Cicaplast Soothing Face and Body Balm B5
Cicaplast Soothing Face and Body Balm B5
Product Description
Product overview
La Roche-Posay Cicaplast Baume B5 is a multi-purpose soothing balm by French pharmacy icon La Roche-Posay, formulated with 5% Panthenol, Madecassoside, Shea Butter and a unique copper-zinc-manganese mineral complex to repair a compromised skin barrier, calm irritation and hydrate dry, cracked or chapped skin on face, body and lips.
Barrier Repair
Helps restore a compromised skin barrier after retinoids, chemical peels, lasers or windburn.
Texture & feel
SENSORYBarrier Repair
Helps restore a compromised skin barrier after retinoids, chemical peels, lasers or windburn.
Deep Hydration
Glycerin and Shea Butter provide long-lasting moisture for dry, chapped and cracked skin.
Soothes Irritation
Madecassoside calms redness, itchiness and inflammation in sensitive or reactive skin.
Family-Friendly
Gentle enough for babies from 1 week old, including diaper rash; accepted by the National Eczema Association.
Safety & compatibility
SAFEContains no retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone or chemical sunscreens. Widely recommended for sensitive pregnancy skin.
Free from fatty acid esters, polysorbates and fermented ingredients that typically feed malassezia yeast.
Formulated to minimize pore-clogging risk; rated 1/5 on the comedogenic scale.
Works beautifully with retinol, tretinoin, vitamin C, AHAs and BHAs to buffer irritation.
Suitable for post-procedure use, chemotherapy-affected skin and children over 1 week old.
Rich occlusive texture may feel heavy; best applied as a targeted treatment rather than all-over moisturizer.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSPanthenol (Pro-Vitamin B5) 5%Proven
The hero ingredient and namesake of the balm. A humectant that binds water, penetrates into deeper skin layers and converts into pantothenic acid, supporting the skin's natural repair process.
- La Roche-Posay: Brand confirms 5% concentration in Cicaplast Baume B5.
- Clinical research: Panthenol has been shown to stimulate fibroblast proliferation, enhance wound healing and reduce transepidermal water loss (TEWL).
- Anti-inflammatory: Studies show it can reduce irritation caused by other ingredients like fragrance or chemical sunscreens.
Madecassoside ~0.2%Proven
An isolated active molecule from Centella Asiatica (Cica/Tiger Grass). Calms redness and inflammation while supporting collagen synthesis and skin repair.
- Seppic (manufacturer) in-vivo study: Used at 0.2%, Madecassoside reduces redness and peeling in light atopic dermatitis and itching in psoriasis-prone skin.
- La Roche-Posay clinical study: 5% Vitamin C combined with 0.1% Madecassoside showed measurable anti-aging effects.
- UV protection: Recent research indicates it may help prevent UV-induced inflammation.
Shea Butter (Butyrospermum Parkii) ~5-8%Proven
A rich, naturally-derived emollient sustainably sourced from Burkina Faso. Restores the hydrolipidic film, softens skin and seals in moisture.
- Fatty acid profile: Rich in oleic and stearic acids plus vitamins A and E for antioxidant support.
- Dermatology: Clinically shown to improve xerosis (dry skin) and soothe eczema-prone skin.
- Barrier function: Reduces TEWL and supports the skin's natural lipid matrix.
Zinc + Copper + Manganese Gluconate Complex TracePromising
La Roche-Posay's signature mineral trio with antibacterial, sebum-regulating and wound-healing properties. Each mineral acts during a different phase of the skin repair process.
- Zinc Gluconate: Antibacterial and sebum-regulating; supports wound healing.
- Copper Gluconate: Promotes cellular regeneration and collagen synthesis.
- Manganese Gluconate: Works synergistically with zinc and copper in skin repair.
Dimethicone + Hydrogenated Polyisobutene HighProven
The second and third ingredients — a semi-occlusive silicone blend that forms a breathable protective barrier to lock in moisture without suffocating the skin.
- Dermatology: Semi-occlusive films reduce TEWL by up to 30% without blocking the skin's normal function.
- Texture: Gives the balm its signature smooth, non-greasy slip.
Glycerin HighProven
A classic humectant that draws water from the air and deeper skin layers into the stratum corneum.
- Gold standard humectant: Decades of research support its role in hydration and barrier support.
- Synergy: Works alongside Panthenol, Butylene Glycol and Propanediol for multi-layered hydration.
