Why Fresh Activation Matters
Each Activation Packet™ is formulated to create Hypochlorous Acid (HOCl) at its intended concentration (ppm) and pH when mixed with purified or distilled water. Water quality plays a critical role during mixing, influencing the starting concentration and pH of the solution — which is why purified or distilled water is recommended.
HOCl degrades with exposure to UV light, heat, and air. By activating it yourself, you control when it’s made and how it’s stored. Learn why freshness matters.
Fresh activation helps ensure:
- Intended concentration for the task
- pH balanced for targeted use
- Reliable antimicrobial performance
When mixed and stored in opaque bottles away from heat and direct sunlight, the solution is expected to maintain strength close to its published concentration for at least 45 days. Increased exppsure to UV light, heat, and air reduces concentration (ppm) and changes pH, lowering the antimicrobial effectiveness of the solution. This is why we recommend refreshing your solution regularly for consistent performance.
Learn more about how long hypochlorous acid lasts after mixing.
When It’s Wet, It’s Working™
Hypochlorous Acid (HOCl) gets to work on contact. Spray generously and let it air dry — there’s no need to wipe it away. As long as the surface remains visibly wet, the solution is actively interacting with germs and odor-causing bacteria.
If you can’t see it working, that’s normal — hypochlorous acid works invisibly while the surface remains wet. Learn how to tell if hypochlorous acid is working.
It leaves no residue and is non-toxic, making it safe for everyday use around kids and pets.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use hypochlorous acid as a full-body spray or deodorant? +
Yes — River Refresh Hypochlorous Acid Body Spray can be used on underarms, feet, or anywhere odor-causing bacteria form. It neutralizes existing odors but isn’t an antiperspirant, so it doesn’t prevent sweating.
For best results, wipe away sweat before spraying to let the solution contact skin directly. It helps eliminates odor at the source without perfume, aluminum, or harsh chemicals, and it’s gentle enough for everyday all-over use.
If you’re still sweating or particularly odiferous, simply repeat as needed — the spray is safe for frequent application.
How does River Refresh hypochlorous acid hand cleanser compare to alcohol-based sanitizers? +
River Refresh Hypochlorous Acid (HOCl) Hand Cleanser & Body Spray kills 99.9% of germs as effectively as alcohol sanitizers — but without dryness, irritation, or harsh fumes.
Key differences:
- Gentle on skin: HOCl is water-based and pH-balanced, supporting your skin's natural moisture barrier instead of stripping it like alcohol does
- No harsh smell: Unlike alcohol sanitizers, HOCl has no strong odor
- Safe for sensitive skin: Won't cause stinging, cracking, or irritation even with frequent use
- Keeps hands hydrated: Leaves skin soft and healthy, not dry and damaged
When to use each:
- Use HOCl for frequent sanitizing throughout the day when you want germ protection without skin damage
- Alcohol sanitizers work when water isn't available, but come with the trade-off of dry, irritated skin
Is hypochlorous acid (HOCl) safe for intimate areas? +
Yes — hypochlorous acid (HOCl) is gentle and safe for use on intimate skin, including the vaginal and groin area, bum, and baby bottoms.
It’s naturally pH-balanced (around 5.5) — close to the body’s own acidity — and completely free of alcohol, fragrance, and harsh preservatives.
HOCl soothes irritation from heat, moisture, or friction and helps reduce redness or bumps after shaving or waxing. It also neutralizes odor-causing bacteria without masking scent or disrupting the body’s natural microbiome.
Fresh Tips:
- Spray directly on clean, external skin and let it air-dry.
- Use daily or whenever skin feels irritated, warm, or needs a refresh.
- Safe for adults and babies — gentle enough for diaper care and postpartum hygiene.
Disclaimer: HOCl supports healthy skin and odor control but isn’t intended for internal use or to replace medical care. If irritation or infection persists, consult your healthcare provider.
What are the benefits of using hypochlorous acid (HOCl) as a hand sanitizer? +
Hypochlorous acid (HOCl) kills 99.9% of germs, bacteria, and viruses within seconds — all without alcohol, harsh chemicals, or sticky residue. It’s a gentle, non-toxic alternative for clean hands that stay soft and hydrated instead of dry or irritated.
Unlike alcohol-based sanitizers that strip moisture and sting cuts, HOCl disinfects through oxidation (not dehydration) — so it kills pathogens effectively while keeping your skin barrier healthy.
Everyday uses:
- Keep a bottle in your purse, car, or kids’ backpack for clean hands anywhere.
- Perfect for sensitive skin or those who can’t tolerate alcohol sanitizers.
- Safe to use around pets, food, and personal items.
Fresh Tip: Use after washing or whenever soap and water aren’t available — it sanitizes, hydrates lightly, and leaves zero residue.
More questions? Explore our complete FAQ.
View Complete FAQ →The River Refresh has been very helpful this week as my husband just had Cataract surgery and we have to put eye drops in his eye 4 times a day and using the River Refresh to disinfect my hands has been Helpful.
My new go-to after the gym - it freshens me up and any lingering odors from sweating after the hot shower I can now manage.
Replaced my alcohol hand sanitizer with this - it works better, and my hands are no longer cracking. And I appreciate it's scent-free! I have the smaller bottles everywhere!
Love to hear this! Your hands are appreciating the gentle refreshed love. Spread the word because cold season is upon us and keeping those hands clean and healthy is so important! Can't do a high-five with clean hands, but a virtual elbow bump for sure!