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La Roche-Posay Cicaplast Balm B5+

La Roche-Posay Cicaplast Balm B5+

Product Description

Product overview

Made in France FRENCH BEAUTY

Balm for reactive and irritated skin. Centella asiatica and madecassoside calm inflammation and support barrier repair, while glycerin and shea butter restore hydration. Panthenol accelerates skin recovery. Fragrance-free formula with a dense, occlusive texture designed for compromised skin and post-procedure use.

Fragrance-FreeFungal Acne SafeParaben-FreeSulfate-FreePregnancy Safe
Pregnancy
Safe
Fungal Acne
Safe
Comedogenic
0/ 5
Type
Skincare
Key Active
Madecassoside
Use
AM & PM
Brand
La Roche-Posay
PAO
12 months
Real reviews · YouTube Shorts
Why it's different

Centella-powered repair balm for irritation

Madecassoside and centella asiatica leaf extract work together to reduce redness and support the skin barrier. Panthenol enhances moisture retention, making this balm especially effective after procedures or during active irritation. The formula is free of common irritants like fragrance and essential oils.

01

Texture & feel

SENSORY
Consistency
Rich, dense balm
Absorption
Slow, occlusive
Finish
Satin, non-greasy
Scent
Unscented

Barrier-repair blend

Madecassoside, a purified centella derivative, reduces inflammation at the cellular level. Combined with centella leaf extract, the formula targets barrier compromise and accelerates healing in irritated skin.

Multi-layer hydration system

Glycerin (humectant), shea butter (occlusive emollient), and butylene glycol form a three-part moisture lock. Panthenol enhances water absorption and retention without relying on volatile humectants.

Ferment and prebiotic support

Vitreoscilla ferment and lactobacillus lysate support skin microbiome balance. Polymnia sonchifolia root juice provides additional conditioning without starch irritation.

Post-procedure safe formula

Absence of fragrance, essential oils, and high-volatile actives makes this balm suitable for use after laser, chemical peels, or dermatological treatments. Zinc and manganese gluconates provide mineral support.

Lightweight occlusive finish

Hydrogenated polyisobutene and dimethicone create a breathable occlusive layer that seals in hydration without feeling greasy or suffocating the skin.

Fragrance-free, clean ingredients

Paraben-free and sulfate-free preservative system using phenoxyethanol. No synthetic fragrance, essential oils, or colorants reduces sensitization risk in compromised skin.

02

Safety & compatibility

SAFE
Safe during pregnancy and lactation

All actives (centella, panthenol, glycerin) are non-systemically absorbed and widely used in pregnancy-safe skincare. No retinoids, salicylates, or hormonal ingredients present.

Fungal-acne compatible

Formula avoids yeast-feeding humectants and oils; corn starch acts as a mattifying agent rather than a food source. Safe for dehydrated malassezia-prone skin.

Hypoallergenic fragrance profile

Fragrance-free and free of essential oils, limonene, and linalool. Reduces sensitization risk in reactive or post-procedure skin.

Non-waterproof, not for active sun

This is a repair balm, not a sunscreen. Does not provide UV protection. Use with a dedicated SPF during daytime, especially if skin is compromised.

Compatible with most active layering

Avoid layering under oil-based serums due to silicone content reducing penetration.

Post-laser and post-peel appropriate

Gentle enough for use immediately after professional treatments. Centella and panthenol support accelerated recovery without irritating freshly treated skin.

Silicone-containing formula

Dimethicone and hydrogenated polyisobutene are occlusive silicones. If silicone-free is a priority, this balm is not suitable.

Mild comedogenic risk for acne-prone skin

Rich balm texture may occasionally congeal on very oily skin or cause mild breakouts in severe acne. Best suited for reactive or dehydrated skin rather than actively congested skin.

03

Ingredient breakdown

INCI

Centella Asiatica Leaf Extract Proven

Centella reduces inflammation and supports barrier repair through asiatic acid and madecassoside. Studies show centella leaf extract decreases redness and accelerates healing of irritated or compromised skin. Applied topically, it does not absorb systemically.

  • Mechanism: Reduces inflammatory cytokines and strengthens tight junctions in the stratum corneum
  • Benefit: Accelerates healing in irritated, post-procedure, or atopic skin
  • Research: Widely studied in dermatology for rosacea and eczema support
One of the most evidence-backed soothing actives in skincare.

Madecassoside Proven

Madecassoside is the most bioavailable triterpene extract from centella, responsible for anti-inflammatory and barrier-repair effects. It signals fibroblasts to increase collagen synthesis and reduces trans-epidermal water loss (TEWL) by reinforcing the lipid barrier.

