Hypochlorous Acid for Eyelids: What It Is and Does It Work?

Nizam Diveli

By Nizam Diveli, registered optometrist and founder of BlinkBetter

Hypochlorous acid (HOCl) is a mild substance your own white blood cells produce to fight germs. In low-strength saline sprays it's used to cleanse the eyelids without rubbing, soap or rinsing.

What is it?

Hypochlorous acid is part of the body's natural immune defence. In eyelid hygiene it's typically used at around 0.01% in a saline solution that's sprayed onto closed lids and lashes.

What does the evidence say?

  • A study of the skin around the eyes found a 0.01% hypochlorous acid hygiene solution reduced staphylococcal bacteria by more than 99% twenty minutes after application, without changing the overall mix of species left behind (Stroman et al., Clinical Ophthalmology 2017).
  • A randomised trial in people with blepharitis found 0.01% hypochlorous acid eyelid hygiene improved symptom scores and lid margin redness over two weeks (2023 RCT).
  • A 2023 study comparing a hypochlorous acid hygiene solution with hyaluronic acid wipes in people with blepharitis and dry eye found both helped, with a larger drop in bacterial load in the hypochlorous acid group (BMJ Open Ophthalmology).

The skin is recolonised fairly quickly, so it works best as part of a regular routine, not a one-off.

Is it safe around the eyes?

At eyelid-hygiene strengths it's generally well tolerated and doesn't sting the way many cleansers can. Spray onto closed eyes, and stop if you notice irritation. It isn't a treatment for infections like conjunctivitis or a stye; see a pharmacist, optometrist or GP for those.

Which BlinkBetter products contain it?

Read more: Blepharitis guide · Styes and chalazions

This page is general information about a cosmetic or device ingredient, not medical advice. If you have a known allergy or a sore, red eye, speak to an optometrist or pharmacist before using new products around your eyes.

More ingredient guides: all ingredients · Eye care guides: the Journal

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