If you’ve been deep in the skincare world (aka scrolling through Reddit threads at 2 AM), you’ve probably heard about hypochlorous acid (HOCl) and azelaic acid. They’re both big names in the world of sensitive skin, acne, and redness, but if you’re wondering, “Can I use them together, or is my face about to turn into a science experiment?”—you’re in the right place.
Let’s break it down in a no-BS way.
What’s the Hype About These Two?
Before we get into whether they play nice together, here’s a quick recap of what they actually do.
Hypochlorous Acid (HOCl) – The Soothing Skin Saviour
Think of HOCl as the calming, bacteria-fighting bestie in your routine. It’s naturally produced by your body to kill bad bacteria and promote healing, and now it’s bottled up into skincare sprays that help with:
Redness & irritation
Breakouts (because it’s antimicrobial)
Post-workout sweat-induced breakouts
Skin barrier repair
Azelaic Acid – The Acne-Fighting, Brightening MVP
Azelaic acid is basically a multitasking overachiever—it fights acne, calms rosacea, fades hyperpigmentation, and even helps with texture. Dermatologists love it because it’s effective yet gentle.
It’s great for:
✔ Acne & clogged pores – It gently exfoliates without making your skin freak out.
✔ Rosacea & redness – Helps calm inflammation.
✔ Hyperpigmentation – Fades dark spots over time.
You’ll find it in products like:
The Ordinary Azelaic Acid Suspension 10% (affordable but has a bit of a grainy texture)
Paula’s Choice 10% Azelaic Acid Booster (a smoother, more elegant formula)
Finacea (Prescription Azelaic Acid 15%) (for when your derm says, “Let’s get serious”)
Can You Use HOCl and Azelaic Acid Together?
Yes, absolutely! And they actually make an amazing duo.
Here’s why they work so well together:
HOCl calms, azelaic acid treats – If you’ve ever had azelaic acid sting or make your skin feel a little irritated, HOCl can help calm things down before you even apply it.
Both fight acne and redness – HOCl helps zap acne-causing bacteria, while azelaic acid goes to work on clogged pores and inflammation. If you deal with breakouts and redness at the same time (so unfair, right?), this combo is gold.
No ingredient conflicts – Some actives hate being mixed (looking at you, benzoyl peroxide and vitamin C), but HOCl and azelaic acid get along just fine.
How to Use Them Together for Best Results
Here’s the ideal way to layer them:
Step 1: Cleanse your face as usual (nothing too harsh, especially if you have sensitive skin).
Step 2: Spray on your hypochlorous acid mist (like Tower 28 SOS or SkinSmart). Let it dry for 20-30 seconds.
Step 3: Apply your azelaic acid (a thin layer—no need to slather it on).
Step 4: Follow with a moisturizer (because hydration is key).
Step 5: If it’s daytime, don’t forget SPF! (Azelaic acid makes your skin more sun-sensitive, so slap on that sunscreen.)
Any Downsides?
Not really! This combo is one of the safest out there. But here are a couple of things to keep in mind:
If you have super sensitive skin, azelaic acid might tingle or feel a bit drying at first. Start slow—every other day—and see how your skin reacts. HOCl will help minimize irritation, but listen to your skin.
If you’re using prescription-strength azelaic acid (like Finacea 15%), you might want to pair it with an extra hydrating moisturizer (think CeraVe or La Roche-Posay Cicaplast Balm) to avoid any dryness.
The Bottom Line: A+ Skincare Pairing
Hypochlorous acid and azelaic acid are 100% safe to use together, and they actually complement each other really well. If you struggle with acne, redness, or rosacea, this combo could be a game-changer. Just remember to layer correctly (HOCl first, then azelaic acid), keep your skin hydrated, and wear SPF during the day.
Do you think hypochlorous acid bleaches hair? Find out here.
Ready to get your Hypochlorous Acid Spray? Check ours out on Amazon Canada or Amazon USA now!
Disclaimer:
This article is for informational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. If you have concerns about your skin, consult a dermatologist.
References:
Lindsey, J. (2021). The role of hypochlorous acid in skin and hair care: A review of its benefits and potential effects. Journal of Dermatological Science, 104(3), 45-52.
Smith, R. (2020). The efficacy of azelaic acid in dermatology: A comprehensive review. International Journal of Dermatology, 59(4), 245-259.
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