Hypochlorous acid spray is the new “must use” product in the skin-care world. Trendsetters are misting it on their bodies after workouts, spritzing it on their faces as part of their daily cleansing routine, and swearing by it on social media.
Lindsey Zubritsky, MD, a dermatologist in Pittsburgh (@dermguru), calls hypochlorous acid the “hygiene hack I refuse to gatekeep as a derm.” In one Tiktok video, she suggests spraying the solution on all your body parts after a workout, including armpits, face, and hands.
Influencers are also hailing hypochlorous acid as a cure-all for acne, eczema, rosacea, and razor bumps. Esthetician Kristen Leite (@skinbykristin) uses hypochlorous acid on all of her clients before microneedling or dermaplaning, claiming it kills bacteria on the face.
While many dermatologists stop short of calling hypochlorous acid a panacea, they are enthusiastic about this mild disinfectant that is becoming more widely available.
What Is Hypochlorous Acid?
Hypochlorous acid is a natural compound produced by your immune system, says Deirdre Hooper, MD, a dermatologist at Audubon Dermatology in New Orleans, Louisiana.
“It’s part of what’s called your innate immunity, the natural way you fight off bacteria and funguses and viruses,” says Dr. Hooper.
Hypochlorous acid is a gentle and versatile ingredient that has gained a lot of traction in recent years, says Danilo C. Del Campo, MD, a dermatologist at Chicago Skin Clinic in Illinois.
“In dermatology, it has been formulated into topical solutions for its antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and wound-healing properties,” says Dr. Del Campo.
“It can also help maintain skin hygiene and is well tolerated by most skin types. If you are looking for something simple and effective to add to your routine, this might be it,” he says.
Can Hypochlorous Acid Spray Help Acne, Eczema, and Rosacea?
Almost anyone dealing with skin inflammation can benefit from hypochlorous acid, says Hooper.
Hypochlorous Acid for Acne
Because hypochlorous acid calms inflammation and redness, it’s well-suited for acne-prone skin, says Del Campo.
“It’s something I often recommend to patients who want a gentle addition to their acne routine. It is not a magic bullet, but it is a helpful tool,” he says.
While there isn’t a lot of scientific data on how hypochlorous acid works for acne, “We do know that one of the causes of acne is bacteria and another is inflammation, and we also know that hypochlorous acid is antibacterial and anti-inflammatory,” Hooper says.
“I especially recommend it to my patients who have what the internet calls fungal acne, but in dermatology we call pityrosporum folliculitis. It’s these annoying itchy pimples that happen on the chest and back,” says Hooper.
“This kind of acne often happens to people who work out a lot, which is like this slap in the face — your body looks great, but your skin, not so much,” she says.
Is Hypochlorous Acid Good for Eczema?
“Kids and adults with eczema are often itchy and then they scratch, and then they can get secondary bacterial infections — hypochlorous acid will help prevent that. I find that people with eczema or anyone with sensitive and itchy skin becomes less itchy when they use this product,” Hooper says.
Del Campo says hypochlorous acid is especially helpful for people who are sensitive to topical steroids or prefer nonsteroidal options. “I have seen it help patients find relief when other treatments have been too harsh or irritating. It’s worth considering as part of a broader eczema management plan,” he says.
Is Hypochlorous Acid Good for Rosacea?
Hypochlorous acid may help calm skin and reduce redness, particularly in people with sensitive skin or conditions such as rosacea, says Del Campo.
It can also be used to treat perioral dermatitis, which is a rash that circles the mouth that can itch and burn, he says.
“It also supports skin recovery after cosmetic procedures. A lot of my patients appreciate that it feels soothing and does not sting, which can be a big win when your skin is already inflamed,” says Del Campo.
Are There Any Risks to Using Hypochlorous Acid?
Hypochlorous acid is generally safe for most people, including children and those with sensitive skin, says Del Campo.
“Rarely, someone may experience irritation or sensitivity, especially if the product contains added preservatives or stabilizers,” he says.
Hypochlorous acid sprays are typically compatible with other skin-care ingredients, but should be used with caution alongside harsh exfoliants or alcohol-based products which may increase dryness or sensitivity, says Del Campo.
How to Choose a Hypochlorous Acid Spray
When choosing a hypochlorous acid product, look for one that clearly states hypochlorous acid as the active ingredient and is designed for use on the skin. The product should come in a sealed, nonclear bottle to keep the formula stable over time, since light and air can break it down, says Del Campo.
“Choose a gentle, fragrance-free option, especially if you have sensitive or reactive skin. A pH level close to the skin’s natural range, ideally between 4.5 and 6.5, helps ensure better tolerance,” he says.
Del Campo recommends sticking with brands that are dermatologist-tested or used in clinical settings. “If you’re ever unsure, asking your dermatologist for a recommendation is always a safe bet,” he says.
Don’t assume a pricier spray is superior, says Hooper. “There’s not a way to make hypochlorous acid more expensive other than packaging and marketing, and so if you’re shopping for a product, more expensive is not necessarily better,” she says.
The Bottom Line: Hypochlorous Acid Can Help Lots of Skin Issues
“Hypochlorous acid is a good at-home treatment for everyone who is itchy or pimply or rashy. Anyone in one of those groups may see some benefits,” says Hooper.
Del Campo agrees: “It is one of those quiet multitaskers in dermatology. You have probably seen it pop up more in skin-care aisles, and for good reason.”
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