Why is pH and PPM so important?

With HOCl's popular rise in skin treatment we get a lot of customers asking about the interaction between pH and PPM to form effective Hypochlorous Acid Water. It is important to understand because there are lots of variations on the market. The following is a brief explanation on how this interaction works and why we take so much effort to manufacture the purest, safest and most effective range of products possible. It's easy to spray and pray but, that's not what we are about at SpraySafe, we put the effort into refining our products.

Interaction of pH and ppm

For hypochlorous acid (HOCl) to be effective and safe as a facial spray we maintain that the following parameters are optimal:

1. Concentration (PPM): The recommended concentration of hypochlorous acid in solution is between 50 to 100 ppm for human skincare purposes. In this range, HOCl effectively kills acne-causing bacteria (like Cutibacterium acnes) while being gentle on the skin. Higher ppm can be used for commercial and medical purposes.
   

2. pH Level: HOCl is most effective in a slightly acidic to the neutral pH 7, ideally between 5.5 and 6.5. This range aligns with the natural pH of healthy skin and ensures that the HOCl remains in its most active and stable form.
   

Safety and Benefits:

Hypochlorous acid, at these concentrations, is non-toxic, anti-inflammatory, and well-tolerated by most skin types, including sensitive and acne-prone skin. It helps reduce redness and irritation associated with acne and other skin disorders and it is suitable for daily use.

At 70ppm our Re:Juve range is specifically formulated for facial application, higher concentrations can cause irritation. Maintaining this ppm and pH balance, with our generation 3 equipment, maximises effectiveness while ensuring absolute safety for our consumers.

Impact of time on pH and ppm

Time and exposure to air can significantly impact the stability of hypochlorous acid in terms of its pH, ppm concentration, and efficacy. Here’s what happens-

1. Impact of Air and Time on HOCl Stability

   •pH Drift:

HOCl is stable in a narrow pH range (5.5–6.5). Prolonged exposure to air can cause carbon dioxide absorption, which lowers the pH and destabilises the solution, potentially converting HOCl into less effective forms like chloride ions or chlorates.

   •   Chlorine Smell:

Degradation over time can release free chlorine (Cl₂) gas, which contributes to a strong chlorine smell, especially if the pH becomes too acidic or the solution is exposed to heat or light.

   •   Loss of PPM:

Hypochlorous acid concentration diminishes due to evaporation, exposure to UV light, and reactions with organic materials in the water or impurities in storage containers. This reduces its antimicrobial power.

2. How we maintain stability

To preserve the efficacy of Hypochlorous acid, without the chlorine smell, over time:

• Use dark, UV-blocking bottles to prevent degradation by light.

• Opt for airtight containers to minimize exposure to oxygen and CO₂.

• Maintain a consistent pH (5.0–6.5) using automated monitoring systems during production.

• Minimise Additives and we use only the purest water during production

• Manufacture On-Demand to reduce shipping time and maximise shelf life and efficacy

  
  

In summary

With our advanced technology and local manufacture using pure NZ water we are able to strictly maintain the pH range without using additives and can therefore make gentle yet highly effective product that is effective for longer. Our products are, odor free and stable.

• SpraySafe Re:Juve, Skin Treatment Mist products are specifically formulated with precise HOCl concentration of 70ppm. Ensuring effective protection even with a fine mist application to facial and larger skin areas. Providing more reliable results.

• SpraySafe Protect, Sanitiser & Deodoriser Spray is formulated as a general use product with HOCl concentration of 40-60PPM. Used for a broader spectrum of applications that are generally applied from closer range and smaller areas therefore not requiring higher concentration to accommodate surface area and exposure to air.
  

For more information visit our 'How it Works' page

SpraySafe, powerful safe hygiene and skincare from pure NZ water