Toenail fungus is one of those issues that’s equal parts frustrating and embarrassing. It’s stubborn, takes forever to go away, and often seems resistant to most treatments. If you’ve been Googling for solutions, you might have stumbled across hypochlorous acid (HOCl) as a potential remedy. But can it really help? Let’s dig into this.
What Is Hypochlorous Acid, Anyway?
Hypochlorous acid is, quite honestly, an underrated gem. It’s a substance your body naturally produces as part of its immune response to fight infections. Pretty cool, right? In its bottled form, it’s made by mixing water, salt, and electricity, creating a gentle yet powerful antimicrobial solution.
Here’s why it’s so popular: it kills bacteria, viruses, and fungi without being harsh or irritating. That’s why people use it for everything from wound care to acne treatments. But can it take on the beast that is toenail fungus?
Can Hypochlorous Acid Actually Kill Toenail Fungus?
The answer is… sort of. Yes, hypochlorous acid has antifungal properties. It can kill the fungus that causes toenail infections, but there’s a catch: toenail fungus is hard to treat. It’s not just sitting on the surface of your nail; it’s often embedded deep within, which makes it tricky for any treatment to fully penetrate.
Here’s how Hypochlorous Acid (HOCl) helps:
Kills Fungal Cells: HOCl destroys the cell walls of fungi.
Reduces Inflammation: Fungal infections often cause redness, swelling, and irritation and HOCl’s soothing properties can calm that down.
Keeps Infections at Bay: It prevents bacteria from taking advantage of your weakened nail, which is a bonus.
That said, it’s not a magic fix. For mild to moderate cases, it might work well, especially if you’re consistent. For severe infections? You might need more heavy-duty solutions alongside it and not just rely on hypochlorous acid spray.
How Do You Use Hypochlorous Acid for Toenail Fungus?
If you’re thinking about trying it, here’s a simple routine:
Clean Your Feet: Wash and dry your feet thoroughly. Moisture is the enemy when it comes to fungus.
Apply HOCl: Spray the solution directly onto the affected nail. Make sure it’s fully coated.
Let It Dry: Don’t wipe it off—let it air dry so it has time to work.
Repeat Daily: Do this 2–3 times a day, every day. Consistency is key here.
It’s worth mentioning: this isn’t an overnight fix. Toenail fungus takes weeks, sometimes months, to improve, even with the best treatments.
Is HOCl Worth Trying?
It may be, especially if you’re looking for a natural, non-toxic option. HOCl is gentle, safe, and won’t irritate your skin like some harsher antifungal creams. Plus, it’s easy to use—no messy applications or weird smells.
But again, manage your expectations. If your fungus is severe or you’ve been battling it for years, HOCl might not be enough on its own. It’s a great addition to your routine, but for serious cases, you should probably talk to a doctor.
Don't have a Hypochlorous Acid Spray yet? Get yours now on Amazon Canada or Amazon USA.
Curious to know if hypochlorous acid ever expires? Learn more here.
The Bottom Line
So, can hypochlorous acid kill toenail fungus? Yes, it can help. It’s not a miracle cure, but it’s a safe, natural option that’s worth trying, especially for mild infections. Just remember, toenail fungus is stubborn, and no treatment works instantly. Be patient, stay consistent, and don’t hesitate to combine it with other treatments if needed.
Disclaimer: This blog is for informational purposes only and isn’t meant to replace professional medical advice. If you’re dealing with serious skin concerns, consult a dermatologist for guidance.
Reference
Landa-Solis, C., Gonzalez-Espinosa, D., Guzman-Soriano, B., Snyder, M., Reyes-Teran, G., & Torres, K. (2005). Stability and antimicrobial activity of super-oxidized water with neutral pH. Journal of Hospital Infection, 61(4), 291–299.
Wang, L., Bassiri, M., Najafi, R., Najafi, K., Yang, J., Khosrovi, B., … & Benforado, K. (2007). Hypochlorous acid as a potential wound care agent. Journal of Burns and Wounds, 6, e4.
Briotech. (2024). Hypochlorous Acid for Skin and Nail Health. Retrieved from https://www.briotechusa.com/
Pure & Clean. (2024). Hypochlorous Acid Uses and Benefits. Retrieved from https://www.pureandclean.us/
Restaino, L., Frampton, E. W., Hemphill, J. B., & Palnikar, P. (1995). Efficacy of ozonated water, electrolyzed oxidizing water, and other sanitizers in comparison with chlorinated water against Escherichia coli O157:H7. Journal of Food Protection, 58(3), 315–320.
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