hypochlorous acid

noun

hy·​po·​chlo·​rous acid ˌhī-pə-ˈklȯr-əs- 

: an unstable strongly oxidizing but weak acid HClO obtained in solution along with hydrochloric acid by reaction of chlorine with water and used especially in the form of salts as an oxidizing agent, bleaching agent, disinfectant, and chlorinating agent

Examples of hypochlorous acid in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

To promote healing, Dr. Shirazi recommends hypochlorous acid products like Magic Molecule's The Solution Antimicrobial Skin Cleanser. —Jenny Berg, Allure, 25 July 2025

Almost anyone dealing with skin inflammation can benefit from hypochlorous acid, says Hooper. —Tom Gavin, EverydayHealth.com, 6 June 2025

Influencers are also hailing hypochlorous acid as a cure-all for acne, eczema, rosacea, and razor bumps. —Tom Gavin, EverydayHealth.com, 6 June 2025

But as celebrity facialist Sofie Pavitt reminded me during a facial, hypochlorous acid only cleanses. —Jessica Ourisman, Forbes.com, 6 May 2025

Word History

Etymology

International Scientific Vocabulary

First Known Use

1841, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for hypochlorous acid

• antacid
• placid

Medical Definition

hypochlorous acid

noun

hy·​po·​chlo·​rous acid -ˌklōr-əs-, -ˌklȯr- 

: an unstable strongly oxidizing but weak acid HClO obtained in solution along with hydrochloric acid by reaction of chlorine with water and used especially in the form of salts as an oxidizing agent, bleaching agent, disinfectant, and chlorinating agent