  • Mechanism: Increases procollagen I and III production; reduces inflammatory mediators
  • Benefit: Visibly reduces redness within 1–2 weeks of consistent use
  • Callout: More potent than centella leaf extract alone at equivalent concentrations
The most clinically-proven centella component for barrier repair.

Panthenol Proven

Panthenol (provitamin B5) converts to pantothenic acid in the skin, enhancing moisture retention and skin elasticity. It reduces TEWL and accelerates the healing of minor cuts or irritation by increasing cell turnover rate.

  • Mechanism: Hygroscopic humectant that boosts ceramide and cholesterol synthesis
  • Benefit: Improves hydration and supports skin recovery after irritation or treatments
  • Research: Clinically shown to reduce TEWL by up to 20% in compromised skin
Works synergistically with barrier lipids to restore moisture.

Glycerin Proven

Glycerin is a gold-standard humectant that draws water into the outer layers of skin. It also serves as a skin protectant, forming a hydrophilic layer that reduces irritant penetration and prevents water loss.

  • Mechanism: Hygroscopic molecule that binds up to 1.5× its own weight in water
  • Benefit: Immediate hydration sensation and long-term moisture barrier support
  • Function: Enhances penetration of other hydrating actives while reducing irritant sensitivity

Butyrospermum Parkii (Shea) Butter Supporting

Shea butter is a rich occlusive emollient containing oleic, stearic, and linoleic fatty acids that mimic skin lipid composition. It softens skin texture, reduces TEWL, and provides anti-inflammatory support via plant sterols.

  • Mechanism: Occlusive emollient rich in ceramide-mimicking fatty acids
  • Benefit: Deeply nourishes dry or irritated skin; supports barrier repair
  • Compatibility: Fungal-acne safe; non-comedogenic in typical concentrations

Butylene Glycol Supporting

Butylene glycol is a humectant and preservation booster that draws water into the skin while maintaining product stability. It enhances penetration of actives and creates a slightly tacky feel that aids ingredient adhesion.

  • Function: Hygroscopic humectant; antimicrobial booster
  • Benefit: Improves hydration without the heaviness of pure glycerin
  • Note: Fungal-acne compatible; does not feed malassezia

Zinc Gluconate Supporting

Zinc is a trace mineral essential for skin healing, collagen cross-linking, and inflammatory regulation. Zinc gluconate is a bioavailable form that supports barrier function and reduces transient erythema in irritated skin.

  • Mechanism: Cofactor for collagen synthesis and wound-healing enzymes
  • Benefit: Reduces redness and supports faster recovery from irritation
  • Function: Antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory support

Polymnia Sonchifolia Root Juice Supporting

Yacon root is a prebiotic plant extract rich in fructooligosaccharides (FOS) that feed beneficial skin microbiota. It provides additional hydration and conditioning without starch-based comedogenic risk.

  • Function: Prebiotic humectant; supports skin microbiome balance
  • Benefit: Gentle hydration and texture improvement with minimal irritation risk
  • Note: Non-allergenic; suitable for sensitive and fungal-acne-prone skin

Vitreoscilla Ferment Supporting

Vitreoscilla is a bioferment that produces ceramides and other skin-conditioning metabolites. It strengthens the barrier and supports the skin microbiome, enhancing resilience to irritants.

  • Function: Postbiotic and prebiotic support; natural ceramide production
  • Benefit: Improves barrier robustness and skin microbiota diversity
  • Mechanism: Reduces barrier-related sensitivity over time

Manganese Gluconate Supporting

Manganese is a cofactor for superoxide dismutase (SOD), a key antioxidant enzyme. Manganese gluconate provides mineral support for free-radical protection and collagen stabilization in healing skin.

  • Mechanism: Essential cofactor for antioxidant enzyme activity
  • Benefit: Supports skin recovery and protects against oxidative stress during healing
  • Function: Complementary trace mineral to zinc

34 ingredients

Water, Hydrogenated Polyisobutene, Dimethicone, Glycerin, Butyrospermum Parkii (Shea) Butter, Panthenol, Zea Mays (Corn) Starch, Propanediol, Butylene Glycol, Cetyl PEG/​PPG-10/​1 Dimethicone, Trihydroxystearin, Centella Asiatica Leaf Extract, Polymnia Sonchifolia Root Juice, Zinc Gluconate, Madecassoside, Manganese Gluconate, Alpha-Glucan Oligosaccharide, Silica, Aluminum Hydroxide, Magnesium Sulfate, Mannose, Capryloyl Glycine, Vitreoscilla Ferment, Citric Acid, Trisodium Ethylenediamine Disuccinate, Lactobacillus, Acetylated Glycol Stearate, Maltodextrin, Pentylene Glycol, Polyglyceryl-4 Isostearate, Tocopherol, Pentaerythrityl Tetra-Di-T-Butyl Hydroxyhydrocinnamate, Phenoxyethanol, Titanium Dioxide.

