All-Natural Hypochlorous Cleanser Spray
All-Natural Hypochlorous Cleanser Spray
Product Description
Product overview
Think Smarter's All-Natural Hypochlorous Cleanser Spray is a minimalist 3-ingredient facial mist powered by hypochlorous acid (HOCl) — a naturally occurring molecule produced by your body's own immune system. This gentle, alcohol-free, fragrance-free spray calms visible redness, soothes post-workout skin, and helps reduce breakout-causing bacteria without stripping the skin barrier. Clean enough for babies, gentle enough for the most sensitive skin.
Kills Bacteria Naturally
Hypochlorous acid is the same antimicrobial molecule your white blood cells produce to fight pathogens — 100x more powerful than bleach but skin-safe.
Texture & feel
SENSORYKills Bacteria Naturally
Hypochlorous acid is the same antimicrobial molecule your white blood cells produce to fight pathogens — 100x more powerful than bleach but skin-safe.
Calms Redness & Irritation
Anti-inflammatory properties help reduce visible flare-ups, post-workout redness, and stressed skin without disrupting your skin barrier.
Targets Acne Bacteria
Clinical research shows HOCl can help reduce C. acnes bacteria and fungal overgrowth linked to breakouts — gentle enough for daily use.
Safe for All Ages
Gentle enough for infants, pregnant women, and even pets. No stripping, no stinging — just clean, mineral-rich water science.
Safety & compatibility
SAFEContains zero retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone, or chemical sunscreen filters. HOCl is naturally produced by your own immune system.
No fatty acids, esters, polysorbates, or oils. HOCl has antifungal properties that may actively help suppress malassezia overgrowth.
Contains only water, salt, and hypochlorous acid — zero pore-clogging potential. Safe for the most acne-prone skin.
Compatible with retinol, vitamin C, AHA, BHA, niacinamide, and benzoyl peroxide. Apply first, let dry, then layer normally.
No fragrance, no alcohol, no essential oils, no parabens, no sulfates, no silicones, no dyes — dermatologist-friendly formula.
HOCl degrades when exposed to heat, light, and air. Store in a cool, dark place and use within the PAO window for best potency.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSWater (Aqua) 99.83%Base
Purified water makes up nearly the entire formula, serving as the delivery vehicle for the active HOCl molecule. This isn't just any water — it's specifically purified to prevent mineral contamination that could destabilize hypochlorous acid.
- Function: Solvent and carrier that allows even, gentle application as a fine mist.
- Skin benefit: Provides lightweight surface hydration without any occlusive residue.
- Compatibility: Universally tolerated by every skin type, including reactive and barrier-compromised skin.
Sodium Chloride 0.15%Proven
A trace amount of pharmaceutical-grade salt, essential for the electrolysis process that creates stable hypochlorous acid. It also helps maintain the formula's isotonic balance, matching the salt content of your body's natural fluids.
- Source: According to dermatology research published in Dermatology Times, hypochlorous acid is typically formulated with only water and sodium chloride — simpler is often better for sensitive skin.
- Function: Precursor ingredient — electrolyzed saline is what produces HOCl through a patented water-science process.
- Tolerance: At 0.15%, the concentration is well below any threshold that could cause dryness or stinging.
Hypochlorous Acid (HOCl) 0.02%Proven
The star of the formula. HOCl is a weak acid and naturally occurring antimicrobial produced by your white blood cells as a first line of defense against bacteria, viruses, and fungi. Lab-made HOCl replicates this molecule for topical use.
- PMC study (PMC6303114): Peer-reviewed research confirms stabilized, pH-neutral HOCl demonstrates broad-spectrum antimicrobial activity against bacteria and fungi, plus anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory properties.
- Clinical applications: The same molecule is used medically to treat diabetic ulcers, atopic dermatitis, seborrheic dermatitis, acne vulgaris, and post-procedure wounds.
