Is Hypochlorous Acid (HOCl) Bleach?

Although they both belong to the chlorine family, they are two very different products. Sodium Hypochlorite, whose chemical formula is NaClO, is highly alkaline and therefore irritating and corrosive to the skin, lungs and eyes. It should be used very carefully. Hypochlorous Acid, whose formula is HOCl, is a weak acid formulated to be close to the physiological pH of the human body (pH-7). It is not corrosive or irritating and has no special handling or disposal requirements. However, it is 100 times more effective than sodium hypochlorite. While the hypochlorite ion carries a negative electrical charge, hypochlorous acid does not carry an electrical charge. Hypochlorous acid acts quickly, can oxidize bacteria in a few seconds. Hypochlorous acid's lack of electrical charge allows it to more efficiently penetrate the protective barriers surrounding microbes.

An interesting fact is that we need much more bleach to achieve the same level of antimicrobial power as hypochlorous acid. HOCl is a much more effective and harmless antimicrobial than bleach. Therefore, it can be used on skin, animals, food and many industrial applications. Some examples of hypochlorous acid uses include eye care, wound healing, and veterinary care products. Hypochlorous acid is safe.