FREE FROM: Synthetic Fragrances · Parabens · Sulfates (SLS / SLES) · Talc · Mineral Oil · Phthalates · Bisphenols (BPA) · PFAS · Retinoids · Hydroquinone · Formaldehyde Releasers · Heavy Metal Pigments · Gluten
04

Where it fits in your routine

STEP 04
1
Cleanser
2
Toner
3
Essence
4
▸ This Treatment
5
Moisturizer
6
Sunscreen

Cicaplast Balm B5+ is a treatment balm best applied as the final step of your PM routine or as a targeted repair treatment AM/PM on compromised areas. Apply after your actives (serums, toners) have fully absorbed—wait 1–2 minutes between steps. Use a small amount (pea-sized) and gently press into irritated zones or apply over the entire face if your barrier is severely compromised. During the day, always follow with a dedicated SPF, as this balm provides no UV protection. If using post-procedure (laser, peel), apply morning and evening until irritation subsides.

05

How to use

4 STEPS
1

Cleanse & tone

Start with clean, slightly damp skin after toner.

2

Dispense 2–3 drops

Drop into palms or directly onto face — a little goes a long way.

3

Pat to absorb

Gently pat into skin until fully absorbed. No need to rub.

4

Layer & seal

Follow with moisturizer to lock it in. Sunscreen the next morning.

06

Who is it for?

FIT CHECK

Perfect for you if

  • You have reactive, irritated, or sensitized skin (rosacea, eczema, dermatitis)
  • You've just had a laser, peel, or professional skin treatment and need a gentle repair balm
  • You experience persistent redness or barrier compromise and want centella-powered support
  • You prefer fragrance-free and paraben-free formulas to minimize irritation
  • You want to layer a rich occlusive over active ingredients (vitamin C, AHA) as a final step
  • You have dehydrated or compromised skin and need serious hydration without active ingredients
  • You want fungal-acne-safe ingredients with soothing and repair benefits

Consider alternatives if

  • You need a lightweight, fast-absorbing daily moisturizer for oily skin
  • You have active acne breakouts and need a non-occlusive formula
  • You want sun protection (this balm is not a sunscreen)
  • You prefer silicone-free skincare exclusively
  • You need a product with active anti-aging actives like retinol or peptides
  • You're looking for a budget-friendly everyday moisturizer; this is a targeted treatment
07

Skin type compatibility

6 TYPES
Dry Skin
Excellent

The rich emollient base (shea butter, glycerin, panthenol) directly targets dehydration and barrier compromise. Occlusive silicones seal in moisture without evaporation, making this an ideal final step for very dry skin.

Oily Skin
Poor

The dense balm texture and silicone content will likely feel heavy and congeal on oily skin. Not recommended unless skin is temporarily irritated or barrier-compromised from treatments.

Combination Skin
Moderate

Can work as a targeted treatment on dry or irritated zones (T-zone would likely feel occlusive). Use sparingly and only on problem areas, or apply exclusively at night to avoid daytime heaviness.

Sensitive Skin
Excellent

Fragrance-free, paraben-free, and formulated with soothing centella and panthenol. Absence of essential oils and common irritants makes this one of the safest choices for reactive skin.

Acne-prone Skin
Moderate

The occlusive formula may trigger congestion on severely acne-prone skin, but it is gentle enough for dehydrated, acne-sensitive skin. Use only on irritated or post-treatment areas; avoid widespread face application.

Mature Skin
Good

Provides deep hydration and barrier support without active anti-aging actives. Pairs well with serums containing peptides or vitamin C. Occlusive finish supports skin firmness through improved hydration.

08

Results timeline

WEEK 8+
Week 1-2

Visible redness reduction

Centella and madecassoside begin calming inflammation. Users typically notice a decrease in redness and a softer, less irritated appearance.

Users frequently reported reduced redness and sensitivity
Week 3-4

Improved barrier resilience

Consistent application strengthens the moisture barrier. Skin feels less reactive to other products and environmental stressors. Hydration visibly improves.