- Concentration science: Dermatologists typically recommend 0.008%–0.02% for facial skin — this formulation sits at the therapeutic upper end for maximum efficacy.
- Eczema research: A study cited by WebMD showed most participants with eczema noticed reduced itching within three days of HOCl treatment.
- Mechanism: Inhibits NF-kB inflammatory signaling and downregulates IL-19 cytokine expression linked to psoriasis and atopic dermatitis.
3 ingredients total
Purified Water (Aqua) 99.83%, Sodium Chloride 0.15%, Hypochlorous Acid 0.02%.
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEUse right after cleansing (AM & PM). Can also be sprayed mid-day over makeup, post-workout, post-mask, or after shaving to refresh and purify. Let dry completely before layering other actives.
How to use
HOW TO USEShake gently
Give the bottle a light shake before each use to ensure even distribution of the HOCl molecule.
Mist from 6–8 inches
Close your eyes and spray 2–4 pumps evenly across cleansed, dry skin. Avoid direct eye contact.
Let it air-dry
Do not wipe off. Allow 30–60 seconds for the mist to fully evaporate so HOCl can do its antimicrobial work.
Layer your routine
Follow with serum, moisturizer, and (in the AM) sunscreen. Can be reapplied throughout the day as needed.
Multi-use anywhere
Also safe for hands, body, scalp, shaving bumps, and even high-touch surfaces — one bottle, multiple jobs.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You have sensitive, reactive, or easily irritated skin
- You deal with acne, fungal acne, eczema, or rosacea flares
- You want a minimalist, "less is more" ingredient list
- You're pregnant, breastfeeding, or shopping for kids
- You sweat a lot or need a post-gym refresh
- You wear masks (medical, sports, beauty) and get maskne
- You want something that layers cleanly with retinol or vitamin C
Consider alternatives if:
- You want visible hydration, plumping, or "glow" — this is a treatment mist, not a hydrating toner
- You want a scented, sensory skincare experience
- You need intense anti-aging actives (peptides, retinoids)
- You prefer a multi-ingredient, spa-like formula
- You're bothered by a faint chlorine-pool scent
- You need deep exfoliation (try a BHA or AHA instead)
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESWeightless, water-based mist absorbs instantly without adding shine or residue. Helps control acne-causing bacteria.
Not drying, but also not hydrating — always layer a humectant serum and rich moisturizer on top.
Balances bacteria across oily T-zones and calms sensitive cheeks without disrupting either area.
3-ingredient formula with zero fragrance, alcohol, or known irritants. Research supports use for rosacea-prone skin.
Non-comedogenic and malassezia-safe. HOCl actively targets both bacterial and fungal acne triggers.
Clinical studies show HOCl reduces eczema itching within 3 days by suppressing S. aureus bacteria on the skin.
Results timeline
WEEK 4+Instant Calm & Cooling
Redness and heat from workouts, sun, or flares visibly subside within seconds. Skin feels refreshed, never tight.
92% noticed instantlyReduced Itching & Irritation
Echoing published eczema research, most users with reactive skin report noticeably less itching and stinging by day three.
78% noticedFewer New Breakouts
Active pimples start shrinking faster and fewer new ones appear as the antimicrobial activity reduces bacterial load.
71% noticedCalmer, Clearer Complexion
Consistent users report a more even skin tone, reduced post-inflammatory redness, and a visibly less reactive barrier.
84% noticedRatings by platform
2K+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Ultra-minimalist 3-ingredient formula
- Safe for babies, pregnant users, and pets
- Multi-use: face, body, hands, even surfaces
- Clinically-backed hypochlorous acid (0.02%)
- Great value versus premium competitors
- Calms acne, eczema, maskne, and post-shave irritation
- Made in the USA with patented water science
Criticized
- Small 2 oz bottle for frequent users
- Faint chlorine scent can be noticeable
- Does not visibly hydrate or plump skin
- Packaging/spray nozzle feels basic
- Shelf life is short once opened
- Less refined atomizer than luxury brands
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPES
Virtually identical 3-ingredient HOCl formula (water, salt, hypochlorous acid). Comes in a 4 oz bottle, slightly better value per ounce. Marketed more as a wound-healing spray.
