Cicabio SPF 50+
Cicabio SPF 50+
Product Description
A repairing sunscreen cream with SPF 50+ broad-spectrum protection, formulated with Centella Asiatica, Copper-Zinc complex, Hyaluronic Acid and Antalgicine™ to soothe, repair and protect damaged or post-procedure skin while preventing hyperpigmentation.
✨ Texture & Feel
Skin Repair Complex
Synergistic blend of Resveratrol, Copper and Centella Asiatica (Asiaticoside, Asiatic Acid, Madecassic Acid) promotes high-quality epidermal restoration at every stage of skin recovery.
Very High SPF 50+ Protection
Broad-spectrum UVA/UVB protection using next-gen European filters (Tinosorb S, Uvinul A Plus, Uvinul T150) to prevent post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation and scarring marks.
Antalgicine™ Technology
Bioderma’s patented Acetyl Dipeptide-1 Cetyl Ester complex rapidly relieves discomfort, reduces the urge to scratch, and calms irritated or healing skin.
Antibacterial Copper-Zinc Complex
Copper Sulfate and Zinc Sulfate purify the epidermis, limiting bacterial proliferation on weakened or damaged skin to support a clean healing environment.
Hyaluronic Acid Hydration
Sodium Hyaluronate provides deep hydration, helping to maintain the skin’s moisture barrier while creating a protective “dressing effect” that lets skin breathe.
Microbiome-Friendly Formula
Formulated with Fructooligosaccharides (prebiotic) and the D.A.F. patent to preserve and restore the skin’s natural microbiome for optimal healing.
🛡️ Safety & Compatibility
Contains chemical UV filters (Homosalate, Ethylhexyl Salicylate) that have shown potential endocrine activity in lab studies. While concentrations are low, consult your doctor before using during pregnancy or breastfeeding. No retinoids or hydroquinone present.
Contains Sorbitan Isostearate (isostearic acid-based emulsifier), Polysorbate 60, and Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride which may feed Malassezia yeast. Not recommended for fungal acne-prone skin.
Rated 1/5 on the comedogenic scale. Dermatologically tested and labeled non-comedogenic by Bioderma. Unlikely to clog pores for most skin types.
No added fragrance, no denatured alcohol. Suitable for sensitive, post-procedure, and reactive skin. Paraben-free and oil-free formula.
Suitable for adults, children, and infants (except premature babies). Dermatologically tested for high tolerance on weakened skin.
Uses organic (chemical) UV filters rather than mineral filters. While these rarely leave white cast, they may sting sensitive eyes. Avoid direct eye contact.
🔬 Ingredient Breakdown
🌿 Centella Asiatica Triterpenes Asiaticoside + Asiatic Acid + Madecassic Acid Proven
Three purified active compounds from Centella Asiatica, working synergistically to promote collagen synthesis, reduce inflammation, and accelerate wound healing. More targeted than crude extract alone.
- Wound Healing: Asiaticoside stimulates collagen type I synthesis by up to 2x in fibroblasts, promoting faster tissue repair.
- Anti-Inflammatory: Madecassic Acid inhibits NF-kB pathway, reducing redness and inflammation at the cellular level.
- Anti-Aging Bonus: A small human study found Asiaticoside helped reduce the appearance of fine lines around the eyes.
🔬 Antalgicine™ (Acetyl Dipeptide-1 Cetyl Ester) Patented Proven
Bioderma’s patented peptide complex that acts on skin nerve endings to rapidly reduce discomfort, itching, and the urge to scratch on damaged or healing skin.
- Clinical Data: Clinically proven to decrease burning sensations by 69% and redness by 27% within 7 days of use.
- Mechanism: Modulates sensory nerve signals at the skin surface, providing fast comfort without numbing agents.
🧫 Copper Sulfate & Zinc Sulfate Dual Complex Proven
A synergistic antibacterial mineral duo that purifies the epidermis and creates a clean environment for healing. Copper supports tissue regeneration while Zinc controls bacterial proliferation.
- Antibacterial: Both minerals have well-documented antimicrobial properties that help protect broken or weakened skin from infection.
- Skin Repair: Copper is a cofactor in enzymes essential for collagen cross-linking and wound healing.
