How Hypochlorous Acid Became a Skincare Sensation

Perhaps you’ve seen it featured in your favorite beauty publications or caught a few glimpses of a familiar red spray bottle (hello, Tower 28) while scrolling through TikTok. With body skincare on the rise in 2024, it is no wonder a product like hypochlorous acid spray has taken the beauty world by storm. Let’s jump into a breakdown of hypochlorous acid and reflect on its impact on the skincare industry.

What is Hypochlorous Acid?
Already present in the body as an effective protective mechanism against infections and bacteria, hypochlorous acid plays a crucial role in the immune response by neutralizing pathogens. In the past, chemists discovered a way to turn hypochlorous acid into a basic saline mixture using electrolysis. This enabled its production in greater quantities with extended shelf life, meaning it could then be brought to the skincare market with wide-reaching accessibility.

Hypochlorous acid is gentle on skin and has many benefits, including eliminating bacteria responsible for clogged pores and acne, accelerating healing and tissue repair, and reducing inflammation. It is also suitable to soothe conditions like eczema and psoriasis (Cleveland Clinic, 2021).

How Do You Use Hypochlorous Acid? 
Most commonly used as a light mist in spray form, hypochlorous acid can act as a light cleanser (although it does not replace an actual cleanser) to freshen up your face throughout the day. It is most effective when used on sweaty skin after a workout to help eliminate bacteria all over the body (bye-bye, bacne!).

The spray can also be incorporated into your skincare routine. Give your face a spritz after cleansing and before using other active ingredients for a rejuvenating feeling (Tower 28 Beauty, 2022).

Who Can Benefit from Hypochlorous Acid?
Due to its gentle properties, most people may be able to use hypochlorous acid. It is safe for those with both acne-prone and sensitive skin to use (just look for formulas without added fragrance) and may even treat conditions like eczema, dry skin, or dry scalp. Always exercise caution when trying a new product for the first time, as allergic reactions (though rare) can occur. Start by patch-testing a small amount on your skin before regular use. 

If you do have sensitive skin, avoid hypochlorous acid products that are formulated with drying ingredients like alcohol or other common irritants.

Which Hypochlorous Acid Product is Right for You? 
Whether you’re looking to target specific skin concerns or are keen on choosing products that align with your values, there is an option for you.

For a formula that prioritizes clean and non-toxic ingredients and is dermatologist-approved, look no further than the previously mentioned and oh-so-popular Tower28 SOS Rescue Spray. Made without sulfates, parabens, and phthalates, it offers a gentle yet effective solution for soothing reactive skin.

Struggling with uneven skin tone or rosacea? Prequel’s Universal Skin Solution spray may be the right fit. Certified by the National Rosacea Society, it is intentionally made to prevent redness with added minerals for a calming effect.

Finally, for a boost of hydration, Clearstem’s Skinspray All Day includes magnesium PCA which contributes to overall skin balance and peptides to smooth out your complexion.

Final Thoughts
Incorporating hypochlorous acid into your daily skincare regimen can provide significant benefits, whether you’re dealing with acne, eczema, or simply seeking a gentle and non-toxic addition to your routine. This powerful ingredient helps fight off bacteria and soothe the skin, making it ideal for post-workout refreshment and achieving a healthier complexion. With its versatility and effectiveness, hypochlorous acid is a valuable asset for maintaining skin health and balance.

Always consult your dermatologist before introducing a new product into your skincare regimen. 

References:
Cleveland Clinic. (2021, August 3). Hypochlorous acid and skin care: What you need to know. Cleveland Clinic. https://health.clevelandclinic.org/hypochlorous-acid-skin-care

Tower 28 Beauty. (2022, March 2). Hypochlorous acid in skincare: A closer look. Tower 28 Beauty. https://www.tower28beauty.com/blogs/sensitive-content/hypochlorous-acid-in-skincare

This post is not sponsored; all expressed opinions are my own.