Hypochlorous Acid Spray Is A Great Post-Workout Hack, Says A Derm

Sometimes you just won't have time to wash your face right after a workout. Maybe you have to run some errands, or maybe your gym or workout class is a 15-minute walk from your home. Either way, you might feel panicked by the sweat sitting on your skin. (For what it's worth, sweat itself doesn't actually clog pores, but you don't want to leave it lingering on your face for too long.)

In a recent TikTok video, board-certified dermatologist Luke Maxfield, D.O., FAAD, sings the praises of using hypochlorous acid after a workout. "Finally: hypochlorous acid getting some love," he says.

According to the derm, it's the perfect post-workout hack for those who don't want to redo their entire skin care routine. 

"It's effective enough that we use this [as] postoperative wound healing for burns. It's so gentle that you can put it on a paper cut and it won't even sting," he explains. It's such a universal product, even for those with sensitive skin. 

Using this ingredient in the form of a spray is even more practical, as you'll be able to soak up the benefits without having to touch your face. Even if you wash your hands after your workout, you may collect bacteria on your hands from door handles, keys, water bottles, etc. A few great options include the Tower28 SOS Daily Facial Rescue Spray and the Hydrinity Hyacyn Active Purifying Mist.

Keep a bottle in your car or your gym bag so you can apply it ASAP after you finish your sweat session. Even if you're not acne-prone, a hypochlorous acid mist can keep your skin clean, hydrated, and calm. Plus, it just feels great to apply a cool mist after a hard workout.