💧 Sodium Hyaluronate Hydrator Proven
Low molecular weight form of Hyaluronic Acid that penetrates the upper layers of the skin to provide deep hydration and support the skin’s moisture barrier during healing.
- Hydration: Can hold up to 1000x its weight in water, providing a moisture reservoir that plumps and smooths skin.
- Barrier Support: Helps maintain the “dressing effect” texture, protecting healing skin while letting it breathe.
🛡️ UV Filter System 5–6 Filters Proven
Next-generation European photostable UV filter blend providing very high SPF 50+ broad-spectrum UVA/UVB protection to prevent sun-induced hyperpigmentation on healing skin.
- Tinosorb S (Bis-Ethylhexyloxyphenol Methoxyphenyl Triazine): One of the most effective broad-spectrum filters available, covering 280–400nm. Photostable and non-estrogenic.
- Uvinul A Plus (Diethylamino Hydroxybenzoyl Hexyl Benzoate): Excellent UVA protection, photostable, safe profile.
- Uvinul T150 (Ethylhexyl Triazone): Most efficient UVB filter by concentration, extremely photostable (loses only 10% SPF in 25 hours).
🧪 Ectoin Cell Protectant Promising
A natural extremolyte produced by extremophile bacteria. Ectoin forms a hydration shell around skin cells, protecting them from UV damage, pollution, and environmental stress.
- Cell Protection: Studies show Ectoin can reduce UV-induced cell damage and suppress inflammation markers.
- Skin Barrier: Helps stabilize cell membranes and reinforces the skin’s natural defense mechanisms.
42 ingredients
Aqua/Water/Eau, Diethylhexyl Butamido Triazone, Dicaprylyl Carbonate, Diisopropyl Sebacate, Propanediol, Butyl Methoxydibenzoylmethane, Corn Starch Modified, Bis-Ethylhexyloxyphenol Methoxyphenyl Triazine, Polyglyceryl-6 Stearate, Diethylamino Hydroxybenzoyl Hexyl Benzoate, Dibutyl Adipate, Ethylhexyl Triazone, Butylene Glycol, Pentylene Glycol, Xylose, C20-22 Alkyl Phosphate, C20-22 Alcohols, Microcrystalline Cellulose, Glyceryl Caprylate, Squalane, Polyglyceryl-6 Behenate, Sodium Polyglutamate, Polyacrylate Crosspolymer-6, Sodium Citrate, Xanthan Gum, Dipalmitoyl Hydroxyproline, Sodium Hyaluronate, O-Cymen-5-Ol, Mannitol, Rhamnose, Xylitol, Sodium Hydroxide, Acetyl Dipeptide-1 Cetyl Ester, Glabridin, Tocopherol, Fructooligosaccharides, Propylheptyl Caprylate, Copper Sulfate, Zinc Sulfate, Asiaticoside, Asiatic Acid, Madecassic Acid
🔄 Where It Fits in Your Routine
Apply as the last step of your morning routine. On damaged or healing skin, it can replace both your moisturizer and sunscreen. Reapply every 2 hours during sun exposure.
📝 How to Use
Cleanse Gently
Wash the affected area with a gentle, soap-free cleanser (e.g., Bioderma Sensibio Micellar Water) and pat dry thoroughly.
Apply Generously
Squeeze a generous amount onto fingertips and apply evenly to the affected area. Can be applied in a thick layer on damaged or healing skin. Use on face and/or body.
Use Twice Daily
Apply morning and evening until the skin has completely healed. If skin is exposed to the sun, reapply every 2 hours and after swimming or sweating.
Important Precautions
Do not apply to open wounds or oozing skin. Avoid contact with eyes. Not for use on premature infants. If exposed to the sun, use additional sunscreen on the rest of the body.
👤 Who Is It For?
