13/10/2025
Both hypochlorous acid (HOCl) -:HYDROCYN SPRAY and cetrimide - XOTRIM2 are antiseptic agents often used by dermatologists and skincare professionals to clean skin, especially when there’s acne, blemishes, or minor wounds.
🧪 1. Hypochlorous Acid (HOCl)
What it is:
A naturally occurring molecule your immune system makes to fight bacteria, viruses, and inflammation.
How it helps acne and blemishes:
✅ Kills acne-causing bacteria (Cutibacterium acnes) without irritating the skin.
✅ Reduces inflammation — so redness, swelling, and tenderness improve.
✅ Speeds up healing of broken pimples, wounds, or blemishes.
✅ Safe and gentle — non-toxic, non-irritating, and suitable for sensitive or acne-prone skin.
⚠️ Limit: It’s not a moisturizer or active acne treatment by itself — it’s more of a supportive cleanser or healing spray.
Typical use:
Applied as a spray, mist, or solution once or twice daily after cleansing.
🧴 2. Cetrimide Lotion
What it is:
A quaternary ammonium compound antiseptic (similar to benzalkonium chloride).
How it helps acne/blemishes:
✅ Cleans skin and prevents infection in minor cuts, pimples, or ulcers.
✅ Removes bacteria, dirt, and excess oil from the surface.
⚠️ Stronger antiseptic than HOCl — can sometimes dry or irritate skin if overused.
⚠️ Not for widespread facial use unless diluted or prescribed — it’s mainly for spot cleaning or disinfecting wounds.
💡 Why a doctor might use both
Doctors may use HOCl for daily gentle cleansing and inflammation control, and cetrimide occasionally for deep cleaning or wound disinfection, e.g. before extraction or to prevent secondary infection in acne lesions.
