If you've been following skincare trends, you've likely noticed the buzz around hypochlorous acid spray. But here’s a fun fact: your body actually already makes it. Hypochlorous acid (HOCl) is naturally produced by your white blood cells to fight bacteria, reduce inflammation, and accelerate healing (your skin’s built-in defender!).
That means this isn’t just another passing trend! It’s science your body has relied on forever!
The Science of Hypochlorous Acid
When your body detects harmful invaders like bacteria or viruses, your white blood cells release hypochlorous acid to fight them off. Scientists have figured out how to stabilize HOCl so it can be bottled and used in skincare (pretty genius, right?).
- ANTI-INFLAMMATORY
- HOCl calms redness and irritation (a lifesaver for sensitive or reactive skin!).
- ANTI-BACTERIAL
- It helps fight acne-causing bacteria while keeping your skin balanced (bye bye random breakouts!).
- SENSITIVE SKIN-APPROVED
- Because it occurs naturally in your body, your skin recognizes it without hard stinging or irritation.
That’s why dermatologists and estheticians recommend HOCl for everything!
Benefits of HOCl in Skincare
Hypochlorous acid isn’t only for breakouts. It can fit into almost any skincare routine!
- BREAKOUT CONTROL
- HOCl reduces acne-causing bacteria while calming inflamed pimples (dual benefit!). This means it’s working on the cause and the visible symptoms at the same time!
- SOOTHES SENSITIVE SKIN
- Struggling with redness? Irritation? Rosacea? HOCl helps calm it all down without causing further irritation. A rest button for angry skin!
- POST-SUN RELIEF
- Sunburn is essentially inflammation. HOCl cools, soothes, and helps protect damaged skin while it heals.
- BARRIER SUPPORT
- Your skin barrier is what keeps moisture in and irritants out. HOCl supports barrier repair and keeps your skin hydrated.
- HOCl is safe enough to use daily! It won’t strip or throw your skin barrier out of balance.
Hypochlorous acid can easily be paired with other skincare ingredients to really nourish your skin. You can read more about how you can combine HOCl and green tea to calm and soothe your skin here!
How to Use Hypochlorous Acid Spray
- Cleanse gently and pat your skin dry. Avoid any harsh cleansers or exfoliants that might strip your skin.
- A great option is Etude House SoonJung pH 6.5 Whip Cleanser (super mild and perfect for sensitive skin!)
- Spray HOCl directly onto your face or problem areas. No need for any wipes or cotton pads!
- Follow up with moisturizer or serum to lock in benefits.
- Try Innisfree Green Tea Seed Serum for lightweight hydration or Etude House SoonJung 2x Barrier Cream for extra barrier repair.
It's that simple (no rinsing needed!). You can even reapply throughout the day as a refreshing mist (yes even over makeup!).
Pro Tip: Keep a bottle in your gym bag or at your desk. It’s perfect for calming post-workout redness or refreshing your skin during long workdays..

Our Honeydew Labs Hypochlorous Acid Spray is gentle enough for daily use while delivering all the science-backed benefits.
So, what is hypochlorous acid? TLDR; It's a skincare ingredient your body already produces, but now bottled to fight breakouts and soothe irritation. It’s nature’s defense but now in a convenient mist you can keep on your shelf.
Ready to try it yourself? Get Honeydew Labs Hypochlorous Acid Spray and discover why this powerhouse ingredient is gaining so much attention.
Disclaimer
This blog is for informational purposes only and should not replace professional medical advice. If you have chronic skin conditions or severe reactions, consult a dermatologist before introducing new products.
Citations
- Fukuyama, T., et al. (2018). Hypochlorous acid and skin: Anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial effects. Journal of Dermatological Science.
- O'Neill, J., et al. (2021). The role of hypochlorous acid in dermatology. Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology.
- Block, S.S. (2001). Disinfection, Sterilization, and Preservation. Lippincott Williams & Wilkins.
Written by
Honeydew Labs Team