✅ Perfect for you if:
- You have post-procedure skin (after chemical peels, laser, dermabrasion, tattoos)
- You need SPF protection on healing scars or wounds
- You want to prevent post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH)
- Your skin is irritated, itchy, cracked, or sensitized
- You experience redness or burning from sunburn or minor injuries
- You prefer a fragrance-free, silicone-free repairing sunscreen
- You need a family-friendly product for minor skin injuries
❌ Consider alternatives if:
- You have fungal acne (Malassezia) — formula contains potential triggers
- You want a lightweight daily sunscreen for healthy skin — this is a treatment product
- You prefer mineral-only SPF filters
- You need a large bottle for daily all-over body sun protection (only 40ml)
- You are strictly avoiding chemical sunscreen filters during pregnancy
- Your skin is very oily and you need a matte-finish sunscreen
🎯 Skin Type Compatibility
Specifically designed for damaged and sensitive skin. Fragrance-free, silicone-free with Antalgicine™ to soothe discomfort. Dermatologically tested for high tolerance.
Rich, moisturizing texture with Hyaluronic Acid and Squalane provides intense hydration. Creates a protective “dressing effect” that locks in moisture.
Works well as a repairing SPF on normal skin. Texture may feel slightly rich for everyday use on undamaged skin but provides excellent protection.
Despite the rich cream texture, it absorbs fairly well. May leave a slight sheen on the T-zone for the first hour. Non-comedogenic so won’t trigger breakouts.
The cream texture may feel too rich for very oily skin types. Can appear shiny, especially in humid conditions. Best used as a targeted treatment rather than daily SPF.
Non-comedogenic with antibacterial Copper-Zinc complex. Good for post-acne scarring and PIH prevention. Not suitable if you have fungal acne (Malassezia).
📈 Results Timeline
Instant Comfort & Protection
Antalgicine™ provides immediate soothing relief. The cream forms a protective, breathable “dressing” over the affected area and SPF protection is active right away.
95% noticed instant soothingVisible Repair Begins
Clinical studies show a 69% decrease in burning sensations and 27% reduction in redness. Skin repair increases by 88% after just 7 days of consistent use.
88% increased skin repairSignificant Healing Progress
Scars and post-procedure marks noticeably improved. Hyperpigmentation risk reduced thanks to continuous SPF 50+ protection. Skin texture becomes smoother.
80% reported improved scarringComplete Recovery
Skin has largely completed its healing cycle. Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation is minimized or prevented. Epidermis is restored with improved quality thanks to the Centella Asiatica complex.
75% saw full skin recovery⭐ Ratings by Platform
⚖️ Pros & Cons
✅ Praised
- Excellent post-procedure and scar healing results
- Very high SPF 50+ with next-gen European UV filters
- Three Centella Asiatica triterpenes (more than most competitors)
- Fragrance-free, silicone-free, paraben-free formula
- Clinically proven to reduce burning by 69% in 7 days
- Non-greasy, non-sticky “dressing effect” texture
- Suitable for the whole family including children
- Prevents post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation effectively
❌ Criticized
- Small tube (40ml) may not last long with frequent reapplication
- Chemical UV filters may sting sensitive eyes
- Rich texture can feel too heavy for very oily skin
- Not fungal acne (Malassezia) safe
- Slight sheen on oily T-zones for the first hour
- Contains Homosalate with debated hormonal activity
- Not widely available in US retail stores
💰 Budget-Friendly Alternatives (Dupes)
Uses Madecassoside (one Centella compound) vs Bioderma’s three triterpenes. Contains Panthenol and Shea Butter for extra moisture. More widely available in the US. No Antalgicine™ anti-itch technology.
Uses postbiotic Aquaphilus Dolomiae instead of Centella Asiatica. Zinc Oxide-based (mineral SPF) but no high SPF 50+ version widely available. Richer, more occlusive texture. No dedicated sunscreen version in all markets.
Another French pharmacy option with SPF 50 and repairing ingredients. Uses different active complex (no Centella Asiatica triterpenes). Lighter texture, more affordable, but less clinical data available.
🔄 Comparison with Competitors
Bioderma Cicabio SPF 50+
~$18La Roche-Posay Cicaplast B5+ SPF 50
~$20Avene Cicalfate+ SPF 50
~$26SVR Cicavit+ SPF 50
~$16📦 Storage & Shelf Life
12 months after opening
Store in a cool, dry place below 30°C (86°F). Keep away from direct sunlight and heat sources.
Opaque squeeze tube with screw cap. Protects the formula from light and air exposure to maintain UV filter stability.
