The internet is going crazy for hypochlorous acid spray — here's how it can benefit your skin
To learn more about hypochlorous acid sprays — including what they are, what they do and which ones are worth your money — we turned to experts who have experience with them. Check out what they had to say below.
What is hypochlorous acid spray?
Long before it was used as a skin care product, hypochlorous acid spray was used in clinical settings thanks to its antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and tissue-safe properties, says Dr. Anetta Reszko, a board-certified dermatologist in New York. 'It also happens to be a naturally occurring molecule produced by the body's white blood cells as part of the immune response and plays a key role in defending against infection by targeting harmful bacteria, viruses, and other pathogens.'
More recently, hypochlorous acid spray has become a popular skin care product because its antibacterial, antiviral, and anti-inflammatory properties can help combat several skin issues, like acne, eczema, sunburns and more. 'It soothes reactive or inflamed skin, relieves itching, and supports healing, all while being gentle enough for daily use, says Reszko. 'And because it mimics a substance your body already produces, it's well-tolerated, non-drying, and won't lead to antibiotic resistance like some prescription treatments can.'
How I picked the best hypochlorous acid sprays
When shopping for a hypochlorous acid spray to use on your face, experts recommend prioritizing the following criteria:
Concentration: 'The potency of hypochlorous acid varies depending on its concentration,' says Reszko, who explains that higher concentrations will be more potent. It's important to note that it's not necessarily a good thing when using it on your face. Those with sensitive skin may want to look for lower concentrations. Regarding exact concentrations to look for, Dr. Jason Emer is a board-certified dermatologist in Beverly Hills and founder of Emer Skin, says you should opt for between 100 to 200 parts per million (PPM) to deliver antimicrobial benefits without irritating the skin.
pH balance: Along with concentration, you'll want to pay attention to the pH balance of the hypochlorous acid spray you use. 'A gentle pH level that ranges from 4 to 6 for daily use and helps maintain the skin's natural barrier,' says Emer.
Packaging: 'Hypochlorous acid is sensitive to light and air, which can degrade its effectiveness, so choosing a spray that comes in opaque or dark-colored bottles can maximize its potency,' says Reszko.
The best hypochlorous acid sprays of 2025
To come up with the list of best hypochlorous acid sprays, we looked for options that meet the criteria given by our experts and that have at least a 4-star average rating from hundreds of reviews.
Tower 28, which makes one of our favorite lip balms, has one of the most popular hypochlorous acid sprays on the market. The acid calms irritated skin, while the 4.5 pH balance helps to keep your skin barrier strong. This spray can be used morning and night and should be used in place of toner before moisturizing.
Briotech Topical Skin Spray
This spray can be used on the body, face or even eyelids and can help soothe eczema flare-ups or generally irritated skin. The formula is free of fragrances and preservatives, making it a good option for sensitive skin users. It has a 4.5-star average rating from 10,515 reviews on Amazon and comes in various sizes.
E11ement Hypochlorous Acid Spray
This hypochlorous acid spray has a 150 ppm and can either be spritzed on skin or applied to a cotton ball and then applied. Reviewers say it's helped them with irritation, dry eyes, tattoo healing and more.
'The spray is considered very gentle, pure with its .01% concentration, and widely recommended across dermatologic and ophthalmologic use cases (i.e., eyelid dermatitis and perioral dermatitis),' says Reszko. 'The product is safe near the eyes (ophthalmology-grade) and appropriate for sensitive skin.' One thing to note: At .68 ounces, it's the smallest bottle on our list.
This spray, which has a 4.7-star average rating from over 960 reviews on Amazon, has a .015% concentration and a 5.5 pH balance, so it shouldn't irritate sensitive skin. Also helpful: The formula is hypoallergenic and noncomedogenic to prevent breakouts from sprouting up.
Meet our experts
At NBC Select, we work with experts with specialized knowledge and authority based on relevant training and experience. We also ensure all expert advice and recommendations are made independently and without undisclosed financial conflicts of interest.
Why trust NBC Select?
Bethany Heitman is a contributor at NBC Select and a journalist who regularly covers topics like beauty, home and lifestyle.
