Viral Hypochlorous Acid Sprays Are Beloved By Dermatologists, Here is Why You Should Try One

By now, you’re sure to have heard of certain buzzy skin care ingredients like hyaluronic acid, the ultimate skin hydrator, or retinol, the anti-aging superhero. These are just two ultra-popular skin care ingredients that have been circulating social media the past few years and are recommended by countless dermatologists. However, there is another ingredient that has entered the skin care chat more recently: hypochlorous acid. While it’s not necessarily a new ingredient, it hasn’t been until recently that it’s been getting the much-overdue hype it deserves. Here, we tapped a top dermatologist on all your questions on hypochlorous acid, from what is hypochlorous acid, its benefits and the best hypochlorous acid spray options to try.

What is hypochlorous acid?

Before we dive into all the amazing benefits of hypochlorous acid, let’s start by explaining what exactly hypochlorous acid is. In short, hypochlorous acid is an impressive antimicrobial ingredient that not only is used in skin care, but is also used for wound healing and other antiseptic needs.

“Hypochlorous acid (HClO) is a naturally occurring antimicrobial agent produced by immune cells (neutrophils) to kill microorganisms and neutralize toxins released from them,” explains Pooja Rambhia, MD , board-certified dermatologist in New York City. “In dermatology, we utilize it in topical formulations primarily for its anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, as it effectively kills bacteria, viruses and fungi without irritating the skin. This makes it an excellent antiseptic for managing wounds, surgical sites and preparing the skin for dermatologic procedures.”

Hypochlorous acid has been used for years in skin care, but it hasn’t been until recently that it’s been talked about on social media. “Many influencers and skincare enthusiasts highlight its benefits for reducing inflammation, promoting healing and maintaining clear skin,” says Dr. Rambhia. “This increased visibility has led to a surge in interest as consumers seek out products containing this potent yet gentle ingredient.”

Hypochlorous acid for skin benefits

The benefits of hypochlorous acid truly seem endless, but what it’s mainly known for is its skin-clearing superpowers. If you suffer from breakouts or menopausal acne , hypochlorous could be a game changer for your skin. But that’s not the only trick the ingredient has up its sleeve — read on for more about what hypochlorous acid does for skin.

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It calms skin

As mentioned, hypochlorous acid is a great anti-inflammatory and can prevent and help clear up breakouts. However, it can also help with inflammatory skin conditions such as eczema, rosacea or others that leave skin red and irritated.

It kills bacteria and heals wounds

Also as previously mentioned, hypochlorous acid is an amazing antibacterial ingredient. It’s great at killing any bacteria your skin may attract, which can come from environmental factors or even just touching your face with your hands. Aside from bacteria on your face, it can help with the killing of bacteria in wounds and viruses. “(It) effectively eliminates a wide range of bacteria, viruses and fungi, aiding in the prevention and treatment of infections,” affirms Dr. Rambhia.

It’s gentle and non-toxic

Further, hypochlorous acid is considered safe for sensitive skin. Many who suffer from acne have sensitive skin, and sometimes the typical acne-fighting ingredients can be too harsh. With hypochlorous acid’s anti-inflammatory properties, skin will feel soothed and calm while also fighting off bacteria that can cause acne.

“(Hypochlorous acid is) non-irritating and suitable for sensitive or compromised skin barriers, and is safe for use across all skin types, including delicate areas and in pediatric or elderly patients,” says Dr. Rambhia.

It supports skin’s microbiome

Sometimes, certain ingredients can disrupt our skin barrier and microbiome (the invisible layer of bacteria that lives on skin’s surface), which can lead to a wide variety of problems for our skin. However, hypochlorous acid does just the opposite, actually supporting the skin microbiome. “(It helps) maintain a healthy skin microbiome by controlling harmful pathogens while being gentle on beneficial microorganisms,” explains Dr. Rambhia.

It’s beneficial for mature skin

For women over 50, it’s important to use gentle ingredients on our skin that supports barrier repair. “Hypochlorous acid is especially beneficial for mature skin because it effectively reduces inflammation and promotes healing, while being gentle enough not to irritate delicate, aging skin,” encourages Dr. Rambhia. “Its antimicrobial properties help keep the skin clean and balanced, supporting the skin's natural barrier and enhancing its ability to repair itself, which is crucial as the skin's regenerative capacity slows with age. This makes hypochlorous acid an excellent choice for maintaining healthy, resilient skin in older adults.”

How to use hypochlorous acid

Now that you know just what hypochlorous acid does for skin, you’re probably ready to try it for yourself!

Hypochlorous acid typically comes in the form of a spray. While hypochlorous acid spray is gentle enough to spritz on multiple times throughout the day (i.e. after walking in a crowded area, touching public germ hotspots, after working out, etc.), Dr. Rambhia suggests swapping out your toner for the spray.

“I often recommend it as an alternative to traditional toners, which may contain irritating fragrances, be costly and lack active ingredients,” says Dr. Rambhia. “ After cleansing , I suggest patients use a hypochlorous acid spray in lieu of their ‘toning’ step. This helps to eliminate microbes and provides anti-inflammatory effects. Once the solution has dried, you should apply a moisturizer.”

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The best hypochlorous acid sprays

Keep scrolling to see Dr. Rambhia’s and our top picks for the best hypochlorous acid sprays to try..

Tower28 Beauty SOS Daily Rescue Facial Spray

This hypochlorous acid spray, Tower28 Beauty SOS Daily Rescue Facial Spray , has become wildly popular on Tiktok, making it a viral fan-favorite among not just influencers and users, but dermatologists too. It made Dr. Rambia’s list, and she says, “This is fragrance-free and alcohol-free; perfect for those with sensitive skin.”

Prequel Universal Skin Solution Dermal Spray

Made with a nourishing mineral concentrate, cleansing electrolyzed water and, of course, hypochlorous acid, it’s no wonder Prequel Universal Skin Solution Dermal Spray made Dr. Rambhia’s list. She says it’s another great fragrance-free option, but at a more affordable price than the pick above.

SkinSmart Facial Cleanser

This is another hypochlorous acid spray — SkinSmart Facial Cleanser — that has gone TikTok viral, and is considered a dupe for the Tower28 spray. It’s fragrance-free, and “can be used as a facial spray or cleanser!” says Dr. Rambhia, killing two birds with one stone in your skincare routine.

Hydrinity Hyacyn Active Purifying Mist

For a splurge buy, one of our personal favorites is Hydrinity Hyacyn Active Purifying Mist . Although a bit pricey, we think it’s worth it. It feels so refreshing when misted on skin and works magic when it comes to clearing up breakouts and keeping skin free of bacteria.

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