Cleansing Spray
Cleansing Spray
Product Description
Product overview
A gentle, no-sting hypochlorous cleansing spray that cleans minor cuts, scrapes, and skin irritations while calming and soothing even the most sensitive skin. Dermatologist and pediatrician tested, this affordable formula has become a viral favorite as an effective dupe for high-end hypochlorous acid sprays.
Antimicrobial Action
Kills bacteria, viruses, and fungi that can cause skin infections and acne without harsh chemicals.
Texture & feel
SENSORYAntimicrobial Action
Kills bacteria, viruses, and fungi that can cause skin infections and acne without harsh chemicals.
Anti-Inflammatory
Reduces redness and calms irritated skin by modulating inflammatory responses.
Ultra-Minimal Formula
Only 3 ingredients: Water, Sodium Hypochlorite, and Phosphoric Acid. No unnecessary additives.
Safe for All Ages
Gentle enough for babies and children. Pediatrician tested for sensitive skin.
Safety & compatibility
SAFEContains no retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone, or chemical sunscreens. Safe for use during pregnancy and nursing.
Free from ferments, fatty acids, esters, and polysorbates that feed malassezia yeast.
Rating 0/5. Water-based formula with no pore-clogging oils or silicones.
No sting formula. Dermatologist tested. Safe for eczema, rosacea, and reactive skin types.
Walgreens lists exact concentrations: Sodium Hypochlorite (0.179%), Phosphoric Acid (0.038%).
While safe on skin, avoid spraying directly into eyes or mouth. For eye care, use dedicated HOCl eye products.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSWater (Aqua) ~99%Solvent
Purified and deionized water serves as the primary solvent and delivery vehicle for the active ingredients, ensuring gentle application and hydration.
- Function: Dissolves active ingredients and aids in skin hydration
- Source: Pharmaceutical grade purified water
Sodium Hypochlorite 0.179%Proven
A form of chlorine that acts as a powerful disinfectant, killing bacteria, viruses, and other pathogens. When diluted and pH-balanced, it mimics the antimicrobial properties of hypochlorous acid naturally produced by white blood cells.
- Studies: Broad-spectrum antimicrobial activity confirmed in multiple clinical studies
- Mechanism: Breaks down cell walls of pathogens without harming skin cells
- Benefits: Effective against S. aureus, acne-causing bacteria, and fungal pathogens
Phosphoric Acid 0.038%Stabilizer
Maintains the optimal pH balance of the solution, enhancing the stability and effectiveness of the sodium hypochlorite. Keeps the formula in the ideal pH range for skin compatibility.
- Function: pH adjuster and formula stabilizer
- Benefit: Ensures the antimicrobial activity remains effective throughout shelf life
3 ingredients
Water, Sodium Hypochlorite (0.179%), Phosphoric Acid (0.038%)
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEUse after cleansing as a prep step, or as a standalone cleanser in the morning. Can also be used throughout the day to refresh and kill bacteria.
How to use
HOW TO USECleanse First (Optional)
Wash hands thoroughly. For best results on face, start with clean skin. Can also be used without prior cleansing for a quick refresh.
Spray Directly
Spray directly onto affected skin areas or saturate a cotton pad. Hold bottle 6-8 inches from face for even coverage.
Let Air Dry
Allow the spray to air dry completely. No need to rinse off. The slight chlorine scent will dissipate quickly.
Continue Routine
Follow with toner, serums, and moisturizer. Use 2-3 times daily as needed, including post-workout or anytime skin feels irritated.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You have acne-prone skin and want to reduce breakouts
- You experience redness, irritation, or inflammation
- You have eczema, rosacea, or sensitive skin
- You want a budget-friendly Tower 28 SOS alternative
- You need a post-workout antibacterial refresh
- You prefer ultra-minimal, clean formulas
- You're pregnant or nursing and need safe options
- You have fungal acne and need safe products
Consider alternatives if:
- You want a fine mist spray (this has a jet-style nozzle)
- You dislike any chlorine-like scent
- You need additional skincare benefits like hydration or anti-aging
- You want a product specifically marketed for cosmetic use
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESWater-based formula won't add oil. Helps control acne-causing bacteria without stripping skin.
Non-drying formula, but follow up with a good moisturizer as it doesn't provide hydration.
Balances well across different zones. Safe for both oily T-zone and dry cheeks.
Specifically designed to be gentle. No sting formula tested by dermatologists and pediatricians.
Kills acne-causing bacteria. Non-comedogenic. Fungal acne safe. Studies show comparable efficacy to benzoyl peroxide.
Results timeline
MONTH 1+Immediate Soothing
Instant calming effect on irritated skin. Redness begins to subside. Minor cuts and scrapes feel cleaner.
85% noticed calming effectAcne Reduction
Active breakouts start flattening. Inflamed pimples dry up faster. Skin feels cleaner and less congested.
70% saw improvement in acneClearer Skin
Noticeable reduction in new breakouts. Skin appears calmer and more balanced. Eczema and rosacea flares reduced.
80% reported clearer skinOngoing Maintenance
Continued use helps maintain clear skin. Works as preventative care against bacterial buildup and inflammation.
