Anthelios XL Dry Touch Gel Cream SPF 50+
Anthelios XL Dry Touch Gel Cream SPF 50+
Product Description
Product overview
A lightweight, mattifying gel-cream sunscreen with very high broad-spectrum SPF 50+ UVA/UVB protection. Formulated with patented XL-Protect filtering technology and AIRLICIUM micro-particles that absorb sebum, sweat, and humidity for an all-day dry-touch matte finish. Enriched with La Roche-Posay Thermal Spring Water and glycerin to soothe and hydrate sensitive skin without leaving white marks.
XL-Protect Filtering Technology
Patented broad-spectrum filter system with 8 UV filters including Tinosorb S, Mexoryl XL, and Avobenzone for superior UVA/UVB and infrared protection.
Texture & feel
SENSORYXL-Protect Filtering Technology
Patented broad-spectrum filter system with 8 UV filters including Tinosorb S, Mexoryl XL, and Avobenzone for superior UVA/UVB and infrared protection.
AIRLICIUM Anti-Shine Technology
Micro-particles absorb up to 150x their volume in sebum, sweat, and humidity, keeping skin matte all day long.
La Roche-Posay Thermal Spring Water
Rich in selenium and minerals, this soothing antioxidant water calms and protects sensitive skin.
Glycerin + Vitamin E
Provides lasting hydration and antioxidant protection without a greasy feel. Keeps skin comfortable under sun exposure.
Safety & compatibility
SAFEContains chemical UV filters (Homosalate, Octocrylene, Ethylhexyl Salicylate) that some dermatologists advise avoiding during pregnancy. Homosalate has shown weak estrogenic activity in vitro. Consider switching to a mineral-only sunscreen during pregnancy. Consult your doctor.
Not fungal acne safe. Contains several triggers including Stearic Acid, Stearyl Alcohol, PEG-8 Laurate, Isopropyl Lauroyl Sarcosinate, and C12-15 Alkyl Benzoate that may feed Malassezia yeast.
Rated 1/5 on the comedogenic scale. Brand-tested non-comedogenic and suitable for acne-prone skin. Will not clog pores for the vast majority of users.
Tested under dermatological control on sensitive and sun-intolerant skin. Formulated with La Roche-Posay Thermal Spring Water. 91% top-allergen-free.
Excellent to layer over retinol or vitamin C treatments. High SPF 50+ protection is critical when using photosensitizing actives like AHAs, BHAs, or retinoids.
Contains UV filters (Tinosorb S, Mexoryl XL, Uvinul T 150) not yet FDA-approved. This European formulation is widely available in Europe, Asia, Australia, and the Middle East.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSTinosorb S (Bemotrizinol) Up to 10%Proven
One of the most effective broad-spectrum UV filters available. Covers the full UVA and UVB range (280-400 nm) and is extremely photostable, meaning it does not degrade in sunlight. Also helps stabilize other less stable filters like Avobenzone.
- Study: A 2007 comparative study of 18 sunscreen agents ranked Tinosorb S as the most effective UV absorber at maximum permitted concentration.
- Range: Peak protection at 310 nm and 345 nm, covering both UVB and UVA.
Mexoryl XL (Drometrizole Trisiloxane) Up to 15%Proven
A patented L'Oréal UV filter that provides broad-spectrum protection across both UVA (344 nm) and UVB (303 nm) ranges. Highly photostable and frequently paired with Ecamsule (Mexoryl SX) for maximum UVA defense.
- Source: Approved in EU, Canada, Australia, and Japan. Patented by L'Oréal Group.
- Benefit: Photostable and synergistic with other UV filters for enhanced protection.
Avobenzone (Butyl Methoxydibenzoylmethane) Up to 5%Proven
The most widely used UVA filter globally. Provides strong protection in the UVA range (310-400 nm). Stabilized in this formula by Tinosorb S and Octocrylene to prevent photodegradation.
- Range: Peak absorption at 357 nm, providing deep UVA-I protection.
- Note: Globally approved and used worldwide including the US.
Uvinul T 150 (Ethylhexyl Triazone) Up to 5%Proven
A new-generation UVB filter delivering the highest photostable UVB absorption of all currently available filters. Oil-soluble, odorless, and colorless — ideal for elegant formulations.
- Range: Peak protection at 314 nm in the UVB range (280-320 nm).
- Allowed: Up to 5% worldwide except US and Canada.
Glycerin ~2-5%Proven
A powerful humectant that draws moisture into the skin. Keeps skin hydrated and comfortable under SPF, preventing the tightness or dryness sometimes caused by mattifying sunscreens.
- Function: Humectant that attracts and retains water in the epidermis.
- Safety: One of the most well-tolerated skincare ingredients. Safe for all skin types.
Tocopherol (Vitamin E) <1%Proven
A potent antioxidant that neutralizes free radicals generated by UV exposure. Helps protect the skin's lipid barrier and works synergistically with sunscreen filters to reduce photodamage.
- Research: Studies confirm Vitamin E enhances SPF performance and reduces UV-induced skin damage when combined with UV filters.
35 ingredients
Aqua/Water, Homosalate, Silica, Octocrylene, Ethylhexyl Salicylate, Butyl Methoxydibenzoylmethane, Ethylhexyl Triazone, Bis-Ethylhexyloxyphenol Methoxyphenyl Triazine, Drometrizole Trisiloxane, Aluminum Starch Octenylsuccinate, Glycerin, Pentylene Glycol, Styrene/Acrylates Copolymer, Potassium Cetyl Phosphate, Dimethicone, Perlite, Propylene Glycol, Acrylates/C10-30 Alkyl Acrylate Crosspolymer, Aluminum Hydroxide, C12-15 Alkyl Benzoate, Caprylyl Glycol, Disodium EDTA, Inulin Lauryl Carbamate, Isopropyl Lauroyl Sarcosinate, PEG-8 Laurate, Phenoxyethanol, Stearic Acid, Stearyl Alcohol, Terephthalylidene Dicamphor Sulfonic Acid, Titanium Dioxide [Nano], Tocopherol, Triethanolamine, Xanthan Gum, Zinc Gluconate
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEApply as the very last step of your skincare routine, before makeup. Sunscreen always goes on last to form a protective barrier. Can double as a mattifying primer under makeup.
How to use
HOW TO USEApply Generously
Use approximately 2 finger-lengths (about 1/4 teaspoon) for your face and neck. Apply evenly just before sun exposure.
Blend & Let Set
Gently spread across your face in outward motions. Allow 30 seconds for the dry-touch finish to set. The gel-cream melts into skin leaving no white marks.
Reapply Every 2 Hours
Re-apply frequently and generously, especially after swimming, sweating, or towel-drying. Very water resistant but not waterproof.
Layer Under Makeup (Optional)
Works beautifully as a mattifying primer. Wait 1-2 minutes after application before applying foundation or powder for best results.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You have oily or combination skin that gets shiny throughout the day
- You want very high SPF 50+ protection without a greasy or heavy feel
- You need a sunscreen that works well under makeup
- You live in a hot, humid climate or spend time outdoors
- You use active ingredients (retinol, AHAs, vitamin C) and need strong UV protection
- You have sensitive, sun-intolerant skin and want dermatologist-tested protection
Consider alternatives if:
- You have fungal acne — this formula contains several Malassezia triggers
- You are pregnant or breastfeeding and prefer mineral-only UV filters
- You have very dry skin — the mattifying effect may feel too drying without extra moisturizer
- You prefer a dewy, glowy finish rather than matte
- You need a US-available sunscreen — key filters are not FDA-approved
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESThis sunscreen was designed for oily skin. AIRLICIUM and Perlite absorb excess sebum for an all-day matte finish without clogging pores. 87% of users report no oily feel.
Balances well across different face zones. Controls shine in the T-zone while glycerin keeps drier areas hydrated and comfortable.
Fragrance-free (non-perfumed version), tested on sensitive skin, and enriched with Thermal Spring Water. Patch test recommended for very reactive skin.
The mattifying formula may feel too drying for very dry skin types. Layer over a hydrating serum or moisturizer for best results.
Non-comedogenic and oil-free. Great for general acne, but not suitable if you specifically have fungal acne (malassezia folliculitis) due to FA triggers.
Results timeline
3-6 MONTHSInstant Matte Finish & UV Protection
AIRLICIUM technology melts into skin on contact, delivering immediate shine control and a dry-touch feel. SPF protection begins right away.
87% noticed matte finish after applicationOil Control & Comfort
Skin stays matte and comfortable even in heat and humidity. No greasy breakthrough or pilling. Works well under makeup throughout the morning.
86% reported no shine after applicationReduced Sun Damage & Fewer Breakouts
Consistent daily use prevents new UV-induced hyperpigmentation and protects against premature aging. Users with acne-prone skin report fewer breakouts compared to heavier sunscreens.
84% reported cleaner-looking skin with daily useVisible Anti-Aging & Pigmentation Prevention
Long-term UVA protection prevents formation of fine lines, dark spots, and photoaging. Antioxidants (Vitamin E, Thermal Spring Water) provide cumulative protective benefits.
Clinically validated across 31 in-vivo studiesRatings by platform
5K+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Outstanding matte, dry-touch finish — feels invisible on skin
- Very high SPF 50+ with superior UVA protection (PPD 28)
- No white cast, no greasy residue, no stickiness
- Excellent under makeup — works as a mattifying primer
- Broad-spectrum with 8 UV filters including next-gen Tinosorb S & Mexoryl XL
- Very water resistant — great for beach, sports, and humid climates
- Fragrance-free version available for sensitive skin
- Recommended by 60,000+ dermatologists worldwide
Criticized
- Small tube (50ml) feels expensive for the amount of product
- Not fungal acne safe — contains several Malassezia triggers
- Can feel drying on dry skin types, especially in winter
- Contains chemical UV filters — not ideal for pregnancy
- Not available in the US due to non-FDA-approved filters
- Some users report slight pilling when layered over heavy moisturizers
- Contains Homosalate which has some safety concerns at high doses
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPESVery similar dry-touch matte formula with oil control for oily skin. Contains licorice extract for soothing. Slightly less advanced UV filter system but excellent everyday protection at a lower price.
