Pairs well with: Hydrating toners and essences, centella-rich layers, green tea products, niacinamide serums, hyaluronic acid, and peptide treatments. These combinations reinforce the serum’s calming and repairing effects, making it ideal for routines focused on redness, dehydration, or post-acid recovery.
Compatible with: This formula works seamlessly with most barrier-supporting and hydrating actives. It layers well with niacinamide, fermented extracts, gentle vitamin C derivatives (SAP, MAP, 3-O-ethyl ascorbic acid), and lightweight gel or cream moisturisers. It also integrates easily into mixed-brand routines, especially when the goal is soothing inflammation, softening texture, or strengthening the skin barrier. The serum’s peptide blend (copper tripeptide, hexapeptides, and pentapeptides) complements anti-ageing routines without causing conflicts, making it suitable for both morning and evening use.
Retinoids & exfoliators: The SOS Serum pairs well with low-strength or buffered retinoids, offering a calming layer that reduces the likelihood of flaking or irritation. It can also be used with mild AHA/BHA/PHA products such as low-dose toners, pads, or soft-acid essences. Apply after these actives to cushion the skin and support recovery. For oily or acne-prone skin, alternating nights may feel more balanced, while dry or sensitive skin types can often use them in the same routine without issue.
Simple rule: Mild actives = safe in the same routine with the serum. Strong acids or high-strength retinoids = alternate nights.
Avoid using: High-strength acid serums (5–10% AHA/BHA/PHA) in the same routine, as the serum’s soothing actives may not fully counterbalance the irritation. Those with oily skin may wish to avoid layering it with very heavy occlusives, as the calming formula already contains hydrating polymers and peptides that offer adequate moisture.
Layering tip: Apply after toner or essence on slightly damp skin, followed by eye cream and your preferred moisturiser. Suitable both morning and evening. Always follow with SPF during daytime.
Pro Tip: Designed as a true “rescue serum”, the combination of centella, green tea, licorice root, soothing botanicals, hyaluronic acid, and advanced peptides makes this an excellent choice for irritated, sensitised, post-exfoliation, or barrier-compromised skin. Ideal as a daily calming step or a recovery treatment on days when the skin feels reactive.