Why do ppm and pH matter in hypochlorous acid mouthwash?
ppm, or parts per million, tells you the concentration of hypochlorous acid (HOCl) in the solution. pH affects how much of the available chlorine exists as HOCl versus hypochlorite ion (OCl−). Both help describe the formulation, but neither number alone determines whether an HOCl mouthwash is better or more appropriate for oral use.
What Does ppm Mean in HOCl Mouthwash?
ppm stands for parts per million and measures HOCl concentration. For example, 100 ppm HOCl is equivalent to 0.01%. A higher ppm means a higher concentration, but it does not automatically mean a better oral rinse.
Oral and dental research has evaluated HOCl at different concentrations and in different formulations. Human studies have included HOCl mouthwashes at 100 ppm as well as higher concentrations, rather than establishing one universal concentration for oral use.[1][2]
Why Does pH Matter in HOCl Mouthwash?
pH is a measure of how acidic or alkaline a solution is. In an HOCl solution, pH also affects how much of the available chlorine exists as hypochlorous acid (HOCl) versus hypochlorite (OCl−). At a mildly acidic pH, more exists as HOCl, the form with greater antimicrobial activity.[3]
That’s why ppm and pH need to be considered together: ppm tells you the concentration, while pH influences the form of chlorine in the solution. But a lower pH does not automatically mean a better mouthwash. The overall formulation and intended use matter too.
Why Does the Intended Use Matter?
HOCl is not a one-size-fits-all formulation. Concentration and pH should be considered based on how and where the solution will be used. An HOCl oral rinse has different formulation needs than an HOCl product designed for skincare, pet care or surface cleaning.
River Refresh Oral Rinse is formulated specifically for use in the mouth at 100 ppm (0.01%) HOCl and pH 6.5-7. Those specifications differ from our other HOCl formulations because each is designed around its intended use.
Knowing the ppm and pH also provides transparency about what you’re using. These specifications should be clearly provided so you can understand the formulation rather than relying on “hypochlorous acid” on the label alone.
River Refresh
Oral Rinse
Freshly activated 100 ppm HOCl oral rinse for fresh breath and everyday oral hygiene.
Shop Now →Related Oral Care Articles
- Hypochlorous Acid for Oral Care: Uses, Safety, and Fresh Breath
- Does Hypochlorous Acid Mouthwash Help With Bad Breath?
- Is Hypochlorous Acid Mouthwash Safe for Daily Use?
- Hypochlorous Acid Mouthwash vs. Alcohol-Based Mouthwash: What's the Difference?
- How Can Hypochlorous Acid Mouthwash Support Gum Health?
- What Does the Research Say About Hypochlorous Acid Mouthwash?
- How to Use Hypochlorous Acid Oral Rinse
References
1. Effects of Hypochlorous Acid Mouthwash on Salivary Bacteria Including Staphylococcus aureus in Patients with Periodontal Disease: A Randomized Controlled Trial
Lin YC, Tsai CF, Huang HL. BMC Oral Health. 2023. View Study | PubMed
Evaluated a 100 ppm HOCl mouthwash in patients with periodontal disease and found significant reductions in salivary bacterial counts after rinsing.
2. Evaluation of Substantivity of Hypochlorous Acid as an Antiplaque Agent: A Randomized Controlled Trial
Lafaurie GI, Zaror C, Díaz-Báez D, et al. International Journal of Dental Hygiene. 2018. View Study | PubMed
Evaluated HOCl mouthwashes at 0.025% and 0.05% concentrations, showing that human oral research has studied HOCl at concentrations higher than 100 ppm.
3. Hypochlorous Acid: A Review
Block MS, Rowan BG. Journal of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery. 2020. View Study | PubMed
Reviews HOCl chemistry, including the relationship between pH, hypochlorous acid and hypochlorite, and HOCl's antimicrobial activity.
0 comments