Hypochlorous acid…Sounds kind of scary right? True. It doesn’t have an enticing name or positive vibe when you first hear it, but it’s a gem in my skincare routine. So, what is it, exactly? Well, it’s a mild acid with antimicrobial properties that played a significant role in World War I and II as an antiseptic. Our bodies also produce natural hypochlorous acid to ward off pathogens in the skin. Due to its ability to fight off the COVID-19 virus, hypochlorous acid garnered a lot of attention during the pandemic and I recommended it for the annoying maskne we endured. While it’s not in the news much now for COVID-19, hypochlorous acid has stayed on the shelves of many skincare experts.
As an acid that fights bacteria and other organisms on your skin, hypochlorous acid has many dermatologic uses, including cleaning and prepping the skin before procedures like injectables, dermaplaning or microneedling. Some people, like those with atopic dermatitis or psoriasis, also carry higher amounts of bacteria on their skin, which can cause flares or challenges with controlling itch. Hypochlorous acid can reduce the bacterial load which may help with managing those skin conditions. But the value of hypochlorous acid goes beyond just cleaning the skin. It can speed up wound healing and it also has anti-inflammatory properties, which are beneficial for skin issues like acne, rosacea and seborrheic dermatitis. Wait, aren’t those examples of sensitive skin folks? Yes! One of the unique properties of hypochlorous acid is how well tolerated it is, even with sensitive skin. Moreover, an ophthalmologist colleague shared with me how it can improve blepharitis or recurrent styes.
Typically, hypochlorous acid comes as a cleanser or spray. Cleansers that contain hypochlorous acid can also be used to sanitize the skin and might be useful as a part of your acne regimen. As a spray, I love to use it right after a hike or work out, especially when I know showering isn’t in my near future. For my athletes, in particular my teenagers, hypochlrous acid spray is also a great way to assist with battling pimples. If you still wear a mask and maskne is a daily thing, a mid-day spritz might help with breakouts.
Do you have stinky feet or armpits? Then hypochlorous acid might be a good option. My five-year-old son already has foot odor that rivals a teenage boy but has improved with hypochlorous acid spray. Often, we prescribe topical antibiotics to help with odor in these areas but the option of hypochlorous acid is a nice alternative. Now while I have touted some of the potential benefits of hypochlorous acid, the actual data behind its use is underwhelming. However, this is one of the examples in medicine where clinical experience has led me to be a believer in its use.
A word of caution if you use If you use a hypochlorous acid spray with your antioxidants, like vitamin C, or a topical retinoid. Hypochlorous acid works through oxidation so it would deactivate an antioxidant. Now that doesn’t mean if you combined your vitamin C serum with hypochlorous acid on your face that you would set off a major reaction. It just means that your vitamin C would likely be neutralized, and its antioxidant properties would be gone. If you want to use a hypochlorous acid spray as a part of your skin care routine, it’s best to apply after cleansing, prior to any serums or moisturizers. Let it dry first and then apply your vitamin C. You could also use them at different times of the day. Then, you get the benefits of both. And extra bonus—hypochlorous acid does not bleach.
Although known for tolerability with sensitive skin types, hypochlorous acid may cause irritation, redness, itching, or dryness when applied to the skin. Before applying it all over, you can rub in a small amount behind your ear and wait a few days to observe for a reaction. This serves as a test spot to see if you can tolerate it. You can also choose fragrance free versions to minimize irritating ingredients.
Trotter’s Take: Hypochlorous acid is an unsung hero in the skincare world and while it may not be for everyone, it’s a nice al la carte product for several skin conditions.
