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If you’ve ever struggled with acne, you’ll know how frustrating it can be to find a treatment that actually works without upsetting your skin in the process. Many of the most common options, like retinoids or benzoyl peroxide, can leave your skin dry, irritated, and sometimes even worse before it gets better. That’s why there’s growing interest in hypochlorous acid (and its close relative, sodium hypochlorite) sprays as a gentler but still effective alternative for managing mild to moderate acne.

What the Research Says

Recent clinical research has started to explore how hypochlorous-based sprays work for acne, and the results are encouraging. A double-blind, randomized controlled trial found that applying a 0.005% sodium hypochlorite solution three times a day for one month significantly reduced the number of papules and pustules in people with mild to moderate acne. What’s interesting is that the results were consistent across both men and women, and the treatment appeared effective for both hormonal and non-hormonal acne types.

In laboratory studies, hypochlorous acid has shown impressive antimicrobial effects against Cutibacterium acnes(formerly known as Propionibacterium acnes), the main bacteria involved in acne development. Even at low concentrations, hypochlorous acid kills acne-causing bacteria rapidly and effectively, showing results comparable to or better than standard antiseptics. These findings support its potential as a gentle but scientifically valid option for acne-prone skin.

Tolerability and Safety

One of the biggest advantages of hypochlorous-based sprays is how well they’re tolerated. In the clinical studies published so far, most participants reported minimal irritation. Some experienced mild itching or dryness, but overall, the side effects were much less severe than what you’d expect from stronger prescription treatments.

In contrast, many traditional acne products work well but can be difficult to tolerate long term. Retinoids, for example, often cause peeling and redness, while benzoyl peroxide can lead to dryness and stinging. Antibiotic creams or tablets may help in the short term but come with the added concern of bacterial resistance. Hypochlorous acid avoids all of these issues, making it a particularly appealing choice for those with sensitive or reactive skin.

It’s worth noting that acne can sometimes return once treatment stops, regardless of which therapy you use. But overall, hypochlorous sprays appear to offer a favourable balance between effectiveness and comfort, especially for people who prefer a simpler, low-risk skincare routine.

How They Compare to Traditional Treatments

Traditional acne treatments remain the first-line recommendations in most dermatology guidelines. Topical retinoids, benzoyl peroxide, and antibiotics are often prescribed in combination to target multiple causes of acne at once. While these are effective, they also tend to come with side effects that can make long-term adherence difficult.

Hypochlorous acid sprays are not yet included in standard acne treatment guidelines, but early studies suggest they could serve as a useful alternative or complementary option. They are easy to use, affordable, and accessible without a prescription. Their mechanism of action also differs from conventional therapies, providing strong antibacterial and anti-inflammatory effects without damaging the skin barrier. This makes them particularly interesting for people who want to support skin healing while reducing inflammation and redness.

Because hypochlorous acid is naturally produced by the body’s immune system as part of its defence against pathogens, it’s also viewed as a biologically compatible ingredient. This natural compatibility may explain why it causes so little irritation while still being effective against acne-causing bacteria.

The Takeaway

Early evidence suggests that hypochlorous and hypochlorite sprays could be a promising addition to the acne treatment toolkit. They are gentle, affordable, and backed by growing scientific research showing both antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory effects. While larger and longer-term studies are still needed to confirm their full potential, they offer an exciting new approach for those who want effective acne management without the harsh side effects of stronger topical or oral treatments.

If you’re considering adding a hypochlorous spray to your skincare routine, it’s a good idea to check with your dermatologist or skin specialist first to make sure it’s suitable for your skin type and to discuss how it might fit alongside any other treatments you’re using.

For more evidence-based skincare and lifestyle advice, follow me on Instagram @sarahcurranfitpro.