MissLJBeauty

I need to hold my hand up and bow my head in shame. I did the most stupid thing possible a few weeks ago. I test a lot of products and as normal, I am currently testing a new product that I am not ready to share with you yet, as I am just not sure about it yet. It's an active formula and you should not use any other actives with it. But like the idiot I am I grabbed a new cleanser, didn't read it and smothered it all over my face! You know what's coming next. I damaged my skin barrier really badly. You know when you have the instant feeling of regret, but you are already committed, that was me. The burning pain on my skin was punishment enough for my stupidity. Honestly, how long have I done this for?  So I needed a more heavy-duty formula to help my poor skin and we all know how much I love my Embryolisse Lait crème so it was time to try her sister the Embryolisse Cicalisse SOS Restorative Cream. I have heard so many things about this product that I had to give it a go. 

It's said to help if you’re battling dryness, redness, compromised skin like mine, or just need a reliable multi-purpose cream. This product claims to do it all. But does it live up to the hype? Let’s get into my review of Embryolisse SOS cream. 

Updated September 2025 to include my long-term results, pros & cons, and FAQs.

What is Embryolisse Cicalisse SOS Restorative Cream?

The Embryolisse Cicalisse SOS Restorative Cream is a rich, nourishing formula designed to soothe and repair compromised skin. You know the type of skin you have accidentally damaged using too many actives. Whether you’re dealing with dryness, irritation, or sensitivity, this creme promises to restore and protect. It’s formulated for those moments when your skin needs extra care and attention. It's basically a more powerful version of its sister product we all know and love. 

What Are the Key Ingredients in Cicalisse Cream?

This product boasts a carefully crafted blend of restorative and nourishing ingredients, including:

• Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride: Derived from coconut oil and glycerin, it softens the skin while providing a lightweight, non-greasy texture.

• Aloe Leaf Extract: Renowned for its soothing and hydrating properties, it helps calm irritated skin.

• Glycerin: A powerful humectant that locks in moisture, keeping the skin hydrated.

• Sweet Almond Oil (Prunus Amygdalus Dulcis Oil): An emollient that nourishes and softens, ideal for dry or sensitive skin.

• Hydrogenated Cottonseed Oil: Forms a protective barrier to prevent moisture loss and protect the skin.

• Tocopherol (Vitamin E): An antioxidant that supports skin health and helps combat free radical damage.

• Citric Acid: Balances the skin’s pH and provides gentle exfoliation to improve skin texture.

• Gossypium Herbaceum (Cotton) Seed Oil: Rich in fatty acids, it hydrates and restores the skin’s natural barrier.

• Prunus Armeniaca (Apricot) Kernel Oil: A lightweight oil that nourishes and revitalizes the skin.

• Sodium Hyaluronate: A form of hyaluronic acid that deeply hydrates and plumps the skin.

• Alpha-Glucan Oligosaccharide: Supports the skin’s microbiome for a healthier complexion.

These ingredients work together to moisturize, protect, and repair your skin.

How Does This Cream Differ from Other Embryolisse Moisturizers?

Unlike my holy grail and classic Embryolisse Lait-Crème Concentré, which is an all-purpose moisturizer, the Cicalisse SOS Cream is targeted for specific skin concerns like irritation, redness, and post-procedure care. It’s also richer in texture and contains additional restorative actives, making it ideal for times when your skin needs more intensive care.

What Are the Benefits of Using Cicalisse SOS Restorative Cream?

• Soothes irritation: Calms redness and sensitivity with aloe and Vitamin E.
• Deep hydration: Glycerin and almond oil lock in moisture.
• Repairs skin barrier: Strengthens and protects with emollients.
• Promotes healing: Supports recovery for dry or irritated skin.
• Multi-purpose: Suitable for face, body, and post-procedure care.
• Gentle and safe: Hypoallergenic and non-comedogenic for all skin types.
• Non-greasy: Absorbs quickly without residue.
• Affordable: High-quality results at a budget-friendly price.

How Does It Promote Skin Healing and Restoration?

The product forms a protective film over the skin, which aids in reducing moisture loss while allowing the skin to heal. Its mix of glycerin, sweet almond oil, and tocopherol ensures deep hydration and repair.

Can It Help with Specific Skin Concerns Like Dryness or Irritation?

Yes, with its rich emollient base and soothing actives like aloe and almond oil, it’s a lifesaver for dry, flaky, or irritated skin like mine.  It’s particularly great for winter or after exposure to harsh elements, Like if you go skiing or do outdoor sports. 

What Are the Long-Term Benefits of Regular Use?