23 ingredients
Water, Hydrogenated Polyisobutene, Dimethicone, Glycerin, Butyrospermum Parkii Butter, Panthenol, Butylene Glycol, Aluminum Starch Octenylsuccinate, Propanediol, Cetyl PEG/PPG-10/1 Dimethicone, Tristearin, Zinc Gluconate, Madecassoside, Manganese Gluconate, Magnesium Sulfate, Disodium EDTA, Copper Gluconate, Acetylated Glycol Stearate, Polyglyceryl-4 Isostearate, Sodium Benzoate, Phenoxyethanol, Chlorhexidine Digluconate, CI 77891.
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEApply as the final step at night for overnight repair, or use as a targeted spot treatment over actives. In the morning, a thin layer can be used under SPF on irritated patches.
How to use
HOW TO USECleanse & Dry
Apply to clean, dry skin. Avoid the immediate eye area and broken or infected skin.
Take a Pea-Sized Amount
Warm between fingertips. A little goes a long way — too much can cause a white cast or pilling.
Apply Where Needed
Pat over the whole face as a repair balm, or press onto dry patches, chapped lips, windburn, diaper rash or post-procedure skin.
Slug or Seal (Optional)
For overnight barrier repair, apply a generous layer as the final step after serums and moisturizer.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- Your skin barrier is compromised (tight, stingy, red, flaky)
- You use retinol / tretinoin and need a buffer
- You have eczema-prone, atopic or sensitive skin
- You've had a peel, laser or microneedling procedure
- You deal with windburn, chapped lips or cracked hands
- You want a family-safe balm (babies 1 week+)
- You're pregnant and need a truly safe moisturizer
Consider alternatives if:
- You have very oily skin and dislike rich textures
- You want something lightweight for daytime under SPF
- You prefer silicone-free formulations
- You need active anti-aging ingredients (retinol, peptides)
- You have a known silicone sensitivity
- You wear heavy makeup daily (may cause pilling)
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESRich emollient texture with Shea Butter and semi-occlusive silicones provides deep, long-lasting hydration for even very dry skin.
Fragrance-free, hypoallergenic formula with Madecassoside is designed specifically for reactive, irritated and compromised skin.
Works well on dry zones; consider using only on patches rather than all-over if the T-zone is oily.
Non-comedogenic but rich; best used as a spot treatment on irritated areas rather than a daily all-over moisturizer.
Non-comedogenic, fungal-acne safe and contains antibacterial Zinc Gluconate — ideal for calming post-breakout redness.
Results timeline
2-4 WEEKSInstant Comfort & Relief
Skin feels soothed, softened and protected within minutes. Stinging and tightness are visibly reduced.
92% noticedRedness & Flaking Subside
Visible redness from retinoids, peels or windburn starts to calm; flaky patches become smoother.
84% noticedBarrier Feels Stronger
Skin tolerates actives better, feels less reactive and looks healthier with consistent nightly use.
76% noticedFull Barrier Repair
Chronic dryness, eczema patches and post-procedure redness significantly improve; skin feels resilient.
68% noticedRatings by platform
38K+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Rapidly calms redness, stinging and irritation
- Excellent for slugging and post-retinoid nights
- Fragrance-free and hypoallergenic
- Dermatologist and paediatrician-approved
- Multi-purpose: face, body, lips, hands
- Accepted by the National Eczema Association
- A little goes a long way — tube lasts months
Criticized
- Thick, rich texture not ideal for oily skin
- Leaves white cast if over-applied
- Can pill under makeup or sunscreen
- Contains silicones (dealbreaker for some)
- Pricier than basic drugstore alternatives
- Squeeze tube gets harder to use at the end
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPESAlso uses 5% Dexpanthenol as its hero active and is widely used for barrier repair and diaper rash. Less complex formula without Madecassoside or the mineral complex, but delivers similar soothing results for a fraction of the price.
Petrolatum-based with ceramides and Panthenol. More occlusive and greasier than Cicaplast but excellent for slugging, cracked lips and hands. Less elegant texture, stronger occlusive seal.
Another French pharmacy cica cream with Copper-Zinc Sulfate complex and Avène Thermal Spring Water. Slightly less occlusive and features a different soothing system (Postbiotic + C+ Restore complex).
K-beauty take on cica with full Centella Asiatica extract. Lighter texture suited for daytime wear; better under makeup but less intensely reparative than Cicaplast.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDE
Bioderma Cicabio Repairing Cream
Dr. Jart+ Cicapair Tiger Grass Cream
Storage & shelf life
12 MONTHS12 months after opening (12M symbol on packaging)
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Keep cap tightly closed.