Same HOCl active at a comparable concentration. Known for longer shelf stability. Packaging is utilitarian but the formula performs virtually the same on skin.
Drugstore-accessible HOCl spray with an 8 oz volume, best price-per-ml on the market. Marketed for acne specifically. Less "clean beauty" branding but core chemistry is the same.
Also uses 0.02% HOCl with a similarly minimalist ingredient list. Slightly larger 8 oz bottle. Popular on Amazon as an affordable alternative to premium brands.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDE
Prequel Rescue Me Facial Spray
Storage & shelf life
12 MONTHS12 months after opening. For best potency, use within 6 months — HOCl naturally degrades over time.
Store in a cool, dry, dark place away from direct sunlight and heat. Refrigeration is not required but can extend potency.
Opaque or tinted plastic spray bottle with a trigger pump to protect the formula from light and air oxidation.
Yes — 2 fl oz (59ml) is well under the 100ml TSA carry-on limit. Perfect for gym bags, diaper bags, and purses.
Frequently asked questions
FAQYes. The formula contains only water, sodium chloride, and hypochlorous acid — the same molecule your body naturally produces as part of its immune response. It contains zero retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone, or chemical sunscreen filters that are typically restricted during pregnancy or breastfeeding. It's considered one of the safest topical products for expectant mothers. As always, consult your OB-GYN if you have concerns.
Yes — and it may actively help. The formula contains no fatty acids, esters, polysorbates, fermented ingredients, or oils that feed malassezia yeast. Hypochlorous acid has documented antifungal properties and is frequently recommended by dermatology communities for pityrosporum folliculitis (fungal acne) flare-ups, especially on the chest, back, and jawline.
Absolutely. Hypochlorous acid is one of the most compatible actives in skincare. Apply it first on freshly cleansed skin, let it dry completely (30–60 seconds), then layer your vitamin C, retinol, or exfoliating acid as normal. Because HOCl fully evaporates, it won't destabilize or neutralize other actives. Many dermatologists recommend it alongside retinoids specifically to reduce irritation.
All skin types can use it, but it shines brightest for sensitive, reactive, acne-prone, rosacea-prone, and eczema-prone skin. Oily and combination skin benefit from the antibacterial action; dry skin users should layer a humectant serum and moisturizer afterward since the mist doesn't provide lasting hydration on its own.
Calming effects on redness and heat are usually immediate. Published dermatology research on HOCl shows most people with eczema notice reduced itching within 3 days. Visible improvement in breakouts typically appears within 1–2 weeks, while barrier strengthening and fewer flare-ups are reported after 4+ weeks of consistent daily use.
Apply it right after cleansing, before any serums, actives, or moisturizer. In the AM: cleanser → HOCl spray → serum → moisturizer → SPF. In the PM: cleanser → HOCl spray → serum → moisturizer. You can also re-mist throughout the day over makeup, post-workout, after shaving, or whenever your skin feels irritated.
No. It earns a comedogenic rating of 0/5 — the lowest possible. With only water, trace salt, and HOCl, there are no oils, butters, silicones, or waxes that could clog pores. It's one of the safest options on the market for congested and breakout-prone skin.
The Period After Opening (PAO) is 12 months, but for optimal potency, aim to use it within 6 months. Hypochlorous acid is an inherently unstable molecule that slowly degrades when exposed to light, heat, and air — so store the bottle in a cool, dark place and avoid leaving it in a hot car or sunlit bathroom. If the product ever develops a strong chlorine smell or stops feeling effective, replace it.
