Serum Layering Order and Stability: Mixing AKA Pitera with Specialist Serum B3 for Sensitive, Oily Skin

Question

I have sensitive and oily skin, and I aim for moisture and brightness. I use several serums and need guidance on application: Can I pre-mix AKA Pitera (Galactomyces Ferment Filtrate) directly into the Hyalu B3 Serum (Specialist Serum B3) bottle by shaking them together for use? What is the recommended layering order for the following four serums to achieve moisturizing and brightening results for sensitive and relatively oily skin? ANR Serum Base Specialist Serum B3 Hyalu B5 Serum H.A Filler Serum Which of these four serums should be avoided around the delicate eye area?

MySkinRecipes Expert · Accepted Answer

1. Mixing AKA Pitera with Specialist Serum B3

Recommendation: It is generally not recommended to pre-mix large quantities of AKA Pitera (Galactomyces Ferment Filtrate, ID 357) with Specialist Serum B3 (ID 127411) by shaking them together in the bottle.

Stability and Preservation: Both products are formulated with specific preservatives and stability requirements. Mixing them can dilute the preservative system, potentially leading to microbial growth or separation over time.
Best Practice: The safest and most effective method is to layer the products. If you wish to combine them for immediate use, you can mix a small, pea-sized amount of each product in the palm of your hand right before application.

Note for Sensitive/Oily Skin:

Specialist Serum B3 (ID 127411) contains Glycolic Acid (2%) and Niacinamide (5%). Glycolic Acid is an AHA that provides exfoliation and brightening but can be irritating for sensitive skin, especially when used daily. Niacinamide at 5% is excellent for oil control and brightening but can also cause flushing in some sensitive users.
AKA Pitera (ID 357) is generally soothing and hydrating, which can help counteract the potential irritation from the B3 Serum.

2. Recommended Layering Order for Serums

The best layering order follows the rule of Thinnest to Thickest consistency, or Actives/Acids first, then Hydration/Soothing, then Barrier Repair.

For your objective (Moisture, Brightening, Sensitive/Oily Skin), the recommended order is:

Specialist Serum B3 (ID 127411): Apply first. This is the clearest and contains the strongest active acid (Glycolic Acid) for brightening and exfoliation. Use 2-3 times a week initially, not daily, due to the Glycolic Acid.
H.A. Filler Serum (ID 127667): Apply second. This liquid gel provides initial hydration and contains HEPES, a mild exfoliant/penetration enhancer.
Hyalu B5 Serum (ID 126127): Apply third. This clear gel is highly soothing, containing high concentrations of Panthenol (B5, 3%) and Madecassoside (1%). It is excellent for calming sensitive skin and boosting moisture.
ANR Serum Base (ID 31602): Apply last. This cloudy liquid gel is the richest, containing Bifida Ferment Lysate and Squalane to support the skin barrier and lock in moisture.

(If using AKA Pitera, apply it right after cleansing/toning, or mix it with the Hyalu B5 Serum in your palm.)*

3. Serum to Avoid Around the Eyes

The serum that should be used with the most caution around the delicate eye area is:

Specialist Serum B3 (ID 127411): Due to the presence of Glycolic Acid (2%), which is an Alpha Hydroxy Acid (AHA), it can be too harsh for the thin, sensitive skin around the eyes.

The other serums (ANR, Hyalu B5, H.A. Filler) are primarily focused on hydration and barrier repair, making them generally suitable for the eye area, but always perform a patch test first. The ANR Serum Base (ID 31602) is particularly well-suited for the eye area as it contains ingredients often found in eye repair products (like Bifida Ferment Lysate and Squalane).