As moms, we're always on the lookout for the safest, most effective ways to take care of our little ones' boo-boos, right? From scraped knees in the park to those mysterious little cuts they somehow always seem to get, it’s like a never-ending cycle of ‘ouchies’ and ‘uh-ohs’.
I've always preferred to take a natural, non-toxic route when selecting products for my kids when available. In fact, that's why I was so excited to hear about Hypochlorous Acid (HOCl) sprays—they've become my go-to for skin care and wound care. But if you're wondering, “What even is HOCl?”, don’t worry, you’re not alone. It's like a superhero ingredient that’s gentle yet powerful for common issues like cuts, scrapes, sunburns, and itchy rashes and won't irritate sensitive skin.
So if you're looking for a gentle, non-stinging, natural and effective “boo boo spray” as my son calls this in our house, I'm breaking down three popular HOCl sprays you can find on the market today – Magic Molecule, Active Skin Repair Spray, and Briotech Topical Skin Spray.
What exactly is hypochlorous acid?
Hypochlorous acid is naturally produced by the body's white blood cells to combat infection. This means it's a non-toxic and gentle solution that's effective against bacteria, viruses, and fungi. Originally, it was used in hospital care, it's now commonly being stocked in at-home first aid kits, since it helps reduce inflammation and promote healthy tissue regeneration, all without irritating the affected area.
How does hypochlorous acid compare to antibiotic cream?
Hypochlorous acid (HOCl) is gaining recognition as an alternative to traditional antibiotic creams for minor cuts, scrapes and burns, thanks to its unique antimicrobial properties. Unlike antibiotic creams, experts generally recognize it as safe and non-toxic. Another huge advantage of HOCl over traditional antibiotics is that it doesn't contribute to antibiotic resistance, which is a growing concern with today's overuse of antibiotics.
The best hypochlorous acid spray: Magic Molecule vs. Active Skin Repair vs. Briotech
Criteria #1: ingredient safety
Magic Molecule: FDA cleared. 100% clean, non-toxic, all-natural, vegan, cruelty-free. Free of alcohol, parabens, sulfates, phthalates, oil, talk and fragrance.
Active Skin Repair: Non-toxic, all-natural, free of alcohol. Phosphates in this spray often cause skin allergies and irritation.
Briotech: Vegan, free of additives, alcohol, oil, parabens, phthalates, preservatives and fragrance.
INGREDIENT SAFETY & CONCENTRATION WINNER: MAGIC MOLECULE
Criteria #2: hypochlorous acid concentration & effectiveness
Magic Molecule: Hypochlorous Acid concentrate of 0.018%. Recommended by dermatologists, skincare experts, and surgeons for over 50 common skin ailments like bug bites, ear piercing, cuts, scrapes, scratches, infected cuticles, eczema, sun burn and more. It's patented process has the longest shelf stability for maximum effectiveness and safety.
Active Skin Repair: Hypochlorous Acid concentrate of 0.012%. Recommended by doctors for minor cuts, scrapes, rashes, sunburns, and skin irritations.
Briotech: Hypochlorous Acid concentrate of 0.014%. Clinically tested and dermatologist approved to sooth skin, calm redness and itch.
EFFECTIVENESS WINNER: MAGIC MOLECULE
Criteria #3: Price
Magic Molecule: $37.00 for 8 oz spray plus 2x 2 oz sprays ($3.50/oz)
Active Skin Repair: $29.97 for 3 oz spray ($9.99/oz)
Briotech: $13.49 for 3.4 oz spray ($3.97/oz)
PRICE WINNER: MAGIC MOLECULE
My pick for the best hypochlorous acid spray is Magic Molecule
After testing several brands, it’s clear that Magic Molecule stands out as the top choice. It's effective, gentle on sensitive skin, convenient, and backed by some pretty impressive science. Now, I throw Magic Molecule's hypochlorous acid spray in our diaper bag, car, and first aid kit along with a few bandaids so I'm always prepared for the next toddler tumble. Whenever Caden asks for “boo boo spray” if he gets a scrape, I know exactly what to reach for. It's time for you to stock your home with Magic Molecule's healing spray too!
Get 15% off your purchase with code: NEWMODERNMOM15
And if you’re looking for more ways to keep your kids feeling their best, be sure to check out some of my other blogs. I’ve shared tips on choosing the best humidifiers for a baby’s room (a must for those dry winter seasons) and strategies for getting toddlers to eat more veggies. Also, another must-have is Beekeeper’s Naturals Propolis Throat Spray. It's part of our daily routine during the height of sick months.