Skin Renew Toner
Skin Renew Toner
Product Description
Product overview
A pure, ultra-gentle hypochlorous acid (HOCl) facial mist with only 3 clean ingredients. Clinically and dermatologically tested to calm redness, minimize blemishes, and balance problem-prone skin. Gentle enough for all ages and skin types, including sensitive and acne-prone skin.
Body-Identical Molecule
HOCl is naturally produced by your white blood cells as part of your immune defense. This toner harnesses the same molecule externally.
Texture & feel
SENSORYBody-Identical Molecule
HOCl is naturally produced by your white blood cells as part of your immune defense. This toner harnesses the same molecule externally.
Patented Purity Process
Manufactured in-house at Briotech's cGMP certified, FDA and EPA registered facility using a patented electrolysis system for maximum stability.
Ultra-Minimal Formula
Just 3 ingredients: purified water, sodium chloride (salt), and hypochlorous acid. Nothing else. No hidden fillers or preservatives.
Clinically Proven Results
Consumer test panel with 185 participants showed noticeably decreased skin reactivity and calmer, more balanced complexions after 6 weeks of daily use.
Safety & compatibility
SAFEContains no retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone, or chemical sunscreens. HOCl is a naturally occurring molecule in the human body with zero systemic absorption. Safe during all trimesters.
Free of ferments, fatty acids, esters, polysorbates, and oils. The ultra-minimal formula contains nothing that feeds Malassezia yeast.
With only water, salt, and HOCl, there are zero pore-clogging ingredients. Will not cause or worsen acne breakouts.
Hypoallergenic and dermatologically tested. Certified by the Finnish Allergy, Skin and Asthma Federation with their Allergy Label.
Gentle enough for babies and pets. No harsh chemicals, alcohol, or irritants in the formula.
Can be layered with retinol, AHA/BHA, and niacinamide once dry. Avoid applying simultaneously with concentrated Vitamin C serums, as HOCl may reduce antioxidant efficacy.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSHypochlorous Acid (HOCl) 0.02%Proven
The star ingredient. A naturally occurring antimicrobial molecule produced by your body's white blood cells (neutrophils). At 0.02% concentration, it delivers clinically effective antibacterial and anti-inflammatory action while remaining ultra-gentle on skin.
- Mechanism: Selectively targets harmful bacteria (including C. acnes) without disrupting the skin's beneficial microbiome.
- Anti-inflammatory: Reduces redness and irritation by modulating the skin's inflammatory response at the cellular level.
- Wound healing: Supports natural tissue repair and has been used in medical wound care for decades.
- Clinical data: 185-person consumer panel showed calmer, more balanced complexions after 6 weeks of daily use.
Sodium Chloride (NaCl) TraceSupporting
Pure salt, used as a stabilizer in the electrolysis process that creates HOCl. Also provides mild isotonic properties to keep the solution balanced with the skin's natural environment.
- Function: Essential precursor in the electrolysis of water to produce hypochlorous acid.
- Isotonic balance: Maintains osmotic compatibility with skin cells, preventing irritation.
Electrolyzed Water (H₂O) BaseVehicle
Purified water that has undergone electrolysis along with sodium chloride. Serves as the vehicle for HOCl delivery and ensures the solution remains pure and stable.
- Purity: Produced in Briotech's FDA and EPA registered facility in Everett, WA.
- Stability: Briotech's patented electrolysis process ensures longer shelf stability compared to many competitor HOCl solutions.
3 ingredients
Electrolyzed Water (H₂O), Sodium Chloride (NaCl), Hypochlorous Acid (HOCl, 0.02%)
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEUse as the very first step after cleansing, morning and evening. Best applied when pores are open (after showering). Allow to dry before applying serums or moisturizer. Can also be used mid-day as a refreshing mist over makeup.
How to use
HOW TO USECleanse Your Skin
Wash face with your regular cleanser and pat dry. For best results, apply after a warm shower when pores are open.
Shake Lightly & Mist
Shake the bottle gently, then hold 6–8 inches from face and spray 2–3 times generously across your skin.
Let It Rest
Allow the toner to air dry for about 30 seconds, or gently pat into skin. No rinsing needed.
