What is Hypochlorous Acid? Does it work for Acne?

What is Hypochlorous Acid? Does it work for Acne?

What is Hypochlorous Acid — Why it Works for Acne?

Acne is complicated — bacteria, inflammation, clogged pores, sometimes sensitive skin. Enter hypochlorous acid (HOCl), a gentle and powerful ingredient.

🧪 What is Hypochlorous Acid?

  • HOCl is a molecule naturally produced by your body. White blood cells make HOCl to fight infection and invading microbes. Cleveland Clinic+2Dermatology Times+2
  • In skincare products, it’s stabilized (kept at the right pH, shielded from light/air, etc.) to maintain its beneficial properties. JDD Online+2PMC+2

🙌 How HOCl Helps Acne-Prone Skin:

Here are the ways HOCl may support clearer, calmer skin:

  • Antimicrobial / Antibacterial
    HOCl can kill or reduce microbes (including bacteria that contribute to acne). PMC+2Journal of Integrative Dermatology+2
  • Anti-Inflammatory
    Acne isn’t just about bacteria — inflammation is a key culprit (redness, swelling, post-acne irritation). HOCl has been shown in multiple lab and clinical studies to reduce inflammatory markers. PMC+2JDD Online+2
  • Soothing & Healing Support
    Because it’s naturally occurring in the body and mild, HOCl can help repair skin, calm irritation, and support healing. Cleveland Clinic+2Journal of Integrative Dermatology+2
  • Alternative / Complement to Stronger Actives
    Strong ingredients (like benzoyl peroxide, high % acids) can be effective against acne, but irritates young skin. HOCl is a gentler alternative, especially for sensitive skin. There is a study comparing HOCl solution vs benzoyl peroxide for inflammatory acne lesions showing equivalent improvementJDD Online+1

🧐 What the Research Says: 

  • The 2018 “Status Report on Topical Hypochlorous Acid” reviewed studies and found that HOCl exhibits both antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory effects. It also showed clinical benefits in skin disorders including acne, atopic dermatitis, seborrheic dermatitis, etc. PMC
  • A study comparing HOCl vs benzoyl peroxide showed that both improved inflammatory acne lesions. JDD Online
  • Another trial: a dilute sodium hypochlorite solution (0.005%) applied topically 3×/day for 1 month significantly reduced total acne lesions.


🛍️ Our favorite HOCL face spray to help with acne is Clear Champion Breakout Defense Spray.

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