The most fashionable cosmetic ingredient discussed on social networks is hypochlorous acid. Where did it come from, how does it work, and is it worth our attention?
Sprays with this component promise to help skin with acne, eczema, psoriasis, rosacea, and atopic dermatitis and relieve sensitive skin redness; social network bloggers suggest taking them to the gym to use after a workout.
You can use hypochlorous acid for body odor improvement. In this article, we will figure out this miracle remedy and how to apply it correctly.
What Is It?
Modern cosmetology actively uses substances that were previously used exclusively in medicine.
One of these components is hypochlorous acid (HOCl), a unique compound with antiseptic properties that is safe for the skin.
Despite the frightening name, this substance gently interacts with the skin and effectively fights various problems.
This acid can be called a product “invented” by nature itself. It is produced by our immune cells—leukocytes—when the body needs to protect itself from infections.
HOCl helps fight bacteria and viruses without damaging its own tissues. In laboratory conditions, scientists stabilized this substance in order to use it in cosmetics—sprays, lotions, and creams.
This form of HOCl has become safe and convenient for regular use.
Areas of Application
First of all, it is universal. It simultaneously cleanses, soothes, and helps heal. And it does it gently, without a feeling of tightness and dryness. HOCl is suitable for:
- People with sensitive skin are prone to irritation;
- Teenagers and adults with acne;
- Those who have recently undergone cosmetic procedures;
- Parents of small children, for the care of delicate baby skin.
Forms and methods of application
HOCl-based sprays are a convenient option for daily cleansing, especially in hot weather or after physical activity.
They do not contain alcohol and do not dry out the skin. Lotions with this component are often used for acne: they reduce inflammation and the number of rashes without damaging the skin’s protective layer.
Post-procedure products—peeling, laser, or cleansing—with HOCl help the skin recover without the risk of infection.
Baby cosmetics also sometimes contain this component: they gently care for babies’ skin and eliminate diaper rash.
Why Is It Safe?
Hypochlorous acid is considered one of the few components that do not disturb the natural balance of the skin. It is not addictive, does not affect the skin’s acidity level, and does not contain aggressive additives.
The only thing that is important is to observe the expiration dates since the substance loses its effectiveness if misused.
It exemplifies how modern technology and natural mechanisms combine to benefit the skin.
Its versatility, safety, and gentle action make HOCl an indispensable component for people with different skin types and different tasks, from problem skincare to recovery after procedures. When used correctly, this substance really works—and not just in theory.
So What Exactly Does This Acid Do in Cosmetics?
Cosmetics with this ingredient have several effects:
- Soothes the skin.
- Promotes healing and restoration of the skin barrier.
- Helps acne skin fight bacteria that cause inflammation.
- It relieves irritation, redness, itching, and swelling of sensitive skin. Its anti-inflammatory properties make it suitable for use in atopic dermatitis, psoriasis, eczema, and seborrheic dermatitis.
This ingredient creates conditions for the skin to recover on its own. It “promotes re-epithelialization during wound healing, having low cytotoxicity towards keratinocytes and fibroblasts.”
How It Helps with Odor
Before we discuss using hypochlorous acid to eliminate body odor, it’s worth examining where sweat odor comes from.
Reasons
To help you combat the problem, it’s essential to understand where sweat odor comes from. The human body has two types of sweat glands: eccrine and apocrine.
Eccrine glands are located throughout the body and open directly onto the skin’s surface. They produce a thin, watery, odorless sweat that helps cool the body through evaporation.
Apocrine glands are located in areas with many hair follicles, such as the scalp, armpits, and groin, and produce a waxier, oilier sweat that contains cellular debris attractive to bacteria.
It’s the activity of bacteria that causes sweat odor. Hormonal fluctuations, stress, and excess caffeine, among other known factors, can increase apocrine sweat production.
Although sweat is virtually odorless, it is a breeding ground for bacteria, breaking down the secreted substances into acids and causing that unpleasant sweat odor. To combat it, there are a number of simple recommendations.
The Effect of Hypochlorous Acid
As we already understand, the smell is caused by bacteria, which is why the acid works perfectly. Thus, you can get rid of the unpleasant smell without harming your skin and the whole body.
Moreover, if you have irritations, then applying the acid will have a beneficial effect.
To combat sweat odor, it is best to use the acid in the form of a spray and apply it to the body after a shower. Unlike antiperspirants, this component does not have fragrances that mask the smell.
It fights the very cause of its occurrence.
Conclusion
It is essential to mask the smell of sweat and effectively combat the problem. Since the root of the problem lies in bacteria, hypochlorous acid can come to the rescue.
At low concentrations (compared to other antiseptics based on chlorine compounds), a minimal amount of this acid in the solution effectively kills harmful bacteria. It is 100% safe and does not cause allergies.
Nothing will happen if it gets into your eyes or you accidentally swallow it. At the same time, it kills microbial pathogens 70-80 times more effectively than bleach.