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Daily Mail
4 days ago
- Daily Mail
Travel expert issues warning to Brits heading to Turkey for 'cosmetic vacations'
Hordes of Brits dash over to Turkey each year, though not all visit the popular holiday destination for the same reason. While some visit to enjoy the sun and sandy beaches, others opt for 'cosmetic vacations' and have medical procedures done while abroad. More than 400,000 people living in Britain sought foreign medical care in 2023, according to government figures. Reasons include the long wait times in the UK, as well as the high cost to go private. Turkey has become a hotspot for such procedures, with many heading there for dental work and other forms of cosmetic surgery. Areas including Antalya and Istanbul offer 'medical tourism packages' that promise patients airport transfers, hotel stays and transportation to appointments. Trends like Turkey teeth are 40–60 per cent cheaper compared to having the procedure done in the UK, but experts warn it could be too good to be true. The cheaper rates come with risks, cautioned Simon Hood, travel expert and executive director of John Mason International, which offers international removal services. He said: 'Turkey teeth procedures and other cosmetic work can be quite the risk. 'We've all seen the glossy videos on social media with TikTokers promoting practices during the summer, but you need to double-check the practice you're planning on attending is board-certified.' The expert explained how medical regulations differ between countries, and encouraged people to look for practices having recognition from international organisations. Mr Hood added: 'In Turkey, regulations vary slightly from the UK, but any practice or clinic can be recognised by international organisations like the Joint Commission International, or JCI. 'Having this recognition can help assure you that your deal is both safe and indeed a bargain.' The expert also recommended whether the surgeons have membership of the Turkish Society of Plastic Reconstructive and Aesthetic Surgeons, or TSPRAS for short. It isn't uncommon for procedures abroad to go wrong, recent numbers from the British Association of Aesthetic Plastic Surgeons found over 300 Brits were requiring corrective surgery. Mr Hood added how 'underground medical tourism' was prominent in the country. He urged people to research before heading abroad for surgical procedures. The expert said: 'Turkey is notorious for its underground medical tourism, with people flocking in hope of getting a quick and cheap deal. 'But it doesn't work like that; cheap cosmetic work could result in serious issues.'
Graziadaily
22-07-2025
- Graziadaily
This Hair Oil Is A Must For Shiny, Healthy Hair
I've been growing my hair for a long time. A very long time, in fact. But as someone unwilling to forgo my twice-yearly highlights there's only so much length I can achieve before it begins to snap. This leaves me feeling like I'm back at square one - albeit with a tell-tale smattering of scraggly ends. I've integrated so many hair beautifying into my routine, from bond builders and serums to masks and even hair fragrances. But hair oils? That's where I've always struggled. TikTok is constantly touting the benefits of hair oiling for strengthening strands, but as someone with a naturally oily scalp (if I want my hair to look it's best, I need to wash it every day), I've always avoided them. In the past, even the tiniest amount smoothed through freshly styled hair has been a disaster. Finishing oils didn't deliver a perfect finish. They literally finished my hair in a 'Whoops, looks like I'll have to wash it again,' type way. A few months ago, a new hair oil landed in the office. Admittedly, I only picked it up because the bottle was beautiful- a pretty, green-glazed glass that looked like it would be gorgeous addition to my dressing table. It claimed to be lightweight and high-shine- a combination I've been promised (and disappointed by) far too many times. Still, perhaps spurred on by those persuasive TikTokers, I decided to give this one a try. Excitingly? This is a hair oil I can actually get behind. Over the past couple of months, I've noticed my hair looking bouncier and glossier. There's been a noticeable reduction in frizz. And most importantly, I genuinely think it's helped my hair grow longer and stronger- without those dreaded straggly ends Image credit: Cameron Bensley/Styling: Julia Harvey The Aveda oil works to smooth, condition, and add radiant shine thanks to a cocktail of hair fortifying ingredients. Camelina oil ferment: Adds radiance with lightweight texture. Rich in omega 3, 6 and 9 fatty acids. Tsubaki seed oil: Conditions. Harvested in part from Jeju Islands, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and crafted through cold pressing. Daikon seed oil: Smooths. Responsibly sourced from cooperative farms in Willamette Valley, Oregon. 1. Aveda Miraculous Oil High Shine Hair Concentrate What Aveda says: 'A blend of traditions in every drop. Infused with Tsubaki seed oil, harvested in part from Jeju Island and daikon seed oil, responsibly sourced from cooperative farms in Willamette Valley, Oregon. This precious concentrate delivers 195% more shine, instantly and creates 2X smoother hair.' What we know: Fine to medium hair types can apply a small amount to ends of dry hair, while medium to thick hair types can work into mid-lengths and ends of dry hair. This will smooth frizz and add radiant shine. Rachael Martin beauty director says: 'It's also an absolute pleasure to use. The spa-like fragrance - a calming blend of lavender, ylang-ylang, and petitgrain- paired with the ritual of applying it, makes it feel like a proper (albeit speedy) moment of self-care. To be completely honest, I didn't notice dramatic results immediately, but after around two months, I did see results. My hair was growing with significantly less breakage, and my ends appeared far blunter, without the scraggly, uneven tips I'd become used to. And the shine? Oh the shine! Here was the kind of Kate Middleton-esque lustre I'd never seen before.' Pros Long lasting Brimming with hair beautifying ingredients Vegan Cruelty free Cons Glass bottle (although chic, you'll not want to drop it!) Begin by applying one of two drops to the palms of your hands. You can then rub hands together to ensure even distribution. Next, apply the oil through the