Hygienic squeeze tube — minimises product contamination and air exposure.
Yes — the 40ml size is TSA-compliant and cabin-approved; 100ml for home use.
Frequently asked questions
FAQYes. The formula contains no retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone, chemical sunscreens or essential oils — ingredients usually avoided during pregnancy and nursing. Its fragrance-free, hypoallergenic composition (widely recommended by dermatologists for sensitive pregnancy skin) makes it one of the safest barrier-repair balms for expectant and nursing mothers. As always, check with your healthcare provider before introducing any new skincare.
Yes, it is considered fungal-acne safe. The formula does not contain the fatty acids, esters, polysorbates or fermented ingredients (like Galactomyces or Lactobacillus ferment) that typically feed malassezia yeast. The main emollients are silicones (Dimethicone, Hydrogenated Polyisobutene) and Shea Butter, which are generally well-tolerated by people with fungal acne.
Absolutely — this is actually one of its most popular uses. Many dermatologists recommend layering Cicaplast on top of (or sandwiched around) retinol, tretinoin, vitamin C serums and AHA/BHA exfoliants to buffer irritation and prevent peeling. It does not deactivate these actives; it simply provides a soothing, hydrating barrier on top. For very sensitive skin, try the "sandwich method": thin layer of Cicaplast → active → Cicaplast again.
It performs best on dry, sensitive, eczema-prone, post-procedure or compromised skin. Combination and acne-prone skin can use it as a targeted spot treatment on irritated patches or post-breakout redness. Oily skin types may find the full-face application too rich and are better off using it only where needed or swapping to the lighter Cicaplast Gel B5.
Most people feel immediate comfort — stinging, tightness and discomfort usually calm down within minutes of application. Visible improvements in redness and flaking typically appear within 1 to 3 days of consistent use. Full barrier repair for chronic issues like eczema patches or post-procedure skin usually takes 2 to 4 weeks of nightly application.
Apply it as the final step of your night routine, after cleansing, toning, serums and moisturizer, to seal in everything and support barrier repair overnight. It can also be used as a spot treatment any time during the day on dry patches, chapped lips, windburn or irritated areas. If applying in the morning, use a thin layer on targeted spots only and wait a few minutes before layering sunscreen.
No. It is officially non-comedogenic and rates 1/5 on the comedogenic scale. It also contains Zinc Gluconate, which has antibacterial and sebum-regulating properties. That said, the rich texture may feel heavy on oily skin, so apply sparingly if you're acne-prone and use it more as a targeted repair treatment than a daily all-over moisturizer.
The Period After Opening (PAO) is 12 months, as indicated by the "12M" symbol on the packaging. Thanks to its hygienic squeeze-tube design and preservative system (including Phenoxyethanol and Chlorhexidine Digluconate), it maintains stability well. Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and always close the cap tightly after use.
Verdict: La Roche-Posay Cicaplast Baume B5 has earned its cult status for good reason. With clinically-backed 5% Panthenol, calming Madecassoside, nourishing Shea Butter and a signature copper-zinc-manganese mineral complex, it's one of the most reliable barrier-repair balms on the market — dermatologist-recommended, family-friendly, pregnancy-safe and endorsed by the National Eczema Association. It shines brightest for dry, sensitive, post-procedure, eczema-prone or actives-compromised skin. The only trade-offs are its rich texture (less ideal for very oily skin or daytime makeup wear) and the presence of silicones. If you're looking for a fuss-free, multi-purpose first-aid balm your whole family can use, this is as close to a universal staple as skincare gets.
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
Anti-Aging from 1 ingredient(s):
Brightening from 1 ingredient(s):
Promotes Wound Healing from 4 ingredient(s):
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.
Ingredient Safety Breakdown
Product ingredient list
| EWG | CIR | Ingredient Name & Cosmetic Functions | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 |
Water
Solvent, Skin Conditioning
|
|
|
| 1 |
Hydrogenated Polyisobutene
Emollient, Skin Conditioning, Viscosity Controlling, Viscosity Increasing Agent
|
|
|
| 3 |
Dimethicone
Skin Conditioning, Emollient, Antifoaming Agent, Skin Protecting
|
|
|
| 2 |
Glycerin
Solvent, Perfuming, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Decreasing Agent, Hair Conditioning, Skin Protecting, Denaturant, Skin Conditioning
|
Brightening
Promotes Wound Healing
Hydrating
|
|
| 0 |
Butyrospermum Parkii Butter
Skin Conditioning
|
Hydrating
|