Users frequently noticed smoother, more supple texture
Week 5-8

Sustained calm and clarity

Panthenol and barrier lipids work cumulatively to maintain barrier integrity. Skin texture stabilizes and becomes less prone to reactivity. Makeup applies more evenly.

Users frequently reported sustained improvement in skin resilience
Week 8+

Long-term barrier maintenance

Continued use supports lasting barrier health and reduced sensitivity. This product becomes an effective maintenance step for reactive skin or a recovery tool after professional treatments.

Users frequently continued use as a weekly or bi-weekly treatment step
09

Ratings by platform

3.5K+ REVIEWS
Sephora
4.5
Rating
1,200+
Reviews
Main complaint: Small 40ml size runs out quickly if used as a full-face product; wish there was a larger tube option.
Amazon
4.3
Rating
800+
Reviews
Main complaint: Heavy for daily use on combination skin; works better as a targeted spot treatment or PM-only balm.
Dermstore
4.6
Rating
600+
Reviews
Main complaint: Price is steep for the quantity; requires patience and a light hand to avoid product waste.
YesStyle
4.4
Rating
900+
Reviews
Main complaint: Shipping time and international pricing increase overall cost; consider stocking up to justify the expense.
10

Pros & cons

BALANCED

Praised

  • Centella asiatica and madecassoside are among the most clinically-proven soothing actives
  • Fragrance-free and paraben-free formula minimizes sensitization risk
  • Fungal-acne-safe; does not feed malassezia or contain yeast-feeding humectants
  • Multi-layer hydration (glycerin + butylene glycol + shea butter + panthenol) provides immediate and lasting moisture
  • Post-procedure safe; used by dermatologists after professional treatments
  • Rich, occlusive finish effectively seals the barrier without greasy residue
  • Suitable for pregnancy and lactation with no systemic absorption of actives
  • Versatile as both a daily treatment balm and a recovery tool after irritation

Criticized

  • Dense, occlusive texture may feel heavy on oily or acne-prone skin
  • Small 40ml size limits longevity if used as a full-face nightly product
  • Contains silicones (dimethicone, hydrogenated polyisobutene); not suitable for silicone-free routines
  • Price point is higher than standard moisturizers ($25–35 range for 40ml)
  • No SPF; requires separate sunscreen during daytime application
  • May congeal or pill if applied over certain oil-based serums or occlusives
  • Slow absorption due to occlusive nature; not ideal for layering under makeup or fast morning routines
11

Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)

DUPES
45% Match
COSRX — Advanced Snail 96 Mucin Power Essence
$7-9
Budget Pick

Both prioritize soothing actives and hydration for reactive skin. However, the Snail Essence is a lightweight hydrating toner, not an occlusive balm, making it better for oily or combination skin and significantly cheaper—but lacking the barrier-sealing power of Cicaplast.

70% Match
CeraVe — Moisturizing Cream (tub)
$10-13
Budget Pick

Both feature ceramides, hyaluronic acid, and panthenol for barrier repair. CeraVe is more affordable and widely available, but lacks centella and madecassoside's potent anti-inflammatory effects, making it less targeted for reactive or post-procedure skin.

65% Match
Beauty of Joseon — Dynasty Cream
$16-20
Similar Range

K-beauty barrier-repair cream with fermented ingredients and plant extracts. Shares the soothing, occlusive approach but relies on rice bran and ginseng rather than centella, offering a different sensory profile and slightly lighter texture.

50% Match
The Ordinary — Natural Moisturizing Factors + HA
$4-6
Budget Pick

Ultra-affordable lightweight hydrator with ceramides and hyaluronic acid. Lacks centella, madecassoside, and panthenol's repair depth, and offers minimal occlusion—better for prevention than post-irritation recovery.

12

Comparison with competitors

SIDE-BY-SIDE

Aveeno — Eczema Therapy Balm

$12-15
Key Active Colloidal oatmeal + ceramides
Texture Thick, creamy balm
Size 150ml
Best for Eczema, general dry skin
Fragrance Fragrance-free
Dr. Jart+ — Cicapair Cream
Key Active Centella + cica complex
Texture Lightweight cream-gel
Size 50ml
Best for Reactive, oily, combination skin
Fragrance Fragrance-free
Benton — Aloe BHA Skin Toner
Key Active Aloe, BHA (salicylic acid)
Texture Light, hydrating toner
Size 200ml
Best for Acne-prone, oily, combination skin
Fragrance Fragrance-free
13

Storage & shelf life

12 MONTHS
Period After Opening (PAO)

12 months after opening. Check the small jar symbol on the packaging for the manufacturer-specified PAO. Some brands also print a manufacture date — keep both in mind.

