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Theres a new gym bag essential sweepingTikToknation.
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Creators are now packing spray bottles of hypochlorous acid among their usual Hydroflasks, deodorants, and extra towels.
And what even is hypochlorous acid?
As in 100-times-more-powerful-than-bleach strong,Jaimie DeRosa, MD, a double-certified plastic surgeon, tellsAllure.
“Skin-care brands will have diluted the concentration and done safety testing to ensure consumer safety.”
When diluted correctly, hypochlorous acid is harsh on harmful bacteria, but gentle on skineven sensitive skin.
It basically disinfects your face, reducing inflammation and speeding up your skins natural healing processes.
We spoke to a few skin experts to get the scoop on hypochlorous acid and how to use it.
Here’s everything you gotta know.
What is hypochlorous acid?
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.
In higher concentrations, hypochlorous acid can be found in common cleaners.
What are the benefits of using hypochlorous acid?
“Hypochlorous acid is a powerful killer of bacteria, viruses, and even fungus,” says Dr.DeRosa.
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.
Hypochlorous acid is basically the duct tape of skin carethere’s almost nothing it can’t fix.
It can even help heal a wickedsunburn.
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.
Hypochlorous acne can also help prevent body acne and odor.
So, is it absolutely essential that you keep a bottle with you during your workouts?
Nobut it can certainly help.
Its a pretty benign extra layer of defense, Dr. Gohara says.
Her go-to formula is Magic Molecule The Solution.
Are there any risks?
“By itself, this material can cause chemical burns,” says King.
“The concentration differs for different applications.
In skin care, it has to be diluted to 100 parts per million.”
“Buy products that are already diluted and include directions for use,” she says.
How do you use hypochlorous acid?
The most common way to add hypochlorous acid to your routine is via a fine-mist spray.
Dr. Gohara recommends cleansing your face before gently spritzing one across your entire face.
Then, follow it with a barrier-repair cream, she says.
Skin-care products containing hypochlorous acid are totally safe for everyday use.
Who should use hypochlorous acid?
Do you have skin?
If so, you’ll probably benefit from adding some hypochlorous acid to yourskin-care routine.
Even those with extremely sensitive skin don’t have to think twice about using products with hypochlorous acid.
Thats where skin-care products containing hypochlorous acid come in.
Read more about skin-care ingredients:
Now, watch Sydney Sweeney’s 10-minute beauty routine:
