SOS Daily Rescue Facial Spray
SOS Daily Rescue Facial Spray
Product Description
Product overview
A clinically proven, dermatologist-approved hypochlorous acid facial spray that calms redness, fights breakout-causing bacteria, and soothes stressed, angry skin. With only 3 ultra-clean ingredients and a pH of 4.5, this toner treatment is recognized by the National Eczema Association, National Rosacea Society, and National Psoriasis Foundation.
Antibacterial Defense
Hypochlorous acid kills acne-causing bacteria on contact while being gentle enough for eczema-prone skin.
Texture & feel
SENSORYAntibacterial Defense
Hypochlorous acid kills acne-causing bacteria on contact while being gentle enough for eczema-prone skin.
Anti-Inflammatory Action
Clinically shown to reduce visible redness in just 60 minutes. Calms irritation, flare-ups, and post-workout skin stress.
Barrier Support
Strengthens and supports the skin barrier without stripping moisture. Works with your body's natural immune system.
Post-Workout Essential
Purifies skin after sweating to prevent breakouts. Spray anytime, anywhere — over makeup, post-gym, or post-procedure.
Safety & compatibility
SAFEContains no retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone, or chemical sunscreens. Hypochlorous acid has zero systemic absorption and is naturally produced by the body. Safe for all trimesters.
Contains no ferments, fatty acids, esters, polysorbates, or oils that feed Malassezia yeast. The 3-ingredient formula is one of the safest options for fungal acne sufferers.
Holds the National Eczema Association Seal of Acceptance. Also recognized by the National Rosacea Society and National Psoriasis Foundation — the only HOCl spray with all three endorsements.
Zero comedogenic ingredients. Contains only water, sodium chloride, and hypochlorous acid — no oils, waxes, or pore-clogging compounds.
Apply before retinol, AHA, BHA, or vitamin C and let it dry fully first. HOCl is fast-acting and won't interact with subsequent products once absorbed.
HOCl is an oxidizer and may neutralize strong antioxidants like vitamin C if applied simultaneously. Allow the spray to dry completely (30–60 seconds) before applying vitamin C serum.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSHypochlorous Acid (HOCl) 0.015%Proven
The hero ingredient — a molecule naturally produced by your white blood cells as a first line of immune defense. Tower 28's chemists spent 8 years stabilizing this notoriously fickle compound for optimized facial use at pH 4.5.
- Mechanism: Destroys bacterial cell walls through oxidative action while leaving healthy skin cells unharmed.
- Clinical: 100% of participants saw reduced redness after 1 hour; 100% saw decreased blemishes after 4 weeks (third-party study, 30 participants).
- Research: Widely used in wound care and dermatology. FDA-cleared for medical use. Effective against bacteria, viruses, and fungi without contributing to antibiotic resistance.
Electrolyzed Water ~99%Proven
Purified, deionized water that serves as the base and optimal delivery vehicle for hypochlorous acid. The electrolysis process is what generates HOCl from the water and salt solution.
- Function: Acts as a solvent and carrier, ensuring even distribution of HOCl across the skin surface.
- Purity: Pharmaceutical-grade water ensures no contaminants interfere with HOCl stability or skin compatibility.
Sodium Chloride (NaCl) TraceProven
Medical-grade salt that creates the isotonic saline environment needed to keep hypochlorous acid stable and effective. Mimics the body's natural salt balance.
- Function: Stabilizes the HOCl molecule and creates a pH-balanced solution compatible with skin's natural chemistry.
- Safety: Isotonic salt solutions are used universally in wound irrigation and nasal sprays — extremely well-tolerated.
3 ingredients
Water/Aqua/Eau, Sodium Chloride, Hypochlorous Acid.
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEUse AM + PM after cleansing. Can also be sprayed over makeup throughout the day or post-workout. Let dry fully before applying next products.
How to use
HOW TO USECleanse Your Face
Start with clean, dry skin. Use a gentle cleanser and pat dry. SOS Spray works best on a freshly cleansed surface.