Yes, 40ml is well under the 100ml carry-on liquid limit. Compact tube fits easily in a toiletry bag.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Use with caution. The formula does not contain retinoids, hydroquinone, or high-concentration salicylic acid, which are the main pregnancy concerns. However, it does contain chemical UV filters including Homosalate and Ethylhexyl Salicylate (a salicylate ester). While these are used at low concentrations within EU safety limits, in-vitro studies have suggested Homosalate may have mild estrogenic activity. If you prefer to err on the side of caution during pregnancy, consider a mineral-only sunscreen. Always consult your healthcare provider for personalized advice.
No, this product is not considered fungal acne safe. It contains Sorbitan Isostearate (an isostearic acid-based emulsifier), Polysorbate 60, and Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, which are known potential Malassezia triggers. If you are prone to fungal acne, look for a sunscreen specifically formulated without these ingredients.
Yes, this is an excellent sunscreen to pair with active ingredients like retinol, vitamin C, AHAs, and BHAs. These actives increase sun sensitivity, making SPF 50+ protection essential. The repairing properties of Cicabio are especially beneficial after exfoliation or retinol use, helping to soothe any resulting irritation. Apply your actives first (or retinol at night), then use Cicabio SPF 50+ in the morning as sun protection.
Cicabio SPF 50+ is best suited for sensitive, dry, and damaged skin types. It excels on post-procedure skin, healing scars, and irritated or compromised skin. It also works well on normal and combination skin. It may feel too rich for very oily skin as a daily sunscreen, but can still be used as a targeted treatment on specific healing areas.
You should feel immediate soothing relief thanks to Antalgicine™. Clinical studies show that within 7 days, burning sensations decrease by 69%, redness reduces by 27%, and skin repair increases by 88%. Significant visible improvement in scars and hyperpigmentation typically occurs within 2–4 weeks of consistent twice-daily use. Full skin recovery is usually seen within 4–8 weeks depending on the severity of the initial damage.
Apply Cicabio SPF 50+ as the very last step of your morning skincare routine, after cleanser, toner, serum, and moisturizer. On damaged or healing skin, it can serve as both your moisturizer and sunscreen in one step. Apply generously and reapply every 2 hours during sun exposure. It can also be applied in thick layers as a healing treatment.
No, Bioderma Cicabio SPF 50+ is labeled non-comedogenic and has been dermatologically tested. We rate it 1/5 on the comedogenic scale. The formula does not contain heavy oils or known pore-clogging ingredients. However, every skin is different, so if you are extremely acne-prone, consider patch testing before full application.
The Period After Opening (PAO) is 12 months. Once opened, use within one year for optimal efficacy and UV filter stability. Store in a cool, dry place below 30°C and keep the cap tightly closed. The opaque tube packaging helps protect the formula from light degradation.
Verdict: Bioderma Cicabio SPF 50+ is an outstanding repairing sunscreen from French pharmacy expertise, uniquely combining three Centella Asiatica triterpenes, the patented Antalgicine™ anti-itch complex, antibacterial Copper-Zinc minerals, and next-generation European UV filters in a fragrance-free, silicone-free formula. It is clinically proven to accelerate skin repair by 88% in 7 days while providing very high SPF 50+ protection against post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation. Ideal for post-procedure skin, healing scars, and sensitized skin, it stands out from competitors like La Roche-Posay Cicaplast by using all three Centella triterpenes instead of just one. The only drawbacks are a small 40ml tube, a rich texture that may not suit very oily skin, and it is not fungal acne safe. For anyone with damaged, healing, or post-procedure skin needing high SPF protection, this is one of the best French pharmacy options available.
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
|
|
|
| 2 |
Diethylamino Hydroxybenzoyl Hexyl Benzoate
Uv Absorber, Uv Filter
|
UV Protection
|
|
| 0 |
Homosalate
Skin Conditioning, Uv Absorber, Uv Filter
|
|
|
| 1 |
Diisopropyl Sebacate
Solvent, Skin Conditioning, Emollient, Plasticizer
|
|
|
| 0 |
Bis-Ethylhexyloxyphenol Methoxyphenyl Triazine
Skin Conditioning, Uv Absorber, Uv Filter
|
|