mid-to-ends of damp hair using a gentle, raking motion before styling as usual. Fine to medium hair types can apply a small amount to ends of dry hair, while medium to thick hair types can work into mid-lengths and ends of dry hair. This will smooth frizz and add radiant shine. Rachael Martin, beauty director says: 'I've been testing this one for the past three months and have been meticulous with my application. Each day, after washing my hair, I've smoothed a small amount through the lengths and ends. Then, on freshly blow-dried hair, I've taken the tiniest amount- no more than half a drop- and worked it through the roots, lengths, and ends to seal everything in and ward off humidity-induced frizz. I've also been using it as a pre-wash treatment in the evenings, taking time to massage a generous amount into my scalp and roots before rinsing it out the following morning. And so far? I'm genuinely impressed. The texture strikes that rare balance of feeling nourishing yet lightweight-ideal if, like me, you're cautious about applying oils too liberally. My hair, particularly the highlighted sections, is prone to breakage, often resulting in shorter, frizzy layers that become especially unruly in damp or humid conditions. Fortunately, this oil has proved quite the remedy- my hair looks noticeably smoother, and those shorter layers appear more blended and controlled. It's also an absolute pleasure to use. The spa-like fragrance - a calming blend of lavender, ylang-ylang, and petitgrain- paired with the ritual of applying it, makes it feel like a proper (albeit speedy) moment of self-care. To be completely honest, I didn't notice dramatic results immediately, but after around two months, I did see some changes My hair was growing with significantly less breakage, and my ends appeared far blunter, without the scraggly, uneven tips I'd become used to. And the shine? Oh the shine! Here was the kind of Kate Middleton-esque lustre I'd never seen before.' A do-it-all hair oil perfect for those with grease prone hair. A little goes a long way for adding shine, strength and nourishment. Plus, if you're someone looking to grow your hair, then this could be just the ticket. Would recommend. Rachael Martin is Grazia's Beauty Director. Originally from Northern Ireland, she studied English Literature at Queen's University Belfast, before moving to London to pursue a career in magazine journalism Image credit: Cameron Bensley
Scottish Sun
10-07-2025
- Scottish Sun
I've lost 5 stone on Mounjaro but have a ‘painful', ‘burning' side effect no one talks about – it's driving me crazy
Plus find out the skin care essential Mounjaro users should be using NOW WEIGH! I've lost 5 stone on Mounjaro but have a 'painful', 'burning' side effect no one talks about – it's driving me crazy A WOMAN who dropped five stone using Mounjaro has warned other users of a 'painful' side effect that's making her life hell. Ann, who shares her weight loss journey on TikTok, opened up about her lesser-known struggle after taking the popular jab for 40 weeks. 2 A tiktoker has shared her rarely discussed Mounjaro side-effect 2 Ann has lost five stones on Mounjaro Credit: @beingann She says the treatment, which has helped thousands shed serious weight, has left her with extreme skin sensitivity that feels like 'burning' and 'sandpaper'. And despite trawling the internet for answers, she says there's little info on it and wants others to speak up if they're suffering too. In the video, she explained: 'I've been on Mounjaro for 40 weeks and lost about five stone. "But one thing I'm really struggling with is this skin sensitivity. It's a side effect that just isn't spoken about.' Anne described the sensation as 'painful and burning', adding that the affected area becomes so sensitive, it hurts just to touch. 'It feels like someone's taken sandpaper to my skin,' she said. She claims the pain, which is on the outside and back of her thigh, hip and knee, is extremely painful, driving her crazy. She added that it's so bad, she can't sleep properly because the discomfort keeps her up at night. While she initially thought it could be linked to her injection site, she recently switched from stomach to thigh and the pain appeared on the opposite side, ruling that out. I went on fat jabs but the hair loss was unbelievable so I quit - I'd rather be chubby with hair than skinny and bald The comment section lit up with others saying they'd experienced similar but, like Anne, couldn't find much official guidance. One fellow user said: 'Yes, I've had it too. It's not spoken about enough!' And Ann's not the only one raising the alarm. Other TikTokers have reported soreness, itching, and acne since starting Mounjaro, with many saying they feel 'hypersensitive' in the sun. In fact, one Mounjaro user recently warned followers to up their SPF game this summer as the drug can make your skin more prone to burning. That's why experts are urging anyone on GLP-1 meds like Mounjaro or Ozempic to step up their sun protection game. Skincare brand HydroPeptide has dropped a high-end range of SPFs packed with peptides and soothing ingredients to shield sensitive skin. Their Sun Slick SPF 50, which retails for £32, offers non-nano zinc oxide for gentle protection that doesn't absorb into the bloodstream which is ideal for irritated or inflamed skin. Or there's Solar Defense Body SPF 30, which is perfect for full-body coverage and packed with antioxidants to calm sun-exposed skin. If you're looking for a more budget-friendly option Superdrug now stocks Bioré Aqua Rich UV Invisible Face Mist SPF 50 which is a handbag-friendly spray you can mist over makeup. It's already earning rave reviews for being an on-the-go SPF essential. Meanwhile, skincare brand Image has launched the first ever GLP-1-friendly moisturiser designed to tackle so-called 'Ozempic face' to help fix the gaunt, sagging skin look. So if you're shedding the pounds but feeling the burn in more ways than one, you're not alone. Ann says she's speaking out in the hopes that others will share their experiences too and get the support they need. Because when it comes to Mounjaro, weight loss might be the headline but for some, the side effects are the real story. Meanwhile, experts are getting candid on a fat jab complication that might shock many. From eggy burps to stomach-churning nausea, there appears to be an endless list of side effects linked to Ozempic-like jabs.
