Hypochlorous acid is a versatile and powerful disinfectant used in skin care to treat acne and other conditions, prevent wound infections, promote healing, and kill germs in your surroundings.
It is also produced in your body. If you are injured, white blood cells in your immune system manufacture hypochlorous acid molecules to fight infection and help you heal. You may not be aware that you already use products containing hypochlorous acid or of the disinfectant's many applications.
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Hypochlorous Acid Basics
A hypochlorous acid molecule (HOCl)is made of hydrogen, oxygen, and chlorine. It is a weak acid with a close-to-neutral pH level. A French chemist experimenting with chlorine first produced hypochlorous acid in 1834. By World War I, it was used to treat wounds and disinfect surfaces.
In the late 20th century, scientists found that hypochlorous acid exists naturally in all mammals, including humans, as part of the immune system, which fights infection.
Until recently, it was possible but expensive to produce commercially, but today, it is readily available. Hypochlorous acid is made by electrolysis. An electric charge is sent through a mixture of salt and water, producing the acid, which is then mixed into a stable solution.
How Do Hypochlorous Acid, Hydrogen Peroxide, and Bleach Compare?
Hypochlorous acid (HOCl) is a powerful disinfectant that is safer and gentler than many other disinfectants, such as hydrogen peroxide (H₂O₂) or bleach (NaOCl). It is nontoxic, does not harm most surfaces, and leaves minimal residue.
By contrast, hydrogen peroxide and bleach can cause serious damage to the skin and lungs and can be fatal. They should be used only in well-ventilated areas, with limited exposure to the skin. They must be properly diluted for any on-skin applications.
Use in Skin Care
Hypochlorous acid is used in skin care products to kill the bacteria that can lead to acne or dermatitis (irritation or inflammation of the skin). A popular form of hypochlorous acid is facial sprays or mists, which are promoted as calming and redness-reducing, as well as antimicrobial.
Unlike acne treatments that exfoliate (remove skin cells), such as salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide, hypochlorous acid can reduce breakouts and clogged pores by disinfecting the skin. Its anti-inflammatory properties make it good for those with sensitive skin. There is also some evidence that it may help heal scarring by promoting the growth of skin cells.
It is safe for use on the eyelids in a saline solution to reduce bacteria that is causing tissue inflammation. It has been shown to reduce the bacteria in a Staphylococcal (staph) bacterial infection by more than 99%. Although it is nontoxic and mild, use it as directed.
A Word From Verywell
Hypochlorous acid is used to treat psoriasis and acne and speed wound healing. It is also used in skin and eye care. Side effects are rare and generally mild. It should not be swallowed, inhaled, or allowed onto the eyeball. Ask your healthcare provider how to use it safely
— WILLIAM TRUSWELL, MD, MEDICAL EXPERT BOARD
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Use as a Disinfectant
Hypochlorous acid had been used in wound care for more than a century, but it took on added significance for another one of its properties during the COVID-19 pandemic. It was found to destroy the SARS-CoV-2 virus within a minute of contact.
It continues to be used in hospital, home, and office settings as a mild but effective disinfectant. Hypochlorous acid is much stronger than bleach, but because it has a lower acidity and less salt, it is very gentle on surfaces (including the skin).
The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved hypochlorous acid for use on foods including meat, fruits, and vegetables, as well as in food-processing areas and on utensils and equipment.
The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) approved it for use in the National Organic Program, and the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) approved it as a no-rinse food sanitizer and for use in drinking water.
Use in Wound Care
Hypochlorous acid is both antiseptic and anti-inflammatory. It is effective for treating wounds.
It is active against microbes that can cause serious infections, such as those often found in hospitals that are resistant to antibiotics. These include staph bacteria and Pseudomonas aeruginosa bacteria. Hypochlorous acid promotes healing by bringing oxygen to the wound and can help when wounds are slow to heal.
Hypochlorous wound care products are available for home use and in hospital settings. They can be used as an environmental disinfectant to prepare operating rooms and equipment. During surgery, they can be used to clean the surgical site to prevent infection or, afterward, to help sutures heal.
Safety and Precautions
Despite its effectiveness, hypochlorous acid is mild and generally safe to use. However, some precautions must be taken.
Be careful that you are using hypochlorous acid and not similarly named agents such as hypochlorite solutions or chlorine bleaches, which can be dangerous.
Hypochlorous acid can lose its effectiveness against microbes unless it's been stabilized so that temperature and light do not affect it as rapidly. If it degrades, it becomes similar to salt water. Newer manufacturing technology addresses this concern, but it's recommended that hypochlorous acid be kept in a cool, dark place in an airtight, opaque (not clear) container.
Can You Make Hypochlorous Acid at Home?
Hypochlorous acid is made using electrolysis, a process that puts an electric charge through a solution, in this case, water, salt, and sometimes vinegar. On-site systems that claim to produce hypochlorous acid are available. Some are sold for home use.
You can also buy read-touse hypochlorous acid and tablets that produce hydrochlorous acid.
If you try to make it yourself, be sure to follow all directions. Be aware that light, air, and high temperatures can cause it to lose its effectiveness.
Summary
Hypochlorous acid is a naturally occurring disinfectant that bodies produce to help heal wounds and prevent infection. It can also be manufactured, and today it is used in skin care products to treat acne and other skin conditions and as a treatment for wounds.
At home and in healthcare settings, it is an effective environmental disinfectant and is used to prevent infection in people during and after surgery. Hypochlorous acid is gentle but extremely effective, making it a versatile choice for many different applications.
