Hypochlorous acid: Uses, benefits for skin, and safety
Hypochlorous acid has become popular in skin care, with many claiming it can help with all manner of skin conditions.
In this article, we examine the potential benefits, risks, and uses of this ingredient, including answers to some frequently asked questions.
Hypochlorous acid is a natural compound that the body’s white blood cells release to fight germs.
On a chemical level, hypochlorous acid is chlorine dissolved in water. However, it is very weak, and its pH level is almost identical to that of human skin.
Today, scientists can produce hypochlorous acid by passing an electrical current through saltwater. This process takes 8 minutes and produces a substance that is both very low in chlorine but highly effective at killing microbes, according to a 2025 review.
In fact, a 2024 report notes that some studies have found hypochlorous acid more effective than bleach.
Hypochlorous acid is a very effective disinfectant. It rapidly kills bacteria, viruses, and fungi, including some that are resistant to other antimicrobials, such as:
Because of this capability, many healthcare professionals use hypochlorous acid to sanitize surfaces. People can also use it for this purpose at home or as hand sanitizer.
A proposal for the World Health Organization (WHO) to classify hypochlorous acid as an “essential medicine” lists many ways healthcare professionals can use hypochlorous acid for infections, including:
Increasingly, hypochlorous acid is popular as an over-the-counter remedy for various skin conditions, such as:
More research is necessary to explore the potential uses of hypochlorous acid in dermatology.
Pure hypochlorous acid is safe for topical use at low concentrations. Researchers have even tested it inside the mouth and around the eyes. So far, there is no evidence that it significantly damages these sensitive areas.
There are few reports in the scientific literature of any adverse effects, aside from skin or eye irritation. It is not corrosive and, unlike bleach, does not stain clothing.
Additionally, hypochlorous acid is a short-lived compound. After exposure to a pathogen, it quickly turns into saltwater.
Over 100 years of research since its discovery, there are no reports of any germ being entirely resistant to hypochlorous acid.
However, people should avoid using mixed or low quality formulas. Instead, look for pure hypochlorous acid made via electrolysis. The only ingredients should be:
Hypochlorous acid is available as a liquid spray or a gel. Doctors can advise on how best to use it for medical conditions. For minor skin complaints, they may suggest applying it:
For everyday use as a sanitizer, carrying a small bottle of hypochlorous acid spray may be the most convenient option. Spray it on the hands, surfaces, or objects and leave it there for at least 1 minute.
For some, hypochlorous acid may worsen skin irritation, rather than improving it. If it causes inflammation, itchiness, dryness, or other reactions, wash it off right away and stop using it.
Below are answers to some common questions about hypochlorous acid.
No, they are not the same. While both molecules contain chlorine, household bleach is diluted sodium hypochlorite. Unlike hypochlorous acid, sodium hypochlorite is alkaline, corrosive, and toxic.
No, they are not the same. While both molecules contain chlorine, household bleach is diluted sodium hypochlorite. Unlike hypochlorous acid, sodium hypochlorite is alkaline, corrosive, and toxic.
Some products containing hypochlorous acid claim to be suitable for daily use. However, some people report that frequent use causes dryness or irritation.
Some products containing hypochlorous acid claim to be suitable for daily use. However, some people report that frequent use causes dryness or irritation.
Hypochlorous acid may temporarily “cancel out” the activity of antioxidants, which are popular in skin care.
Hypochlorous acid may temporarily “cancel out” the activity of antioxidants, which are popular in skin care.
Hypochlorous acid is a powerful antiseptic that kills a variety of bacteria, viruses, and fungi. It works quickly and is safe to use on the skin.
Healthcare professionals use it for disinfecting surfaces, wound care, and preventing infections. In everyday life, many people use it as hand sanitizer or as a skin care ingredient.
If a person is considering trying hypochlorous acid, it is important to look for a high quality product with only water, salt, and hypochlorous acid listed on the label. Store correctly to prolong its antimicrobial effects.
If hypochlorous causes a negative reaction, or a person has an undiagnosed skin condition or signs of infection, they should speak with a doctor.