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 cheer leaders 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 kills 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.
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 & Sensitive Skin: One of the benefits of hypochlorous acid is it reduces inflammation and calm the skin. This makes its 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 skin care (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 by targeting harmful microorganisms while preserving the beneficial bacteria that keep your skin healthy.
Uses in Dermatology
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 who may not tolerate harsher treatments like benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid.
- Eczema: In this 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 seborrheic 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 to Integrate Hypochlorous Acid into Your Skincare Routine
Hypochlorous acid is available in a number of different skincare products including sprays, creams and cleanser. Each has its own specific use. Choosing the right form depends on your skin type and concerns. Below, we’ll discuss how to decide which is best for you and use it as part of your skincare routine:
Hypochlorous Acid Face Spray: A Game-Changer for Skincare
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, ensuring that the entire face or affected areas receive the full benefit of this gentle yet powerful solution.
How to Choose the Right Hypochlorous Acid Product for You
Hypochlorous acid face sprays are gentle and non-toxic, making them suitable for all skin types, including the most sensitive or reactive. It’s free from potential irritants such as alcohol, preservatives, or fragrances, making it a favourite amongst dermatologists for individuals who have allergies or those prone to sensitivity.
- Sprays: These are is the most popular form of hypochlorous acid in skincare, often used for its 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 after care 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 6-8 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 anytime 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.
Potential Risks & Side Effects
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, particularly 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. Despite being one of the few skincare ingredients that can be tolerated by most skin types, 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 using this treatment if you use it appropriately, consistently and 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. We offer safe and effective compound skincare treatments with prescription-strength ingredients. These include Tretinoin and Hydroquinone where appropriate through online skin clinic. Our doctors treat a range of conditions such as acne and scars, hyperpigmentation, melasma, 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.
