Hypochlorous acid (HOCl) is quickly becoming a go-to solution for skincare enthusiasts, thanks to its unique ability to cleanse, heal, and protect. But how exactly do you incorporate this powerhouse ingredient into your daily routine for maximum benefit? Let’s explore that today!
Why Hypochlorous Acid is a Must-Have for Skincare
Hypochlorous acid is a naturally occurring compound that your immune system produces to help fight bacteria and reduce inflammation. When used in skincare, it mimics these properties, making it an effective yet gentle solution for various skin concerns, from acne and redness to minor cuts and scrapes. According to research published in Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, hypochlorous acid is both safe and versatile, suitable for regular use across all skin types.

Step-by-Step Guide: How to Use Hypochlorous Acid
Whether you're adding it to an existing routine or starting fresh, hypochlorous acid can easily fit into any skincare regimen. Here’s how:
Cleanse Your Skin First: Before applying hypochlorous acid, cleanse your skin to remove dirt, oil, and makeup. Use a gentle cleanser that won’t irritate your skin. Afterward, pat your skin dry, leaving it slightly damp to help the product absorb more effectively.
Apply Hypochlorous Acid: Once your face is clean, apply hypochlorous acid either as a mist or with a cotton pad. If you're using a spray, hold it about 6-8 inches away from your face and spritz lightly. Focus on problem areas prone to breakouts, irritation, or redness. You can find convenient spray formulations of hypochlorous acid in our online shop.
Let It Absorb: Hypochlorous acid works best when left to air dry on the skin. It’s non-sticky and dries quickly, so you won’t need to rinse it off. This step allows it to target harmful bacteria and soothe inflammation without disrupting your skin’s natural moisture balance.
Follow with Moisturizer: After the hypochlorous acid has absorbed, follow up with your usual moisturizer to lock in hydration. It’s important to maintain moisture in the skin, as hypochlorous acid can sometimes cause slight dryness, especially for those with already dry skin.
Use Throughout the Day: Hypochlorous acid is mild enough to be used multiple times a day. You can carry a travel-sized spray for a quick refresh, especially after exposure to environmental stressors like pollution or sun. For U.S. customers, our product is also available on Amazon US, and for Canadian shoppers, it’s available on Amazon Canada.
When to Use Hypochlorous Acid
Hypochlorous acid is highly versatile, which means you can tailor its use depending on your skin’s needs:
Morning Routine: Use hypochlorous acid in the morning after cleansing to provide a protective barrier against bacteria and pollutants throughout the day.
Evening Routine: After washing your face in the evening, applying hypochlorous acid will help calm and repair skin after a day of exposure to the elements.
Post-Workout: Use it after exercise to cleanse the skin of sweat and bacteria that can lead to breakouts.
For Breakouts and Irritation: Apply directly to pimples, redness, or cuts to help calm inflammation and speed up the healing process. A study from Dermatology Research and Practice suggests that hypochlorous acid can help reduce acne-causing bacteria, making it a powerful tool for acne management .

What to avoid with hypochlorous acid in your skincare routine
When using hypochlorous acid (HOCl) in your skincare routine, it’s generally well-tolerated and compatible with most ingredients, but there are some combinations that you should approach with caution to avoid reducing its effectiveness or irritating the skin. Here’s what to potentially avoid:
Strong Acids: Hypochlorous acid is already mildly acidic. Combining it with stronger acids like glycolic acid, salicylic acid, or lactic acid may lead to over-exfoliation and skin irritation, particularly for sensitive skin types. It's best to alternate these ingredients in your routine rather than use them together.
Benzoyl Peroxide: While hypochlorous acid can work well for acne, pairing it with benzoyl peroxide might be too harsh for sensitive skin. Both have antibacterial properties, but together, they could potentially cause dryness or irritation. Depending on how sensitive your skin is, it may be better to alternate these treatments. Check out a detailed blog here on how hypochlorous acid reacts with Benzoyl Peroxide here.
Retinoids: Hypochlorous acid is soothing and calming, but combining it with powerful retinoids or retinol can increase the chance of irritation for those with sensitive or compromised skin. Retinoids are best used separately or on alternating nights. Check out a detailed blog here on how hypochlorous acid reacts with retinoids!
Highly Fragranced Products: Hypochlorous acid is gentle and non-irritating, but combining it with skincare products that contain high concentrations of synthetic fragrances or essential oils may lead to irritation or allergic reactions.
Vitamin C: Hypochlorous acid and vitamin C can generally be used together, but be mindful of the pH levels and potential for irritation. For best results, consider alternating them or using them at different times of day (e.g., vitamin C in the morning and HOCl in the evening). Check out a detailed blog here on how to use hypochlorous acid with Vitamin C!
Incorporate It Into Your Routine with Ease
The beauty of hypochlorous acid lies in its simplicity—it works well with almost any skincare product, making it easy to integrate into your existing routine. Whether you’re dealing with acne, sensitive skin, or just want to keep your skin clean and protected, hypochlorous acid is a must-have in any regimen.
DISCLAIMER: Our skincare articles aim to provide educational information about various ingredients and skincare topics. They are meant for general knowledge and should not be considered medical advice or treatment suggestions. Please remember that products from Honeydew Labs, mentioned in connection with specific ingredients, are intended for cosmetic use only and are not meant to replace professional medical consultations or pharmaceutical advice.
References:
Pattison, G., & Jones, C. (2020). The Role of Hypochlorous Acid in Cosmetic Dermatology. Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 19(7), 1580-1587.
Kim, J., Lee, J., & Lee, S. Y. (2019). The Antimicrobial and Healing Properties of Hypochlorous Acid in Acne Management. Dermatology Research and Practice, 2019, 1-7.
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