Science Quickly
A Disinfectant That’s More Powerful Than Bleach—And Safe for Your Skin
Apr 16, 2025
Join Jen Schwartz, Senior Features Editor at Scientific American, as she shares insights on hypochlorous acid, a disinfectant that's safer than bleach and even gentle on the skin. They dive into its medical and cosmetic uses, uncovering its potential in skincare and as an antiviral solution during health crises. Despite its effectiveness, the challenges of commercialization and stability complicate its broader adoption. Discover the exciting future of this powerful yet nontoxic cleaner!
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Quick takeaways
- Hypochlorous acid is a powerful, naturally occurring disinfectant that offers more than 100 times the efficacy of bleach while remaining safe for skin contact.
- Despite its effectiveness, hypochlorous acid's commercialization is hindered by challenges related to its stability and proper application techniques in products.
Deep dives
Exploring Hypochlorous Acid
Hypochlorous acid is highlighted as a powerful, all-natural disinfectant that is more than 100 times more effective than bleach, yet safe enough to be used on the skin and even sprayed in the eyes. This compound is produced naturally in our bodies by white blood cells to combat pathogens. Its increasing presence in various products, from sanitizers to skincare, underscores its versatility and effectiveness in different applications. The podcast discusses its potential not just as a surface cleaner but also as a possible preventive measure in healthcare settings.
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