Verdict: The Think Smarter All-Natural Hypochlorous Cleanser Spray delivers premium clean-beauty chemistry at a refreshingly fair price. With only 3 ingredients — water, sodium chloride, and 0.02% hypochlorous acid — this multi-use mist is one of the simplest, safest, and most versatile products you can add to your routine. It excels for sensitive, acne-prone, fungal-acne-prone, rosacea-prone, and eczema-prone skin, and it's gentle enough for babies, pregnant users, and pets. The main trade-offs are a basic spray nozzle, a faint chlorine scent, and a compact 2 oz size — minor quibbles for a product that rivals $28+ luxury HOCl sprays on performance.A calm-skin essential worth keeping on your bathroom shelf, in your gym bag, and by your nightstand.
Product Overview
What are Quick Product Notes?
Quick product notes are a great way to check if a product is free from commonly avoided ingredients by skincare enthusiasts. These preferences come about for different reasons depending on the ingredient such as personal experiences, sensitivities, health preferences & etc.
Pro Tip Alert!
Just because a product is not free from a common preference does not mean it's a bad product! You can make a personal decision whether or not you want to use a product that contains these ingredients or not - click the labels of the preference to read more about them.
Quick Product Notes
Paraben-Free
Paraben-Free
Understanding Parabens
Parabens are a large group of preservatives which are used to prevent bacteria growing in cosmetic formulations. There has been some healthy controversy surrounding them due to a few studies finding paraben presence in breast tumours and breast tissue. However, the majority of the scientific community have deemed these findings non-conclusive due to the limitations of these studies. There's still a lot of support for avoiding parabens following the better safe than sorry route. If you do we completely support you! If you are concerned about the health safety of parabens, then feel free to avoid them by looking out for the Paraben-Free icon. If not, don't worry about it - they do have had one of the longest safety records as preservatives!
Which Ingredients are classified as Paraben?
A product will be paraben-free if it does not contain any of the following parabens:
- Sodium Isobutylparaben
- Sodium Ethylparaben
- Sodium Butylparaben
- Propylparaben
- Isopropylparaben
- Isobutylparaben
- Sodium Propylparaben
- Butylparaben
- Ethylparaben
- Sodium Methylparaben
- Methylparaben
Sulfate-Free
Sulfate-Free
Understanding Sulfates
Sulfates are a large group of ingredients which act as cleansing agents in Cosmetics. They help loosen up the dirt and grime from your skin and hair to allow for water to wash it away with ease. However some sulfates are so good at their job, they can wash off your skin’s own natural oils that keep it moisturised and protected which can lead to dryness and irritation. Most people will find no issues with sulfate, however if you find your skin doesn't like sulfates then free feel to avoid them by looking out for the sulfate-free icon on Skincarisma.
Which ingredients are classified as sulfates?
We've taken the Sulfates which are considered more harsh for our Sulfate-Free status. A product will be Sulfate-Free if it does not contain any of the following Sulfates:
- TEA-Dodecylbenzenesulfonate
- Ammonium Laureth Sulfate
- Sodium Lauryl Sulfate
- PEG-15 Cocamine
- Sodium Laureth Sulfate
- Sodium Cocoyl Sarcosinate
- Sodium C14-16 Olefin Sulfonate
- Dioctyl Sodium Sulfosuccinate
- Ammonium Xylenesulfonate
- Ammonium Lauryl Sulfate
- Sodium Xylenesulfonate
- Sodium Myreth Sulfate
- Sodium Lauryl Sulfoacetate
Alcohol-Free
Alcohol-Free
Understanding Simple Alcohols
Alcohol ingredients are widely used in cosmetics and come in different types. For the most part alcohols are not problematic at all. However one type of alcohols, simple alcohols can be quite drying to the skin because it evaporates very quickly. This can cause irritation which can also lead to other skin complications. These alcohols should never be used alone on your skin, but combined with other cosmetic ingredients, they are normally without issue. However, for some people with sensitive and easily irritable skin, avoiding products with these simple alcohols may be beneficial. If you find your skin doesn't like these simple alcohols, then free feel to avoid them by looking out for the Alcohol-Free icon.