Follow with Skincare
Continue with serum and moisturizer. For best results, use 2–3 times daily for 4–6 weeks, then maintain with daily use.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You have acne-prone, blemish-prone, or congested skin
- You experience redness, rosacea, or keratosis pilaris (KP)
- You want a pregnancy-safe and fungal acne-safe toner
- You prefer ultra-minimal, clean ingredient lists
- You need a gentle post-workout or post-procedure skin reset
- You have eczema-prone or highly sensitive skin
- You want an affordable alternative to Tower 28 SOS Spray
Consider alternatives if:
- You want a toner with hydrating or moisturizing ingredients (HA, glycerin, etc.)
- You are very sensitive to chlorine-like scents
- You need anti-aging actives like retinol or peptides in your toner step
- You prefer a thicker, more viscous toner consistency
- You want exfoliating acids (AHA/BHA) in your toner
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESWeightless, water-like texture adds zero oil or shine. Antibacterial action helps control excess sebum-related breakouts.
Does not provide hydration on its own. Pair with a hydrating serum and rich moisturizer for best results on dry skin.
Works perfectly across different face zones without over-drying or adding greasiness. Balances and calms all areas equally.
Hypoallergenic, no fragrance, no preservatives. Certified by the Finnish Allergy Federation. Ideal for reactive, easily irritated skin.
Non-comedogenic (0/5), fungal acne safe, and antibacterial. Targets C. acnes bacteria without disrupting the healthy skin microbiome.
Results timeline
WEEK 4–6Immediate Soothing & Cooling
Instant cooling sensation upon application. Redness from irritation or post-workout flushing visibly calms within minutes. No stinging or residue.
85% noticed immediate soothingReduced Redness & Fewer Breakouts
Active blemishes begin healing faster. Overall skin redness decreases noticeably. Skin feels cleaner and more balanced throughout the day.
70% noticed reduced breakoutsCalmer, Clearer Complexion
Skin reactivity noticeably decreases. Blemish frequency drops significantly. Skin tone appears more even and balanced.
75% noticed clearer skinOptimal Results Achieved
Complexion appears consistently calmer and more balanced. Based on a 185-person consumer test panel using Renew Toner daily for six weeks. Continue use for daily maintenance.
80% achieved desired resultsRatings by platform
750+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Only 3 ultra-clean ingredients — the simplest toner on the market
- Noticeably calms redness and soothes irritated skin fast
- Excellent Tower 28 SOS alternative at a fraction of the price
- Safe for pregnancy, breastfeeding, fungal acne, and all ages
- Fine mist sprayer delivers even, comfortable application
- Made in FDA/EPA registered US facility with patented process
- Versatile — works on face, body, piercings, and post-workout
- No stinging, burning, or residue on skin
Criticized
- Faint chlorine/pool-like smell that bothers some users
- 4 oz bottle can run out quickly with recommended 2–3x daily use
- No moisturizing or hydrating ingredients — must layer with moisturizer
- HOCl can lose efficacy over time once opened if not stored properly
- Feels like spraying water — some users question if it's "doing anything"
- Not widely available in physical retail stores
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPES
Same brand, same core technology but at 0.014% HOCl (vs 0.02%). Double the volume for a similar price. Less targeted for facial skincare but identical ingredients. Best value per ounce.
Same 0.02% HOCl concentration with identical base ingredients (water, salt, HOCl). Larger 237 ml bottle. Less refined spray mechanism and not manufactured in-house like Briotech.
Higher HOCl concentration (0.018%) with similar clean formula. Marketed more as a cleanser than a toner. Larger bottle sizes available. Dermatologist-recommended alternative.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDE
Active Skin Repair Spray
Storage & shelf life
12 MONTHS12 months after opening. HOCl can gradually lose potency once exposed to air and light. If the solution loses its faint chlorine scent, efficacy may be reduced.
Store in a cool, dark place away from direct sunlight and heat. Do not refrigerate. Keep bottle sealed when not in use to maintain HOCl stability.
Opaque spray bottle with fine mist pump. Sealed for maximum freshness. Briotech controls manufacturing from raw materials to packaging.
