Hypochlorous acid (HOCl) is rapidly becoming a hero ingredient in skincare, especially for sensitive or reactive skin types. Naturally produced by the body as part of the immune response, HOCl is also gaining recognition for its impressive benefits when applied topically. Here’s a closer look at how it works to support your skin on a deeper, biochemical level:
1. Gentle Cleansing Without Stripping
Hypochlorous acid has powerful antimicrobial properties, enabling it to neutralise harmful bacteria, viruses, and fungi on the skin's surface. When HOCl is applied topically, it works by breaking down the outer cell membranes of pathogens, disrupting their function without harming healthy skin cells. This makes it an excellent option for sensitive skin as it cleanses effectively but doesn’t strip your skin’s natural oils. Unlike harsher cleansers, it doesn’t disrupt your skin’s lipid barrier, allowing it to maintain its protective functions and hydration levels.
2. Calms Redness and Inflammation
One of the standout benefits of hypochlorous acid is its anti-inflammatory action. HOCl works at the cellular level by modulating the activity of inflammatory markers such as cytokines. It helps reduce the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines, which are responsible for redness, swelling, and irritation. By soothing the skin’s immune response, HOCl not only calms redness but also supports the restoration of balance to irritated or inflamed skin. This makes it an ideal choice for those dealing with inflammation from environmental factors, sun exposure, or irritation from other skincare products.
3. Promotes Skin Healing
Hypochlorous acid has a well-documented role in wound healing. It accelerates the healing process by stimulating collagen synthesis and supporting tissue regeneration. HOCl enhances the activity of fibroblasts, the cells responsible for collagen production, which is essential for skin repair. In medical settings, HOCl is commonly used in wound care for its ability to promote tissue regeneration and reduce scarring. For the skin, this means that applying hypochlorous acid to irritated or compromised areas helps speed up recovery, making it an excellent option for soothing post-treatment skin or calming irritated spots.
4. Supports pH Balance
The pH level of your skin is critical to its overall health. Healthy skin has a slightly acidic pH (around 4.5–5.5), which helps maintain the skin's protective barrier. Hypochlorous acid, being naturally acidic, aligns perfectly with the skin’s pH. When applied, HOCl doesn’t disrupt the acid mantle but instead works in harmony with it. This helps keep the skin’s barrier intact, locking in moisture and preventing harmful microbes from entering. The result is hydrated, protected skin that doesn’t feel stripped or over-exposed, which is particularly important for sensitive or reactive skin types.
5. Zero-Touch Application for Reduced Irritation
The Zero-Touch Cleanse & Soothe Mist uses a fine mist to apply hypochlorous acid to the skin, avoiding the need for rubbing or pressing. This hands-free application reduces the physical irritation that can sometimes occur from touching or massaging sensitive skin. The mechanical action of rubbing the skin can trigger a flushing response by activating blood vessels in the skin and increasing redness. With a mist, HOCl is delivered directly to the skin without the need for any physical pressure, keeping irritation at bay. Additionally, this helps prevent the introduction of bacteria from hands, which can further exacerbate sensitive or compromised skin.
6. Bacteria-Fighting Properties
Hypochlorous acid is an incredibly effective antimicrobial agent. It works by penetrating the cell walls of bacteria, disrupting their metabolic processes, and neutralising harmful pathogens. This is especially beneficial for those who experience skin issues like acne or irritation triggered by bacteria. The antimicrobial properties of HOCl help prevent the overgrowth of harmful microorganisms on the skin’s surface, promoting a clearer, more balanced complexion. By reducing bacteria, HOCl can also help prevent clogged pores and reduce the likelihood of breakouts or inflammation.