Storage

Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Heat and UV degrade many active ingredients. Keep the cap on when not in use.

Packaging

Standard cosmetic packaging with cap. Re-cap after each use to prevent oxidation of actives.

Travel Friendly

Check container size against TSA / IATA liquids rules — under 100ml is carry-on compatible. Use a leak-proof travel pouch.

14

Frequently asked questions

FAQ

Yes, this balm is considered pregnancy-safe. All key actives—centella asiatica, panthenol, and glycerin—do not absorb systemically and are widely recommended during pregnancy. However, always consult your obstetrician before introducing new skincare. This formula contains no retinoids, salicylates, or hormonal ingredients that would pose concern.

Yes. Corn starch acts as a mattifier rather than a food source. Centella and panthenol support barrier health without feeding malassezia. However, the occlusive texture may still cause temporary congestion in actively breaking-out skin; use as a spot treatment rather than full-face application.

Apply Cicaplast as a final occlusive step after your vitamin C has fully absorbed (wait 1–2 minutes). Do not layer vitamin C under this balm—the silicones will block penetration. If you use vitamin C in the AM, apply Cicaplast as your PM final step. For maximum benefit, use vitamin C AM (with SPF) and Cicaplast PM as your barrier-repair closer.

A pea-sized amount is sufficient for full-face application. Most users report 6–8 weeks of PM-only use, or 3–4 weeks if applying AM and PM. For efficient use, apply to damp skin to allow deeper absorption and make the product stretch further.

The formula is formulated to be minimally comedogenic, but rich balms can occasionally cause congestion on very oily or actively acne-prone skin. Best results occur on reactive, dry, or dehydrated skin. If you have severe active acne, start with a small patch test on your cheek and monitor for 1–2 weeks before full-face application.

Yes, Cicaplast is dermatologist-recommended for post-procedure recovery. Its fragrance-free, paraben-free formula and soothing centella content make it ideal for freshly treated skin. Apply 1–2 times daily starting 24 hours post-treatment (follow your dermatologist's specific instructions) until irritation and redness subside. Always use SPF 30+ the next day.

No, it is not silicone-free. Dimethicone and hydrogenated polyisobutene are occlusive silicones that create the breathable, non-greasy finish. If you prioritize silicone-free skincare, this balm is not suitable. Consider a plant-oil-based balm (jojoba, squalane) instead.

Centella leaf extract contains the full spectrum of beneficial compounds (asiatic acid, madecassoside, asiaticoside). Madecassoside is a purified, more potent triterpene extracted from centella that targets anti-inflammatory and collagen-boosting mechanisms. Together, they provide both broad soothing support and concentrated repair power. Madecassoside alone is clinically stronger but often more expensive.

— Skincarisma verdict
4.2 / 5 ★★★★☆

Verdict: La Roche-Posay Cicaplast Balm B5+ is a fragrance-free, targeted repair balm engineered for reactive, irritated, and barrier-compromised skin. The centella asiatica and madecassoside combination is among the most clinically-validated soothing actives available, supported by a multi-layer hydration system (glycerin, panthenol, shea butter) that seals moisture and accelerates barrier recovery. Results are typically visible within 1–2 weeks: redness subsides, hydration improves, and skin tolerance to other actives increases. The main limitations are its small 40ml size (which depletes in 6–8 weeks of nightly use), premium pricing ($25–35), and rich occlusive texture that may feel heavy on oily or actively acne-prone skin. Additionally, it contains silicones and offers no sun protection, requiring a dedicated SPF during daytime. This balm is the ideal choice for anyone with persistent irritation, barrier dysfunction, or recovery needs post-laser/peel who prioritizes fragrance-free soothing and wants clinically-proven centella power.

Product Overview

question
lightbulb 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.

muscle 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.

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Quick Product Notes

Click on icons for more information
question
lightbulb 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.

muscle 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

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Notable Effects & Ingredients

question
lightbulb 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.

muscle 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!

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Ingredients Related to Skin Types

Click on icons for more information
dry-skin Dry Skin
oily-skin Oily/Acne-Prone Skin
sensitive-skin Sensitive Skin
question
lightbulb 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.

muscle 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.

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Ingredient Safety Breakdown

EWG Health Ratings
Low risk
Medium risk
High risk
Unknown risk
% % % %