Hypochlorous acid
What it is and what it is used for
Hypochlorous acid, written with the formula HOCl, is a molecule naturally present in our immune system. It is produced by white blood cells (neutrophils) to protect us from pathogens, fight infections and help us in the healing process.
When the organism is attacked, neutrophils produce an explosion of bactericidal chemicals (oxidative explosion or respiratory burst) where hypochlorous acid is the most powerful oxidizing agent capable of destroying the cell membrane and inactivating invaders.
When recreated outside the human body, as in the case of Ecasan, hypochlorous acid maintains the same protective benefits while also demonstrating soothing, antioxidant and support properties for the skin's natural regenerative processes.
Our formula
Hypochlorous Acid is not a recent discovery: already during the First World War it was used by soldiers to treat wounds. However, due to its chemical instability, this solution is not yet widely known and used, despite its numerous benefits.
Years of development and research, resulting in a patented technology, have led Ecasan to definitively resolve this aspect and bring a range of stable and effective solutions to the market.
The formula behind our products is very simple: an aqueous solution, electrolytically activated, called “hypochlorous acid”.
A gift of nature to share with everyone.
In reality, there is more than one method to obtain hypochlorous acid. We have chosen the one we consider safest and most reliable: electrochemical activation, a “green” technology based on a cell patented by us.
By simply activating with electrical energy a solution of purified water and very pure sodium chloride, we obtain our hypochlorous acid, which we use to create products for the hygiene and well-being of people and animals.
Warning: Not all hypochlorous acid is the same
There are some methods of producing hypochlorous acid that involve the use of hypochlorite (common bleach), correction agents or other chemical additives that remain in the product, making it impure.
Ecasan, thanks to advanced technology and rigorous control of parameters, produces and offers only the purest hypochlorous acid . Years of research and study have shown us that purity, combined with other fundamental parameters such as pH, electrical potential and stability, are essential to obtain a perfectly effective product.
The properties of hypochlorous acid: Disinfectant mechanism
At a chemical level, given its neutral charge, the hypochlorous acid molecule is able to penetrate the cell wall of pathogens and then inactivate them, thanks to its high antioxidant power.
Furthermore, unlike other disinfectants, it does not allow microorganisms to adapt to its bactericidal effect, thus avoiding the development of resistance.
Powerful yet gentle on skin, eyes and mucous membranes , it is suitable for spraying on objects, fabrics and surfaces as well as vaporising in environments.
The properties of hypochlorous acid: Soothing mechanism
In addition to its bactericidal efficacy, hypochlorous acid naturally has soothing, hydrating, antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.
It is therefore suitable for promoting general well-being and hydration of the skin , protecting it from irritation, redness and stress due to sun exposure or rubbing, soothing the sensation of itching and accelerating the natural skin regenerative processes.
These properties, combined with the total safety of the product, make it suitable for daily use even by people with sensitive skin or children.
Fields of application
Hypochlorous acid is a non-toxic and gentle yet extremely effective solution: that's why its uses are almost endless!
Thanks to its antibacterial and soothing properties, it is suitable for the hygiene and care of the skin , including the most sensitive ones.
It is suitable for cleaning and caring for pets , as well as for safely cleaning their toys and everyday objects.
Given its green biocide properties, it is used for cleaning objects, fabrics, surfaces and for sanitizing environments in homes, offices, shops, gyms, schools, clinics.
Find out how we use it in our products.