In this edition of Hip & Healthy’s Beauty School series, we’re shining a spotlight on Hypochlorous Acid. Although this trendy ingredient has only recently started making waves in the mainstream beauty world (just about every influencer out there is carrying it in their gym bags), this bacteria-fighting powerhouse has actually been around for a while. As Benjamin Moffatt, MD of ISOCLEAN tells us, “It may be having a moment on TikTok but the power of hypochlorous acid has been harnessed by the medical field for over a century. It is said to have been used in World War I and II to help clean and sanitise wounds before the use of antibiotics became available.”

But what exactly is it and how should we be using it in our skincare routine? We tapped Moffatt to find out everything you need to know. So, get ready to swot up on this must-have beauty ingredient and bag yourself an A+ when it comes to all things hypochlorous acid.

So, What Exactly Is Hypochlorous Acid and What Does It Do?

Hypochlorous acid (HOCl) is a substance that is found naturally in the human body, produced by our white blood cells to help defend against infection. It has anti-microbial properties that kill bacteria, fungi, and viruses, making it an important part of our immune system.

But while the body produces hypochlorous acid naturally, it cannot be directed to target specific skin concerns such as acne. That is where science comes in; by creating a bioidentical synthetic form, hypochlorous acid can now be applied directly to the skin where it disinfects the area, reduces inflammation, and speeds up the skin’s healing processes.

Can All Skin Types Benefit from It?

One of the best things about hypochlorous acid is that it’s suitable for all skin types – even very sensitive skin (although we always recommend doing a patch test first). The anti-microbial and anti-inflammatory properties make it especially good for those with acne, but it is also beneficial for skin conditions such as eczema, rosacea, and psoriasis too.

What’s the Best Way to Incorporate It into a Skincare Routine?

The best – and easiest – way to add hypochlorous acid to your skincare routine is with a facial spray. The no-rinse, no-wipe formula can be applied after cleansing and before moisturising – or spritzed over your skin throughout the day, as often as needed (this also makes it good for on-the-go too!).

What Are the Pros and Cons of Using It?

The pros of hypochlorous acid are its many uses and benefits. Whether that’s soothing irritation, reducing redness or preventing breakouts, HOCl is a gentle yet effective ingredient that can be used to treat a wide range of skin types and conditions. It can even be applied topically to help ease the symptoms of everything from a red, hot sunburn to an itchy razor rash too.

In terms of cons, there’s not much not to like about this super ingredient. You should, however, avoid using hypochlorous acid with antioxidants such as vitamin C serums. HOCl is known to decrease their effectiveness so to get the best out of both products, allow time between applications. For example, apply your antioxidant product in the morning and wait a few hours before spraying on hypochlorous acid.

Are There Any Misconceptions about Hypochlorous Acid You Want to Clear Up?

Hypochlorous acid is a disinfectant that’s also found in household cleaners – but before you go looking under your kitchen sink, these sorts of products should never be used on the skin. They contain much higher levels of HOCl, whereas the concentration of the acid in your face spray has been significantly diluted (not to mention having undergone full cosmetic testing) before it is safe to use on the skin. So, although they are the same, they are also completely different too.