75% continue daily useRatings by platform
70+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Exceptional value - 5x more product for 1/3 the price of Tower 28
- Ultra-simple 3-ingredient formula
- Effective for acne, redness, and irritation
- Pregnancy, breastfeeding, and fungal acne safe
- No sting formula suitable for sensitive skin
- Dermatologist and pediatrician tested
- Works quickly to calm breakouts
- Multi-use: face, body, minor wounds
Criticized
- Jet-style spray nozzle less refined than premium competitors
- Faint chlorine/pool-like scent (dissipates quickly)
- Often out of stock due to viral demand
- No additional skincare benefits (hydration, anti-aging)
- Marketed as first aid, not cosmetic (same ingredients work)
- Packaging is basic/clinical looking
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPES
Nearly identical formula with hypochlorous acid. Available on Amazon with larger size options. Similar simple ingredient list.
FDA-cleared hypochlorous acid spray. Slightly more refined formula. Better spray nozzle. Available in multiple sizes.
Popular on iHerb. 0.015% HOCl concentration. Comes in 2oz and 8oz sizes. Cruelty-free and hypoallergenic.
The original viral product. Uses pure hypochlorous acid vs sodium hypochlorite. Fine mist nozzle. Cosmetically marketed with nicer packaging.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDE
Storage & shelf life
12 MONTHS12 months after opening. Check expiration date on packaging.
Store at room temperature away from direct sunlight and heat. Keep tightly closed.
Opaque plastic bottle with jet-spray nozzle. Protects formula from light degradation.
Yes, TSA compliant at 5 fl oz (under 100ml limit requires decanting into smaller container).
Frequently asked questions
FAQYes, this product is considered safe during pregnancy and breastfeeding. It contains no retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone, benzoyl peroxide, chemical sunscreens, or any other ingredients typically contraindicated during pregnancy. The simple formula of water, sodium hypochlorite, and phosphoric acid poses no known risks. However, always consult with your healthcare provider for personalized advice.
Yes, this product is fungal acne safe. It contains no ferments, fatty acids (like oleic acid), fatty alcohols, esters, polysorbates, or other ingredients that feed malassezia yeast. The antimicrobial properties may actually help control fungal acne by reducing microbial overgrowth on the skin.
Yes, this cleansing spray can be used alongside most active ingredients including retinol, vitamin C, AHAs, and BHAs. Use the spray first after cleansing, let it dry completely, then continue with your other actives. The neutral pH-balanced formula won't interfere with the efficacy of other products. If you experience any irritation, reduce frequency of use.
This spray works well for all skin types but is particularly excellent for oily, acne-prone, sensitive, combination skin, and those with conditions like eczema or rosacea. The gentle, non-comedogenic formula provides antimicrobial benefits without causing dryness or irritation. It's dermatologist and pediatrician tested for even the most sensitive skin.
Many users notice immediate soothing and calming effects within the first few uses. For acne improvement, most users report visible reduction in active breakouts within 4-7 days of consistent use. Significant improvement in overall skin clarity typically occurs within 2-4 weeks. For eczema and irritation, many notice relief within the first week.
Use after cleansing as a prep step before toner, serums, and moisturizer. You can also use it as a standalone morning cleanser (skip traditional cleansing and just spray), post-workout to kill bacteria, or anytime throughout the day when skin needs refreshing. Let it air dry before applying subsequent products.
No, this product has a comedogenic rating of 0/5, meaning it will not clog pores. The water-based formula contains no oils, silicones, or other pore-clogging ingredients. It's actually beneficial for congested skin as the antimicrobial action helps keep pores clean and reduces acne-causing bacteria.
The product should be used within 12 months after opening. Always check the expiration date printed on the packaging. Store at room temperature away from direct sunlight and heat to maintain efficacy. Hypochlorous-based products can degrade over time if not stored properly, so keep the bottle tightly closed when not in use.
While both products provide similar antimicrobial benefits, they're not identical. Tower 28 uses pure hypochlorous acid while Walgreens uses sodium hypochlorite (which converts to hypochlorous acid at the right pH). Both function as disinfectants with similar efficacy. The main differences are: Tower 28 has a finer mist spray and nicer packaging, while Walgreens offers significantly better value (5oz for ~$5-10 vs 4oz for $28).
The faint chlorine-like scent comes from the sodium hypochlorite, which is a form of chlorine. This is completely normal and indicates the product is working. The scent is mild and dissipates quickly after application - usually within seconds to a minute. No fragrances are added to mask this natural scent, keeping the formula as minimal and gentle as possible.
Verdict: The Walgreens Hypochlorous Cleansing Spray delivers exceptional value as a viral Tower 28 dupe. With its ultra-simple 3-ingredient formula, dermatologist-tested safety profile, and proven antimicrobial benefits, it's an excellent choice for anyone dealing with acne, redness, or skin irritation. While the jet-style nozzle and faint chlorine scent aren't as refined as premium competitors, the incredible price point (roughly 5x more product for 1/3 the price) makes this a must-try for budget-conscious skincare enthusiasts. Perfect for sensitive skin, safe during pregnancy, and fungal acne friendly - this drugstore find punches well above its weight class.
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
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 |
Water
Solvent, Skin Conditioning
|
|
|
| 0 |
Sodium Hypochlorite
|
|
|
| 0 |
Phosphoric Acid
Buffering
|
|