reduce inflammation and soothe the skin, making it less reactive. It also aids in calming the underlying triggers of rosacea flare-ups, such as bacteria and environmental stressors.
- Seborrhoeic Dermatitis: Typically this condition causes scaly patches, redness and dandruff-like flaking, particularly on oily areas of the skin like the scalp, nose and eyebrows. The antifungal properties of hypochlorous acid can help reduce the presence of Malassezia yeast, which plays a key role in seborrhoeic dermatitis.
- Hidradenitis Suppurativa: This is a painful chronic skin condition that causes abscesses, boils and scarring, often in areas where skin rubs together. Hypochlorous acid can help by reducing the bacterial load and inflammation associated with hidradenitis suppurativa. This may potentially reduce the severity and frequency of flare-ups.
- Psoriasis: This is a chronic autoimmune condition that causes rapid skin cell turnover, leading to red, scaly patches. Hypochlorous acid can help soothe inflammation, prevent infection in areas where the skin is cracked and support the skin’s natural healing processes.
How Do You Use Hypochlorous Acid in Your Skincare Routine?
Hypochlorous acid is available in a number of different skincare products including sprays, creams and cleansers. Each has its own specific use and choosing the right form depends on your skin type and concerns. One of the most convenient ways to harness the power of HOCl is through a hypochlorous acid face spray. A face spray allows for easy, even application. This ensures that the entire face or affected areas receive the full benefit of this gentle yet powerful solution.
How Do You Choose the Right Hypochlorous Acid Product?
Hypochlorous acid face sprays are gentle and non-toxic, making them suitable for all skin types, including the most sensitive or reactive. They are free from potential irritants such as alcohol, preservatives or fragrances. This makes them a favourite amongst dermatologists for individuals who have allergies or those prone to sensitivity. Below we break down the main forms and how to use each:
- Sprays: These are the most popular form of hypochlorous acid in skincare, often used for their convenience and ease of application. Sprays are lightweight and can be misted directly onto the face, body or areas affected by irritation or inflammation. Best for: Daily use as a soothing toner after cleansing or for aftercare post-shaving or waxing. Ideal for all skin types, especially sensitive, rosacea or acne-prone skin. How to use: After cleansing, hold the spray about 6 to 8 inches from your face (or whichever part of the body you’re using it) and spritz evenly. You can let it air dry or pat it in gently. Follow with your moisturiser or other products.
- Cream: Hypochlorous acid creams are thicker and more emollient than sprays. They’re often formulated with additional hydrating and soothing ingredients to lock in moisture while delivering the benefits of HOCl. Best for: Eczema, psoriasis and areas of dry or cracked skin. Ideal for those with very dry or sensitive skin who need additional moisture. How to use: Apply a thin layer of cream to affected areas after cleansing. For best results, use it as part of your night-time skincare routine or any time the skin feels dry or irritated.
- Cleansers: Some facial cleansers now incorporate hypochlorous acid to provide a gentle, antibacterial cleanse without stripping the skin of its natural oils. These cleansers are effective for those dealing with acne or infections, as they cleanse the skin while delivering the benefits of HOCl. Best for: Acne-prone skin or anyone looking for a gentle, antibacterial cleanser. How to use: Use as part of your daily skincare routine. Apply the cleanser to damp skin, massage gently and rinse off thoroughly with lukewarm water.
Is Hypochlorous Acid Safe?
Although hypochlorous acid is generally safe and well-tolerated for most skin types, including sensitive and acne-prone skin, there are still some risks. As with any skincare product, some individuals may experience mild irritation or an allergic reaction. This is particularly likely if the formula contains additional ingredients that may not agree with their skin. As such, it’s always a good idea to perform a patch test before introducing a new product into your routine. Additionally, you should only use hypochlorous acid products designed for use on the skin and follow the instructions carefully. Excessive or inappropriate use may risk irritating your skin and causing imbalance to your microbiome.
Those with severe skin conditions or open wounds should consult a doctor before use, especially if combining with other active treatments. Whilst hypochlorous acid is thought to be safe in pregnant and breastfeeding women, you should always seek medical advice before using it.
There are a number of benefits of using hypochlorous acid on the skin and it is very easy to incorporate into any skincare routine. It is one of the few skincare ingredients that can be tolerated by most skin types. Even so, it is not free of risks and may not be suitable for everyone. As with anything in life, you will get the best out of this treatment if you use it appropriately and consistently. It also works best as part of an all-round skincare routine. If you suffer from any medical skin conditions, always seek advice from your dermatologist or healthcare provider before using.
At City Skin Clinic, we are passionate about personalised skincare. Our online skin clinic offers safe and effective custom skincare treatments with prescription-strength ingredients. Where appropriate our doctors use ingredients such as tretinoin and hydroquinone to treat a range of conditions such as acne and scars, hyperpigmentation, melasma and skin ageing. To start your personalised skincare plan, book a virtual video consultation or use our online consultation form. The journey towards great skin starts here.
This article is intended for general informational purposes only and is not a substitute for medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Always consult a qualified medical provider for any medical concerns or questions you might have.
