Moms Discover Natural Healing Power of Acid

Hypochlorous acid, a compound the human body produces to combat infection and aid healing, is becoming popular as a safe, over-the-counter remedy for common skin problems. Originally used in medical settings, it is now found in consumer products, though quality varies.

A natural part of the immune response

White blood cells generate hypochlorous acid when skin is injured. “If you get cut, scraped, or burned, your body dispatches white blood cells to the site, and inside those cells is this compound,” said Justin Gardner, founder of Active Skin Repair, which produces medical-grade versions. “We’ve learned how to recreate that same molecule in liquid and gel form for topical use.”

The compound calms inflammation and speeds up healing. Though chemically similar to bleach, it is far more effective and as safe as saline. Users experience no allergic reactions, no need for synthetic antibiotics, and no harsh side effects.

Hospitals rely on it to prevent infections after surgery, treat diabetic ulcers, and manage burns. The FDA has approved some versions for over-the-counter use, allowing people to use it at home. Still, many remain unaware of its benefits or doubt its effectiveness.

From doubt to daily use

Gardner worked in the medical field for 20 years before focusing on hypochlorous acid. He first learned about it while running a marketing agency for regenerative medical technologies. “A medical device company introduced me to it and wanted help launching it in hospitals,” he recalled. “The more I studied it, the more impressed I was by how simple and effective it was.”

The company behind the technology had no plans to sell it to consumers. Gardner saw potential and approached them. “I told them this belongs in every home,” he said. When they declined, he licensed the formula and launched his own brand.

Parents now rely on the product for cuts, scrapes, diaper rash, and eczema. “It’s the first thing my kids ask for when they’re hurt,” said Katie Wells, host of the Wellness Mama podcast, where Gardner appeared recently. “I use it as a nipple cream, a diaper cream, even for acne. It’s like a Swiss Army knife for skin care.”

For families, it replaces multiple items in a medicine cabinet. Hypochlorous acid is part of the body’s natural defense system. “There are no restrictions,” Gardner noted. “It’s safe for open wounds, sensitive skin, and infants.”

Quality varies among products

The compound’s popularity on social media has led to many new brands, most of which don’t match medical-grade standards. “Almost all of these are cosmetic products,” Gardner said. “They’re made by contract manufacturers who don’t know how to stabilize the molecule properly.”

Stability and concentration matter most. Hypochlorous acid is unstable and requires an exact concentration and a pH between 5 and 7 to work. Many cosmetic brands omit expiration dates or lot numbers, making it impossible to verify their strength. “We test every batch,” Gardner said.

Adding fragrances, dyes, or other ingredients can reduce its power. “Every time we’ve mixed it with something else, the active compound breaks down,” he said. “We’ve tested other brands that claim to include it, and often there’s little or none left.”

Consumers should look for products with FDA clearance for open wounds, an expiration date, and a lot number. These features indicate better quality control. Without them, there’s no assurance the product will work.

The growing interest in hypochlorous acid mirrors a shift toward safer, multi-purpose health products. But not all options live up to their claims. The compound is effective only when formulated correctly.

Gardner’s company has expanded quickly, with over a million customers now using its products. “A decade ago, no one had heard of hypochlorous acid,” he said. “Today, it’s common. The challenge is helping people choose the right version.”

For those managing skin irritation, the right formulation can make a noticeable difference.