Over time, regular use this can:

• Strengthen your skin’s natural barrier.

• Improve texture and hydration levels.

• Minimize redness and sensitivity.

How to Use Embryolisse Restorative Cream

• Cleanse First: Start with clean, dry skin to ensure maximum absorption.
• Apply a Small Amount: Use a pea-sized amount and gently massage onto the affected area. It takes a little bit of extra massaging than a thinner creme would. 
• Focus on Problem Areas: Target dry patches, redness, or irritated spots for best results.
• Use Twice Daily: Apply in the morning and evening for optimal hydration and repair.
• Layer Wisely: Use it as the final step in your skincare routine to lock in moisture.
• Pair with Other Products: Safe to use alongside serums, toners, and sunscreens.
• Suitable for All Skin Types: Ideal for sensitive skin but works well for most skin types.
• Body and Face: It can also be used on dry elbows, hands, or even chapped lips.

With consistent use, this product can deliver soothing, hydrating, and restorative benefits effectively.

Is It Suitable for All Skin Types?

Yes, it’s versatile: The formula is designed to work for all skin types, including dry, sensitive, combination, and normal skin.

• Ideal for sensitive skin: Hypoallergenic and non-comedogenic, making it gentle and safe for reactive skin.
• Great for dry skin: Provides deep hydration and repair, perfect for combating dryness and flakiness.
• Oily skin considerations: While suitable, those with very oily skin may find it slightly heavy.
• Patch test recommended: As with any product, testing it on a small area first ensures compatibility with your skin. Don't do what I did with the cleanser always read the labels. 

I personally won't be using this all the time I have combination skin. So it's a bit too heavy for everyday use for me. 

Who Should Use Embryolisse Cicalisse SOS?

If your skin is anything like mine, there are times it just needs a bit of TLC. This cream is made for those moments. If you’ve got sensitive skin that flares up with redness or irritation, Cicalisse feels like a sigh of relief. It’s also brilliant after facials, peels, or even when you’ve gone a bit too heavy on retinol (we’ve all been there). I find it especially handy in winter when my cheeks get sore from the cold wind, but it works just as well dabbed onto little dry patches in summer. If your skin is very oily, you might want to use it more sparingly, but for most skin types it gives a comforting, protective layer.

How I Use & Layer It

I usually apply a thin layer in the evening as the last step in my routine, so it can really get to work overnight. If my skin feels particularly stressed, I’ll use it in the morning too, under SPF. It’s light enough not to pill under makeup but still has that soothing, cocooning feel. You can even just pat it onto areas that need extra care rather than slathering it everywhere. I’ve layered it over niacinamide and hyaluronic acid without any issues, but I tend to avoid using strong acids right before. Think of it as your skin’s safety blanket – especially when the weather or your routine has thrown things off balance

Pros & Cons (Quick Take)

Pros:

• Calms redness and irritation fast

• Gentle enough for sensitive or post-treatment skin

• Affordable compared to many barrier creams

• Multi-use: night cream, spot treatment, or recovery mask

• Doesn’t clog pores (at least in my experience)

Cons:

• Might feel heavy on very oily skin

• Light fragrance won’t suit everyone

• Not really designed as an everyday moisturiser

My Review of Cicalisse SOS Restorative Cream

I have to say I went into this a little biased with my absolute devotion to its sister product and I was not disappointed. This product deserves all the hype it gets. It calmed my very sore inflamed skin after a couple of uses and my skin barrier repaired really quickly after using this.

I just love French skincare and this brand is just a complete winner for my skin. I haven't found another product that can turn things around as quickly as this can. It is heavy and I haven't used it under makeup as I had damaged my skin that badly I was not prepared to put anything other than skincare that would help my situation on my skin.

If you have done something as silly as I did you need to try this out. I think when you also factor in the price of this product being under £10 I can not see a better product on the market for restoring your damaged skin. 

What Are the Best Places to Buy It Online?

You can purchase this from reputable sites like:

• Embryolisse’s official website

• Sephora

• Amazon

• LookFantastic

• Cult Beauty 

I bought mine from Amazon thank goodness for next day prime delivery. 

How Does the Price Compare to Similar Products?

At around £8-£10 for a 40ml tube, it’s reasonably priced compared to high-end restorative products, making it an excellent value for money.

What Are the Most Compelling Reasons to Try This Cream?

• It’s packed with effective ingredients like glycerin and tocopherol.

• It’s suitable for sensitive skin.

• It provides immediate and long-term hydration and repair.

How It Compares to Lait-Crème Concentré