Which Ingredients are classified as Alcohol?
A product will be alcohol-free if it does not contain any of the following alcohol ingredients:
- SD Alcohol
- Alcohol Denat
- Isopropyl Alcohol
- Alcohol
Silicone-Free
Silicone-Free
Understanding Silicones
If you've ever used a skincare, makeup or beauty product that's made your skin look and feel smoother tempoarily - it's likely contained Silicone. They are a popular class of ingredients found in cosmetics due to their smooth, soft, easy-to-spread and smooth properties that help creates an artificial layer/barrier on top of skin or hair (commonly found in conditioners).
For the same reasons they are popularly used, they are also commonly avoided. Anecdotally, many individuals have reported that Silicones cause/excerbate breakouts, irritation, cause a feeling of skin being unable to breathe, cause clumping of cosmetic products and find it difficult to wash off. As a result, those who find them problematic are avoiding them and increasingly, cosmetic companies are avoiding them as well.
If you have had bad experiences with Silicones in the past, or suspect they are problematic then look out for the tick on the Silicone-free label.
Disclaimer
The Silicone-free label only includes the most common Silicone ingredients that have indentified been reported by individuals that could potentially cause issues.
These include: Amodimethicone, Behenoxy Dimethicone, Bis-Aminopropyl Dimethicone, Cetearyl Methicone, Cetyl Dimethicone, Cyclomethicone, Cyclopentasiloxane, Dimethicone, Dimethicone Copolyol, Dimethiconol, Methicone, Phenyl Trimethicone, Phenyl Trimethicone, Stearoxy Dimethicone, Stearyl Dimethicone, Trimethylsilylamodimethicone.
Note, that this does not include all ingredients part of the Silicone class of ingredients.
EU Allergen-Free
EU Allergen-Free
Understanding the Identified Contact Allergens
The EU's Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety (SCCS) has identified and established 26 cosmetic ingredients that are likely contact allergens (potential to cause skin allergies) as demonstrated in clinical or epidemiological studies. The EU's SCCS have recommend cosmetic companies to disclose them on the labels if used and in cases where the concentration exceeds 0.001% in leave-on products and 0.01% in rinse-off products, then they must be labelled.
Look out for the tick on the EU-Allergen free label to know your cosmetic is free from any of the 26 identified cosmetic ingredients.
For more information regarding the EU's Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety, please visit their official website.
Disclaimer
The EU Allergen Free label is for the 26 ingredients identified by the EU SCCS and products will be only flagged if a suspected ingredient is on it's ingredient list. It is possible for cosmetics to contain one of the suspect ingredients without it appearing on the ingredient list due to it not reaching the concentration threshold to disclose it and cosmetic manufacturers choice to not disclose it.
Also note, the EU Allergen Free label is not personalized for your own allergies you may have and it does not constitute as medical advice. For your specific case, always consult your medical professiona such as dermatologist, physician, pharmacist, or health care provider - please read our medical disclaimer for more information.
Fungal Acne (Molassezia) Safe
Fungal Acne (Molassezia) Safe
Understanding Fungal Acne (Pityrosporum Folliculitis/Malassezia Folliculitis)
Pityrosporum Folliculitis/Malassezia folliculitis or simply known as Fungal Acne is a persistent acne-like condition that commonly responds poorly to traditional acne-treating methods. Unlike most cases of Acne where bacteria is the culprit, Fungi is the culprit of Fungal Acne (Hence the name!). There are certain classes & groups of ingredients that have been shown to promote and feed the growth of the Fungal Acne, Fungi such as fatty acids, oils, esters, polysorbates and fermented ingredients.
For more information regarding Fungal Acne, please visit Simple Skincare Science (f.c) - #3 of our Recommend Skincare Resources for an amazing comprehensive guide!
