Mar 171 min
Updated: May 6
Hypochlorus Acid (HOCL) may be known to many through its use during the COVID19 pandemic. It is said to be many, many more times powerful than bleach when used for fighting bacteria and yet it is still gentle on the skin. Gentle enough, even,that it can be used on sensitive skin.
The acid is present in all of us and in each and every cell, being produced by our own white blood cells and works by engulfing or ingesting infected cells.
The best form of Hypochlorus Acid is in a simple solution with nothing added. It is not easy to keep and sometimes, in some products, it is mixed with other ingredients, those other ingredients may or may not be helpful especially is being used on sensitive skin.
The acid is helpful for use with acne, atopic eczema (patches of dry skin) rosacea and dermatitis.
HOCl is a super-flexible ingredient that often pairs well with moisturising agents and may be used with Hyaluronic Acid, glycerin, and Squalane, as well as anti-inflammatory ingredients such as allantoin and colloidal oatmeal. It also works amazingly with antioxidants such as Niacinamide and Vitamin C emollients such as shea butter, skin barrier enhancers like ceramides, and acne management ingredients like Salicylic Acid and benzoyl peroxide by addressing both bacteria and inflammation.
There have been no reported side effects related to using HOCl solutions. In other words, if you have sensitive skin and are cautious about introducing new ingredients into your routine, you don't have to worry about HOCl.