Hypochlorous acid has become a cornerstone in modern eyelid hygiene protocols - and for good reason. Though it’s a weak acid formed when chlorine dissolves in water, it delivers significant therapeutic benefits. Long recognized in wound care for its broad-spectrum antimicrobial activity, anti-inflammatory effects, and promotive role in tissue healing, hypochlorous acid is particularly well-suited for treating the delicate periocular area.
For patients with blepharitis, dry eye disease, or lash extensions, hypochlorous acid offers a non-irritating, non-cytotoxic cleansing option that can reduce microbial load, relieve inflammation, and improve lid margin health - without compromising the tear film or inducing hypersensitivity.
Why Recommend Hypochlorous Over Oil-Based Cleansers?
Oil-based lid hygiene products, especially those containing tea tree oil, coconut oil, or okra oil, can be effective - but they come with limitations. Irritation, allergic reactions, and tear film disruption are not uncommon, particularly in patients with sensitivities.
At Peeq Pro, we routinely recommend hypochlorous acid-based cleansers such as those from Optase and Pure&Clean, especially for patients with eyelash extensions or ocular sensitivities. Products like Optase Protect Eyelid Cleansing Spray and Pure&Clean Lid Prep Hydrogel are gentle yet effective, and their gel-based formats pair well with application tools like spoolies or mascara brushes for precise, targeted cleansing.
Evidence-Based Efficacy in Treating Blepharitis
A 2023 clinical study reinforced what many in the field already observe in practice: hypochlorous acid is effective in managing blepharitis, particularly forms associated with Demodex or bacterial overgrowth. Its antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties help alleviate hallmark symptoms - such as redness, itching, and lid crusting - while reducing the risk of exacerbating meibomian gland dysfunction or ocular surface disease.
Clinical Scenarios for Hypochlorous Use
We consistently advise the use of hypochlorous acid in the following patient scenarios:
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Patients with Lash Extensions or False Lashes: For patients with cosmetic lash enhancements, mechanical cleansing can be difficult. Harsh products may compromise the adhesive or irritate the lid margin. In these cases, gel-based hypochlorous solutions such as Optase Protect Eyelid Cleansing Spray or Pure&Clean Lid Prep Hydrogel allow for effective debris and biofilm removal when applied with a spoolie brush - without damaging the lash bonds.
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Patients with Sensitivities to Oils: For patients reporting adverse reactions to oil-based cleansers - particularly those with atopic skin or a history of allergic contact dermatitis - hypochlorous acid offers a hypoallergenic alternative. This is particularly relevant for those who cannot tolerate tea tree oil, a common irritant despite its popularity in lid hygiene.
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Low Compliance or Limited Access to Washing Facilities: For patients with physical limitations, busy schedules, or reduced access to sink-based cleansing routines, no-rinse hypochlorous formulations offer an excellent solution. Products like Optase Protect Eyelid Cleansing Spray, Pure&Clean Lid Prep Spray, Pure&Clean Lid Prep Hydrogel, and Pure&Clean Lid Prep Drops provide consistent, effective hygiene without the need for water. This improves compliance and supports ongoing lid margin health.
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Ocular Surface or Inner Lid Inflammation: In patients with significant inner lid or ocular surface inflammation, traditional lid wipes may not be appropriate. Pure&Clean Lid Prep Drops, designed for intraocular application, offer a drop-form hypochlorous solution that provides both antimicrobial action and surface soothing - making them an excellent choice for more advanced or refractory presentations.
Clinical Takeaways
Hypochlorous acid is more than just a gentle cleanser - it’s a clinically validated, highly versatile tool in the optometrist’s toolkit. From routine lid hygiene to adjunct therapy for chronic blepharitis or dry eye, its safety profile and efficacy make it an ideal first-line recommendation.
At Peeq Pro, we support the use of evidence-based products like Optase Protect Eyelid Cleansing Spray and Pure&Clean Lid Prep solutions to elevate patient outcomes and ensure optimal eyelid health. Whether as a daily hygiene solution or part of a treatment plan, hypochlorous acid should be part of every dry eye and blepharitis protocol.