Mist Generously
Hold the bottle 8–10 inches from your face and spray 3–5 pumps evenly across your skin. Focus on problem areas like redness, blemishes, or irritation.
Let It Dry Down
Allow 30–60 seconds for the spray to fully absorb and dry. This ensures the HOCl has time to work its antibacterial and anti-inflammatory action.
Continue Your Routine
Follow with your serum, moisturizer, and sunscreen. The spray won't interfere with subsequent products once it has dried down completely.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You have sensitive, reactive, or easily irritated skin
- You deal with redness, rosacea, or eczema flare-ups
- You break out after workouts, wearing masks, or sweating
- You want a minimalist, ultra-clean ingredient list
- You need something pregnancy and breastfeeding safe
- You want a calming toner that won't disrupt your barrier
Consider alternatives if:
- You need deep hydration — this is a treatment, not a moisturizer
- You want a dewy, glowy setting spray for makeup
- You prefer exfoliating toners with AHA/BHA actives
- You want anti-aging benefits like retinol or peptides
- You find the price-per-ounce too high for a simple formula
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESWeightless watery formula adds zero oil or shine. Antibacterial action helps manage excess sebum-related breakouts.
Calms irritation well but provides no hydration. Must be paired with a rich moisturizer — not a standalone solution for dry skin.
Works beautifully across different face zones. Purifies oily T-zone while calming drier, more sensitive areas without over-drying.
Specifically formulated for sensitive skin. NEA Seal of Acceptance certified. No fragrance, alcohol, or known irritants in the formula.
Non-comedogenic (0/5), fungal acne safe, and antibacterial. Targets acne-causing bacteria without the dryness of benzoyl peroxide.
Results timeline
6+ WEEKSImmediate Redness Relief
Visible calming and cooling effect on irritated, flushed skin. The anti-inflammatory properties of HOCl begin working on contact.
100% saw improvement in redness (clinical study)Breakout Reduction Begins
Active blemishes start shrinking as antibacterial action takes effect. Many users notice a clearer complexion and fewer new breakouts emerging.
~70% noticed improvement in breakoutsClearer, Calmer Skin
Consistent AM/PM use leads to noticeably fewer blemishes, reduced overall redness, and a stronger, more resilient skin barrier.
100% saw decrease in blemishes (clinical study)Skin Renewal & Purification
Long-term users report skin looks and feels purified, renewed, and significantly less reactive. Flare-ups become less frequent and less severe.
94% agree spray helped renew and purify skinRatings by platform
17K+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Dramatically calms redness and rosacea flare-ups — many call it a "miracle product"
- Ultra-simple 3-ingredient formula with no known irritants
- Recognized by 3 major U.S. skin health organizations (NEA, NRS, NPF)
- Versatile use: post-workout, post-procedure, over makeup, on body
- Clinically proven results in as little as 1 hour for redness
- Pregnancy, breastfeeding, and fungal acne safe
- Fine mist sprayer provides even, comfortable application
Criticized
- Expensive per ounce compared to competitor HOCl sprays ($7/oz vs ~$2/oz)
- 4 oz bottle empties quickly with twice-daily full-face use
- Does not hydrate — it's a treatment, not a moisturizer
- Faint pool/chlorine scent from HOCl can be noticeable
- Some users with mild skin concerns saw no visible difference
- Not a setting spray — will not extend makeup wear
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPES
Nearly identical ingredients (water, NaCl, HOCl at 0.014%). Double the size (8 oz) for almost half the price. Less refined sprayer and no beauty brand cachet, but same core formula.
Pure hypochlorous acid spray marketed as a facial cleanser. Larger 8 oz bottle at a fraction of the price. Strong following on TikTok as a Tower 28 dupe. Sprayer quality is basic.
HOCl spray with added chamomile oil, hyaluronic acid, and botanical extracts for extra soothing. Not as minimalist as Tower 28, but adds hydration benefits. Not fungal acne safe due to added oils.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDETower 28 SOS Spray
Active Skin Repair Spray
e11ement HOCl Spray
Storage & shelf life
6 MONTHS6 months after opening. Hypochlorous acid degrades over time, especially once exposed to air. Use within 6 months for best efficacy.
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and heat above 77°F (25°C). Do not decant into a different container — air exposure accelerates degradation.
Clear plastic spray bottle with fine-mist nozzle. Recyclable packaging — remove cap and label before recycling. Also available in 16 oz jumbo refill size.
Yes — 1 oz mini size available (under 100ml TSA limit). Full 4 oz size exceeds carry-on liquid limit but fits in checked luggage.
Frequently asked questions
FAQYes. The SOS Spray contains only water, sodium chloride, and hypochlorous acid — none of which are on the restricted list for pregnancy or breastfeeding. HOCl is naturally produced by your immune system and has zero systemic absorption, meaning it does not enter the bloodstream. There are no retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone, or chemical sunscreens in this product. It is considered safe for all trimesters and while nursing. Always consult your healthcare provider if you have specific concerns.
Yes. With only 3 ingredients — water, sodium chloride, and hypochlorous acid — this formula contains absolutely no ferments, fatty acids, esters, polysorbates, or oils that feed the Malassezia yeast responsible for fungal acne. It is one of the safest products available for fungal acne sufferers. The antibacterial properties of HOCl can also help manage bacteria that contribute to breakouts alongside fungal concerns.
Yes, but with one important note: apply SOS Spray first and let it dry completely (30–60 seconds) before applying actives. HOCl is an oxidizing agent, so applying it simultaneously with strong antioxidants like vitamin C may reduce the efficacy of the vitamin C. Once dried, HOCl will not interact with retinol, AHA, BHA, or other actives. Tower 28 recommends using SOS Spray before any actives in your routine.
SOS Spray is excellent for sensitive, acne-prone, oily, and combination skin types. It was specifically designed for reactive skin and holds the National Eczema Association Seal of Acceptance. Those with rosacea, eczema, psoriasis, and acne report the most dramatic results. Dry skin types can benefit from its calming properties but will need to pair it with a hydrating moisturizer, as it does not provide moisture on its own.
Results vary by individual: clinical studies show 100% of participants saw redness improvement within 1 hour and blemish reduction within 4 weeks. Many users report visible changes in 3–7 days with consistent AM/PM use. Tower 28 notes that some see results in 3 days while others need up to 3 months. Consistency is key — for best results, use twice daily along with SOS Serum and SOS Cream.
Use SOS Spray as step 2 in your routine, immediately after cleansing and before any serums or treatments. It functions as a toner/treatment spray. Spray onto clean, dry skin, let it dry down fully, then continue with your serum, moisturizer, and sunscreen. You can also use it throughout the day over makeup, post-workout, or whenever your skin needs a calming reset.
No. Tower 28 SOS Spray has a comedogenic rating of 0 out of 5. The formula contains only water, salt, and hypochlorous acid — there are no oils, waxes, silicones, fatty acids, or any other ingredients known to clog pores. It is fully non-comedogenic and safe for acne-prone skin. In fact, its antibacterial action actively helps keep pores clear.
The recommended period after opening (PAO) is 6 months. Hypochlorous acid is inherently unstable and will lose potency over time, particularly when exposed to air, light, and heat. Store your bottle in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Do not transfer the product to a different container, as air exposure during decanting accelerates degradation. Check the expiration date printed on the bottle for the unopened shelf life.
Verdict: Tower 28 SOS Daily Rescue Facial Spray is a standout product for anyone struggling with redness, sensitivity, breakouts, or reactive skin. Its ultra-minimal 3-ingredient formula — backed by clinical data and triple endorsement from major U.S. skin health organizations — makes it one of the safest, most trustworthy facial sprays on the market. It excels at what it does: calming inflammation, fighting bacteria, and supporting skin barrier health. The main caveat is value — at $7 per ounce, you're paying a significant premium for a formula that cheaper HOCl sprays closely replicate. If you prioritize the refined sprayer, the stabilization R&D, and the brand's clean beauty certifications, it is well worth the investment. For budget-conscious buyers, BRIOTECH offers an excellent near-identical alternative at a fraction of the cost.
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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.