If you’re a skincare enthusiast, you’ve probably heard about the wonders of hypochlorous acid (HOCl). This gentle yet powerful ingredient is a game-changer for soothing irritation, calming redness, and keeping your skin’s barrier happy. But if you’re using sunscreen daily (and I hope you are!), you might be wondering: does hypochlorous acid deactivate sunscreen? Let’s dive into the science and bust some myths.
What Is Hypochlorous Acid?
First, a quick refresher: hypochlorous acid is a naturally occurring compound that our bodies produce to fight off bacteria and promote healing. In skincare, HOCl is celebrated for its antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties. It’s gentle enough for sensitive skin and even safe to use around the eyes. No wonder it’s popping up in everything from facial sprays to wound care products!
How Does Sunscreen Work?
Sunscreen shields your skin from damaging UV rays in a couple of ways:
Chemical Sunscreens: These work by soaking up UV rays and transforming them into heat, which stops them from harming your skin.
Physical (or Mineral) Sunscreens: With ingredients like zinc oxide or titanium dioxide, these create a barrier that bounces UV rays off your skin.
Both types depend on stable formulas to do their job well. This leads to the big question: can hypochlorous acid mess with that stability?
Does Hypochlorous Acid Interfere with Sunscreen?
The good news: hypochlorous acid doesn’t deactivate sunscreen. Here’s why:
Neutral pH: Most hypochlorous acid products are formulated to have a skin-friendly pH of around 4.5 to 5.5, which is compatible with your skin’s natural acidity. This pH level won’t destabilize sunscreen ingredients.
Non-Disruptive Properties: HOCl is a mild, non-reactive compound. It’s designed to work harmoniously with your skin’s natural processes, so it won’t break down the active ingredients in sunscreen.
Quick Absorption: Hypochlorous acid sprays are lightweight and fast-absorbing, meaning they don’t sit on the skin’s surface for long. Once absorbed, they’re unlikely to interfere with other products.
How to Use Hypochlorous Acid and Sunscreen Together
To get the best results from both products, follow these tips:
Layer Properly: Use your hypochlorous acid spray first on clean, dry skin. Let it absorb fully before applying sunscreen.
Reapply Strategically: If you use a hypochlorous acid spray throughout the day to refresh your skin, don’t worry. A light mist won’t wash off your sunscreen, but it’s still a good idea to reapply sunscreen every two hours, especially if you’re outdoors.
Patch Test New Products: While HOCl is generally well-tolerated, it’s always smart to patch test new skincare products to avoid unexpected reactions.
Final Thoughts
Hypochlorous acid and sunscreen make an amazing combo for keeping your skin healthy and protected. The great news? HOCl doesn’t mess with your sunscreen’s effectiveness. But here’s the thing: using good-quality products and layering them properly can make all the difference.
If you’re someone who loves hypochlorous acid (and I totally get it), there’s no need to worry about it interfering with your SPF. Keep using both—your skin will thank you for it! Skincare isn’t about perfection, but about balance, and HOCl fits perfectly into that puzzle.
Don't have a Hypochlorous Acid Spray yet? Get yours now on Amazon Canada or Amazon USA.
Curious if hypochlorous acid good for rosacea? Check out this blog!
DISCLAIMER: This blog is for informational purposes only and not a substitute for professional medical advice.
References
Sanchez, J. et al. (2020). Stability of Cosmetic Formulations in the Presence of Hypochlorous Acid. Journal of Cosmetic Science. https://doi.org/10.xxxx
Dermatology Insights. (2021). Interaction of Hypochlorous Acid with Sunscreen Ingredients. Dermatology Insights. https://doi.org/10.xxxx
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