What is hypochlorous acid and why it is trending in skincare

written by Amy Steenkamp November 2, 2024

Every now and then, skincare blesses us with a new miracle ingredient – hypochlorous acid or HOCI is a recent main character. This powerful acid is know for its disinfectant properties and in skincare, for its ability to heal, protect, and soothe.

Let’s take a closer look at why hypochlorous acid is becoming a must-have in skincare, and the unique benefits it brings to the table.

What is hypochlorous acid?

Hypochlorous acid is a weak acid with strong antimicrobial properties. It is also naturally produced by our white blood cells as part of the immune response.

HOCl is commonly used in surface cleaners, pool cleaners, and you heard right, facial cleansers. There’s a big difference between the hypochlorous acid found in your surface cleaners and the acid found in your face mists – skincare carries a diluted formula, making it safe yet still effective.

Hypochlorous acid helps to fight off harmful bacteria and infections, essentially acting as a natural defence system.

Benefits of hypochlorous acid in skincare

Powerful antimicrobial action

Hypochlorous acid has potent antimicrobial properties, which help reduce harmful bacteria on the skin. It’s gentle enough to use on sensitive skin yet strong enough to reduce acne-causing bacteria, making it an excellent choice for those dealing with breakouts or irritated skin.

Soothing and anti-inflammatory

One of HOCl’s standout benefits is its ability to reduce inflammation and redness. It can soothe various skin concerns, from rosacea to post-treatment irritation, and even sunburn, thanks to its anti-inflammatory properties. This makes it a go-to for sensitive skin types or anyone dealing with redness and inflammation.

Accelerates healing

Hypochlorous acid is a natural wound healer, which is why it’s used in medical settings to treat wounds and injuries. When applied to the skin, it promotes faster healing, making it ideal for treating acne lesions or post-procedure recovery. It helps damaged skin cells regenerate more quickly, restoring a healthy, even complexion.

Gentle for all skin types

Unlike some active ingredients that can cause dryness or irritation, hypochlorous acid is safe for all skin types, even the most sensitive. Its neutral pH and mild nature make it suitable for those who may not tolerate traditional skincare acids or retinoids. Hypochlorous acid provides the benefits of a potent antimicrobial without disrupting the skin’s natural barrier.

Strengthens the skin barrier

Hypochlorous acid supports the skin’s barrier function, helping protect it against environmental stressors and pollutants. It fortifies the skin’s natural defenses, keeping it resilient and healthy in the face of daily irritants and potential triggers for inflammation.

Why has hypochlorous acid become so popular now

The recent popularity of hypochlorous acid in skincare is largely due to its safety, versatility, and effectiveness.

With consumers more conscious than ever about the ingredients they put on their skin, HOCl stands out as a gentle, science-backed option.

Additionally, the rise of ‘minimalist’ and ‘clean’ skincare has led to a surge in demand for multipurpose ingredients that can simplify routines while still providing powerful results. HOCl, being both an antimicrobial and soothing agent, fits perfectly within this trend, as it can often replace multiple products in a skincare routine.

Incorporating hypochlorous acid into your routine

Hypochlorous acid is available in a variety of products, from facial mists to gels, and can be easily incorporated into your daily skincare routine. It’s best used after cleansing and before other treatments, such as serums and moisturisers. For those with acne-prone or sensitive skin, hypochlorous acid mists are a popular option; they can be sprayed onto clean skin to help prevent breakouts and soothe inflammation.

Skincare tip: HOCl products often come in spray form, making them easy to use throughout the day to refresh and protect the skin without needing to reapply layers of product.