Hypochlorous Acid for Acne: A Natural Solution for Clearer Skin
Hypochlorous acid as been a huge trend lately, with it being a staple in many gym bags to use after a workout. What makes this spray so popular? Does hypochlorous spray really help with post-workout acne? And should you grab some to throw in your gym bag?
In this blog post, we’ll discuss what hypochlorous acid is, how it works for acne, and different products containing hypochlorous acid.
Disclosure: this post may contain affiliate links, meaning I get a commission if you decide to make a purchase through my links.
What is Hypochlorous Acid?
Hypochlorous acid (HOCl) is an acidic substance that forms when chlorine dissolves in water. HOCl is an effective antimicrobial agent, meaning it can kill off bacteria, fungus, and viruses. Hypochlorous acid is actually made by the cells in our body as part of the immune system. When your body comes into contact with an infection or injury, hypochlorous acid is released by certain immune cells (neutrophils, eosinophils, phagocytes, and B lymphocytes) to help fight off the infection or repair the injury.
Outside of the body, hypochlorous acid is used as a cleaning agent, a sanitizer, and in skin care. You can find it being used in outpatient surgical centers to disinfect and clean rooms. HOCl is also great at helping to support wound healing and is often used to help reduce bacteria in post operative wound care.
How does hypochlorous acid help acne?
Some skin care products may use hypochlorous acid to help with skin problems like acne, eczema, and psoriasis. When it comes to acne, a hypochlorous acid can be a great option, especially after workouts.
When exercising, you tend to sweat and this can breed bacteria. Bacteria can end up triggering more inflammation and breakouts on the skin. By spraying hypochlorous acid on your face after a workout, it can cleanse the face and kill off any bacteria present.
Now this doesn't replace a shower or washing your face, let's be clear! But if you're running errands after the gym and not able to shower right away, or running around and sweating on a hot day, this can be a great rescue remedy. Hypochlorous acid is a great addition to your summer skin routine.
Hypochlorous acid is a great way to reduce redness and inflammation in the skin, so if you're already experiencing a breakout, this can be a great way to address acne.
What else can hypochlorous acid do?
Great for eczema and psoriasis, helps to reduce itch, inflammation, and redness
Helpful with sunburns
Blocks UVB ray absorption, some studies shows it may be protective against skin cancer (not recommending this to be a replacement for sunscreen!)
Helps with the healing process of wounds
A good option as a hand sanitizer
How to Use Hypochlorous Acid:
Because hypochlorous acid is already made by your body, it's pretty gentle and okay to use on sensitive skin. There are many products out there with hypochlorous acid, I personally use Active Skin Repair that can be found on Amazon. It's small enough to throw in your purse or gym bag and carry with you on the go.
Products with hypochlorous acid to help reduce your acne:
What else do you need to know about acne?
Remember, with acne it’s important to make sure you’re addressing the root cause. Hypochlorous acid can be helpful, but on a skin level. Healing from acne requires addressing areas deeper than your skin including your gut, hormones, and inflammation.
Dealing with acne is like the check engine light coming on in your car, you need to look under the hood to investigate the problem and address the problem. When we work together, I ask pointed questions and recommend comprehensive lab testing in order to get down to the root cause of your acne. This way we can address where the problem is coming from to get you clear skin!
If you’re looking for a whole body and holistic approach to acne, schedule a free discovery call with me to see if my Acne Healing Package can be a good option for you!
Talk soon,
Dr. Alyssa
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