Have you heard of hypochlorous acid? Are you curious how it is used for acne? Are you worried it might cause acne?
Hypochlorous acid (commonly known as HOCl) is a natural ingredient as it is also found in our white blood cells.
HOCl is celebrated for its ability to:
Eliminate acne-causing bacteria like Cutibacterium acnes
Reduce redness and inflammation associated with active breakouts
Support wound healing for small cuts and wounds
How Hypochlorous Acid Works on Acne
Hypochlorous acid is known for its antimicrobial properties, making it highly effective in fighting the bacteria (P. acnes) responsible for acne. A study in the Journal of Clinical and Aesthetic Dermatology found that hypochlorous acid significantly reduced acne bacteria on the skin without causing irritation .
Additionally, because of its anti-inflammatory effects, hypochlorous acid helps to calm the redness and swelling associated with acne. This makes it particularly beneficial for people with sensitive skin who struggle to find acne treatments that don’t cause dryness or irritation.
Can Hypochlorous Acid Cause Acne?
The short answer is no—hypochlorous acid is unlikely to cause acne. Actually, it is used to combat acne and skin irritation since it has antibacterial and antimicrobial properties!
Why Hypochlorous Acid Helps Acne-Prone Skin
It Kills Bacteria: hypochlorous acid can effectively target acne-causing bacteria without compromising your otherwise healthy skin.
Reduces Inflammation: Its anti-inflammatory properties help calm redness and swelling.
Promotes Healing: HOCl supports your skin’s natural repair process, helping to fade acne scars and prevent post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation.
When to Avoid Hypochlorous Acid
While HOCl is generally safe for all skin types, there are a few cases you might want to exercise caution:
Compromised Packaging: If the product has been exposed to air for an extended period, its efficacy may diminish.
Other Medical Conditions: If you have severe skin conditions, consult a dermatologist or a medical professional.
Overall though, hypochlorous acid is very unlikely to cause acne. Although, it is never a bad idea to be cautious, so a patch test is always a good option before starting any new skincare product! As with any skincare product, proper use and attention to formulation are essential to avoid potential issues.
If you’re looking for a natural, gentle way to care for your skin, hypochlorous acid might be a good solution. Whether you’re targeting acne, soothing irritation, or maintaining a balanced skin barrier, HOCl is a versatile and safe option for most skin needs.
At Honeydew Labs, our hypochlorous acid sprays are designed with your skin’s health in mind. With a pH of 5.5 and 200 ppm concentration, our products offer effective, gentle care for sensitive and acne-prone skin.
How to Use Hypochlorous Acid for Acne
For best results, use hypochlorous acid after cleansing your face. Apply it directly to areas prone to breakouts by spraying it onto the skin and let fully dry before moving onto the rest of your skincare. It can be used both morning and night. Our online store offers a range of products featuring hypochlorous acid, perfect for tackling acne.
You can also find our product on Amazon US and on Amazon Canada.
Are you using retinol and interested in using hypoclorous acid together with it? Check out our blog, can you use hypochlorous acid with retinol!
DISCLAIMER: Our skincare articles aim to provide educational information about various ingredients and skincare topics. They are meant for general knowledge and should not be considered medical advice or treatment suggestions.
References:
Del Rosso, J. Q., & Silverberg, N. B. (2018). Management of Acne Vulgaris with Hypochlorous Acid: A Clinical Review. Journal of Clinical and Aesthetic Dermatology, 11(6), 15-19.
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