Yes — 4 fl oz (120 ml) is over the TSA 100 ml limit. A 3.4 oz travel size (100 ml) is also available and is TSA-compliant.
Frequently asked questions
FAQYes. The Skin Renew Toner contains zero ingredients flagged as unsafe during pregnancy or breastfeeding — no retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone, or chemical sunscreens. Hypochlorous acid is naturally produced by the human body and has zero systemic absorption when applied topically. It is safe for all trimesters and while nursing. Dermatologists increasingly recommend HOCl products as a pregnancy-safe skincare option. As always, consult your healthcare provider if you have specific concerns.
Yes. The formula contains only water, salt, and hypochlorous acid. There are no ferments, fatty acids, esters, polysorbates, oils, or any other ingredients known to feed Malassezia yeast. It is one of the safest toners available for fungal acne-prone skin. HOCl also has antimicrobial properties that may help manage fungal acne symptoms.
Yes, with one caveat. Once the toner has fully dried (about 30 seconds), you can safely apply retinol, AHA, BHA, niacinamide, and other actives. However, avoid applying concentrated Vitamin C serums immediately after HOCl, as the oxidative properties of hypochlorous acid may reduce Vitamin C's antioxidant effectiveness. A good approach is to use HOCl in the evening and Vitamin C in the morning, or wait a few hours between them.
The Skin Renew Toner is suitable for all skin types but excels for oily, combination, sensitive, and acne-prone skin. Its weightless, water-like formula adds no oil or heaviness. For dry skin, it works well as a prep step but should be followed with a hydrating serum and rich moisturizer since HOCl alone does not provide moisture. It is also excellent for those with rosacea, eczema, and keratosis pilaris (KP).
Many users report an immediate soothing and cooling effect from the very first use. Visible improvements in redness and breakout frequency are commonly noticed within 1–2 weeks of consistent use. For optimal results, Briotech recommends using the toner 2–3 times daily for 4–6 weeks. A 185-person clinical panel showed significantly calmer, more balanced complexions after 6 weeks of daily use. Continue daily application for maintenance.
Apply as the very first step after cleansing — before serums, moisturizers, or sunscreen. Mist onto clean, bare skin and allow 30 seconds for it to dry before applying the next product. It can be used morning and evening, and also mid-day as a refreshing facial mist. For blemish-prone skin, it is most effective when applied right after showering when pores are open.
No. With a comedogenic rating of 0/5, the Skin Renew Toner is completely non-comedogenic. The formula contains only water, salt, and hypochlorous acid — none of which clog pores. In fact, HOCl's antibacterial properties actively help keep pores clean by targeting acne-causing bacteria. It is one of the safest toners for congestion-prone skin.
The toner is best used within 12 months after opening. Hypochlorous acid can gradually degrade when exposed to air, light, and heat, eventually losing potency. A key indicator is the faint chlorine-like scent — if that smell disappears, the HOCl may no longer be effective. Store in a cool, dark place with the cap tightly closed to maximize shelf life. Unopened bottles from Briotech have an 18–24 month shelf life from the date of manufacturing.
Verdict: The BRIOTECH Skin Renew Toner is a standout in the hypochlorous acid spray category, offering clinical-grade purity at a fraction of the price of competitors like Tower 28. With only 3 ingredients, it is one of the cleanest toners on the market — pregnancy safe, fungal acne safe, and suitable for every skin type. The 0.02% HOCl concentration is among the highest in the skincare category, backed by Briotech's 10+ years of research and patented manufacturing. Where it falls slightly short is the lack of hydrating ingredients (you will need a separate moisturizer) and the fact that HOCl can degrade over time if not stored carefully. For anyone dealing with blemishes, redness, rosacea, or sensitivity who wants a no-frills, science-backed toner, this is an exceptional value pick.
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 |
Water
Solvent, Skin Conditioning
|
|
|
| 1 |
Sodium Chloride
Masking, Viscosity Controlling, Bulking Agent
|
|
|
| 0 |
Hypochlorous Acid
Antiseborrhoeic
|
Ache-fighting
|