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Using stabilized, super-oxidized hypochlorous acid during and after hair restoration surgery may assist in the healing process, according to a study.

“Stabilized, super-oxidized hypochlorous acid (HOCI) is highly effective against bacterial, fungal and viral microorganisms. In addition, topical HOCI will increase tissue oxygenation of wound sites to aid in healing,” Dow Stough, MD, of The Stough Clinic for Hair Restoration, wrote. “This molecule represents an ideal agent for intraoperative and postoperative use in hair restoration procedures which involve thousands of small wounds.”

To assess the efficacy of stabilized, super-oxidized HOCI in hair transplant recipients, Stough conducted a multi-site study including 35 patients who underwent repeat or initial hair restoration surgery. Surgeons used a 500 mL trigger spray bottle of HOCI spray liquid before and throughout the surgery. Patients were then supplied with enough HOCI for 10 days of postoperative care.

Results showed that 56% patients that used HOCI experienced higher rates of erythema reductions than when they used their previous wound healing regimen. A significant improvement in pruritus was also seen in 54% of patients, and 95% reported a reduction in itch by day 10.

All patients reported that the HOCI spray was easy to use and 97% complied with treatment. Further, no patients experienced donor or recipient tissue necrosis.

According to a survey about the HOCI spray given to physicians, 86% of physicians reported that they were pleased with results from the HOCI spray and planned to switch from their current regimen. Also, 69% of physicians found that their patients that used HOCI were able to return to daily activities sooner than expected.

“The use of HOCI in hair restoration surgery has been minimal, but there are compelling reasons that this agent will find a favorable niche,” Stough concluded.

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Stough D. J Drugs Dermatol. 2023;doi:10.36849/JDD.7172.

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