Lightweight fluid with broad-spectrum SPF 50+. Less mattifying than Anthelios XL and not specifically designed for oily skin, but offers solid UV protection at a fraction of the price.
Another French pharmacy dry-touch sunscreen with broad-spectrum protection. Lighter fluid texture. Less mattifying power than the AIRLICIUM technology but fragrance-free and well-tolerated.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDEStorage & shelf life
12 MONTHS12 months after opening
Store in a cool, dry place below 25°C (77°F). Keep away from direct sunlight and heat to preserve UV filter efficacy.
Squeezable tube with screw cap. Opaque packaging protects photosensitive UV filters from light degradation.
Yes, 50ml — well under the 100ml carry-on liquid limit for flights.
Frequently asked questions
FAQCaution is advised. This sunscreen contains chemical UV filters including Homosalate, Octocrylene, and Ethylhexyl Salicylate. While no direct harm has been proven in topical application, Homosalate has shown weak estrogenic activity in laboratory studies. Many dermatologists recommend switching to a mineral-only sunscreen (zinc oxide or titanium dioxide) during pregnancy and breastfeeding as a precaution. Always consult your healthcare provider for personalized advice.
No, this product is not fungal acne safe. It contains several ingredients that can feed Malassezia yeast, including Stearic Acid, Stearyl Alcohol, PEG-8 Laurate, Isopropyl Lauroyl Sarcosinate, and C12-15 Alkyl Benzoate. If you have fungal acne (pityrosporum folliculitis), look for sunscreens specifically formulated without fatty acids, esters, and polysorbates.
Yes, absolutely. In fact, high SPF sunscreen is essential when using photosensitizing actives like retinol, tretinoin, AHAs (glycolic acid, lactic acid), BHAs (salicylic acid), and vitamin C. Apply your actives first (serum step), let them absorb, then apply this sunscreen as your last skincare step. The SPF 50+ and high UVA protection (PPD 28) make it an ideal companion for active-heavy routines.
This sunscreen is specifically designed for oily, combination, and acne-prone skin types. The AIRLICIUM technology and Perlite micro-particles absorb excess sebum for an all-day matte finish. It also works well for sensitive skin (fragrance-free, dermatologist-tested). For very dry skin, it may feel too mattifying — consider layering it over a hydrating serum or choosing the Anthelios Hydrating Cream version instead.
UV protection and the matte finish are immediate upon application. For long-term benefits like reduced hyperpigmentation, prevention of new dark spots, and anti-aging effects (wrinkle prevention), consistent daily use over 4-12 weeks will show noticeable improvements. Sunscreen is a long-term preventive product — cumulative daily protection is the key to visible results over time.
Sunscreen is always the last step of your skincare routine and the first step before makeup. A typical order would be: Cleanser, Toner, Serum/Treatment, Moisturizer, then this Sunscreen. If you wear makeup, wait 1-2 minutes after sunscreen application, then apply your foundation or powder on top. It works as an excellent mattifying primer.
No, this sunscreen has a comedogenic rating of 1 out of 5 (very low risk). It is officially tested and labeled as non-comedogenic by La Roche-Posay. The oil-free, dry-touch formula with Perlite and Silica helps absorb excess oil rather than contributing to it. Clinical studies on 55 subjects confirmed the product does not cause breakouts. However, individual sensitivities vary, so patch testing is always a good practice.
The Period After Opening (PAO) is 12 months. Once opened, use within one year for maximum UV filter efficacy. Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and temperatures above 25°C. Sunscreen filters can degrade over time, so do not use expired product. The 50ml tube typically lasts 1-2 months with daily face application at the recommended amount.
Verdict: La Roche-Posay Anthelios XL Dry Touch Gel Cream SPF 50+ is one of the best mattifying sunscreens available in Europe and beyond. Its advanced XL-Protect filter system with 8 UV filters (including Tinosorb S and Mexoryl XL) delivers exceptional UVA/UVB protection (PPD 28), while the AIRLICIUM technology keeps oily and combination skin shine-free all day. The non-comedogenic, fragrance-free formula is dermatologist-tested on sensitive skin and works beautifully under makeup. Its only drawbacks are a small 50ml tube, lack of fungal acne safety, and chemical UV filters that may concern pregnant users. For oily and combination skin types seeking the gold standard in European sun protection with a true matte finish, this remains a top-tier choice backed by 25+ years of clinical research and recommended by over 60,000 dermatologists worldwide.
Product Overview
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.
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
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.
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
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.
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
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.
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
|
|
|
| 0 |
Homosalate
Skin Conditioning, Uv Absorber, Uv Filter
|
|
|
| 0 |
Silica
Absorbent, Abrasive
|
|
|
| 3 |
Octocrylene
Uv Absorber, Sunscreen Agent, Uv Filter
|
UV Protection
|
|
| 4 |
Ethylhexyl Salicylate
Uv Absorber, Uv Filter
|
UV Protection
|








