Hypochlorous Acid for Skin: Uses, Benefits, and Side Effects

In the science world, hypochlorous acid is replicated by combining salt, water, and vinegar through electrolysis. The result is a formula that replicates your skin’s natural ability to fight bacteria and heal. When that formula is concentrated correctly and added to your favorite skin and hair-care products, you can give your face and scalp a boost of healing energy anytime you need it.

In higher concentrations, hypochlorous acid can be found in common cleaners. It’s used to disinfect surfaces, sanitize medical equipment, “and has even been documented to kill coronavirus,” says King.

What are the benefits of using hypochlorous acid?

“Hypochlorous acid is a powerful killer of bacteria, viruses, and even fungus,” says Dr.DeRosa. Its antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties make it a great treatment for a variety of skin challenges, from cystic acne to sunburns.

“Hypochlorous acid is a natural antibacterial byproduct of our white blood cells—so it has anti-viral and -bacterial qualities,” says board-certified dermatologist Mona Gohara, MD. She says it can prevent future acne breakouts and can also help reduce signs of past breakouts.

But it gets better. Hypochlorous acid combats redness and inflammation associated with skin conditions like eczema and psoriasis. It calms puffy or angry skin and gently cleanses to prevent future flare-ups. “It’s also really good to help reduce itching,” says Dr. DeRosa, so you won’t be tempted to scratch your skin and spread the infection.

Hypochlorous acid is basically the duct tape of skin care—there’s almost nothing it can’t fix. It can even help heal a wicked sunburn. Using a hypochlorous acid spray, like Tower 28’s SOS Daily Rescue Facial Spray, on your face or scalp can help soothe and repair scorched skin on the spot.

Because hypochlorous acid already lives in your body, products formulated with HOCl are safe for everyday use. You won’t develop a resistance to it as you might with a prescription antibiotic, and it won’t dry out your skin the way alcohol or benzoyl peroxide would. Some sprays, like S’eau Prima’s Foundational Face Mist, can actually help hydrate your skin. This spray contains hypochlorous acid and Bora Bora sea salt. “The sea salt absorbs excess oils and impurities while softening and hydrating the skin,” Dr. DeRosa says.

Should I bring hypochlorous acid sprays to the gym?

With all of the above benefits, it makes sense that TikTok creators are now adding hypochlorous acid sprays to their gym bags. “It can help ward off [germs] at the gym that creep onto the skin from communal surfaces,” Dr. Gohara says. She does, however, say that if you have the option, use a surface-sanitizing wipe for your equipment, as they are typically alcohol-based and include other chemicals for deep cleansing.