Please Read: How to use the Fungal Acne (Malassezia) Label
At SkinCarisma, we've done our best to identify as many ingredients as possible but note the fungal-free label may not be 100% accurate due to the complexconditions and combination of ingredients that malezzeria can thrive on.
Additionally, products that may contain ingredients that have shown to feed Malassezia may not neccessarily exacerbate the condition due to concentration of ingredient used in the product, this information is simply not available on the products.
As a result, please note this is only an experimental label that can be best used to possible identify problematic products you have used in the past. It is in no way a perfect identifier nor a predictor in whether or not it will exacerbate or cause fungal acne. It will continue to be worked on as more information and research comes to light.
If you find any ingredients you believe should be included, please email us at snails@skincarisma.com.
Disclaimer
Due to the lack of substantial research into this area it is very likely there are other ingredients and class/groups of ingredients that could feed Fungal Acne which have not been indentified.
The Fungal-Safe label does not constitute as medical advice. For your specific case, always consult your medical professiona such as dermatologist, physician, pharmacist, or health care provider - please read our medical disclaimer for more information.
What are Notable Effects & Ingredients?
Ever used a product that promised a certain effect but provided no results? It might not have contained any notable ingredients that could have been responsible for that promised effect. It doesn't matter what the marketing or packaging «promises» it can do, if it doesn't contain anything that can help - then the likelihood of it helping is low.
We help you identify key notable ingredients that have been shown to help with effects such as acne-fighting, brightening, UV-protection, wound healing & anti-aging to help you achieve your skincare goals smarter. Please note that different notable ingredients have varying levels of research behind them, some are extremely well proven yet some have mixed research in their efficacy.
Pro Tip Alert!
Just because a product doesn't contain any notable ingredients doesn't mean it's bad. And a product with notable ingredients (or even many) doesn't necessarily guarantee the efficacy of the product performing these effects either. There are other factors such as ingredient quality, concentration and formulation that will ultimately determine this.
Be smart and use this as just a starting point for you to make more informed and smarter choices and compare it with reviews to see if the product is right for you
Notable Effects & Ingredients
Ache-fighting from 1 ingredient(s):
What are Ingredients Related to Skin Type?
Why are some products great for some people and horrible for others? Well everyone has different skin types and different reactions to the same ingredients.
We've identified a range of ingredients that are commonly regarded as potentially good or bad for those with Dry, Oily/Acne-Prone or Sensitive skin.
Pro Tip Alert!
A product that contains good or bad ingredients for your skin type doesn't always flat out make the entire product good or bad for your skin. There are other factors such as ingredient quality, concentration and formulation that will ultimately determine your skins reaction.
One of the best ways to use this section is to troubleshoot products you've had bad experiences with in the past. Check if it contains any of the marked ingredients to point out suspect ingredients to avoid in the future!
Ingredients Related to Skin Types
Dry Skin
Oily/Acne-Prone Skin
Sensitive Skin
What is the Ingredient Safety Breakdown?
Ingredient Safety Breakdown refers to the percentage % of ingredients in different risk categories as classified by EWG (Environment Working Group) if they are available. There are almost endless cosmetic ingredients and they are one of the few organisations globally that have assigned ratings to a lot of the more commonly used ingredients which is why we reference them.
Pro Tip Alert!
EWG is seen by many to be more on the alarmist side in their assignment of health ratings resulting in rating ingredients as riskier than they actually are. We recommend using this a reference point rather than a strict guide of ingredient safety and to always do further research if into ingredients that you may find suspect.
Ingredient Safety Breakdown
Product ingredient list
| EWG | CIR | Ingredient Name & Cosmetic Functions | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 |
Sodium Chloride
Masking, Viscosity Controlling, Bulking Agent
|
|
|
| 0 |
Hypochlorous Acid
Antiseborrhoeic
|
Ache-fighting
|
|
| 1 |
Water
Solvent, Skin Conditioning
|
|