Lipikar Wash AP+ Gentle Foaming Moisturizing Wash
Lipikar Wash AP+ Gentle Foaming Moisturizing Wash
Product Description
Product overview
A dermatologist-developed, soap-free foaming wash that gently cleanses dry to extra-dry, sensitive, and eczema-prone skin — providing clinically demonstrated 24-hour hydration from the very first shower. Enriched with La Roche-Posay Prebiotic Thermal Water, Shea Butter, Niacinamide, and the patented postbiotic Vitreoscilla Ferment, it respects the skin's natural moisture barrier while leaving skin clean, soft, and instantly soothed. Safe for the entire family — including babies as young as 2 weeks.
24-Hour Hydration In-Shower
Clinically demonstrated to provide 24-hour hydration beginning during the wash itself — not just after applying moisturizer.
Texture & feel
SENSORY24-Hour Hydration In-Shower
Clinically demonstrated to provide 24-hour hydration beginning during the wash itself — not just after applying moisturizer.
Barrier-Respecting Cleanse
Soap-free formula helps protect the skin's hydrolipidic film so water exposure during washing doesn't cause trans-epidermal water loss.
Whole-Family Safe
Suitable for babies from 2 weeks old, children, adults, and even patients undergoing chemotherapy (on intact skin, with medical guidance).
National Eczema Association Accepted
Formally accepted by the NEA — meeting independent standards of safety and efficacy for eczema-prone and atopic skin.
Exclusive Postbiotic: Vitreoscilla Ferment
Patented Aqua Posae Filiformis, cultivated in La Roche-Posay Thermal Spring Water, supports the skin's microbiome for long-term barrier resilience.
Sustainably Sourced Shea Butter
Shea Butter is ethically sourced from Burkina Faso, restoring the skin's hydrolipidic film while delivering an immediate soothing sensation.
Safety & compatibility
SAFEContains no retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone, or chemical UV filters. Niacinamide (Vitamin B3) is widely regarded as safe throughout pregnancy and breastfeeding. Consult your dermatologist if in doubt.
Contains Polysorbate 20 and PEG-7 Glyceryl Cocoate — fatty acid esters that may feed Malassezia yeast. As a rinse-off product, risk is reduced, but those with active pityrosporum folliculitis should proceed with caution.
Rated 1/5 on the comedogenic scale. Shea Butter has a comedogenic rating of 0–2; all other key ingredients score 0. Suitable for acne-prone skin when used as a rinse-off cleanser.
Accepted by the National Eczema Association. Clinically and allergy-tested on highly sensitive, eczema-prone skin. Free from soap, parabens, and fragrances — all common eczema triggers.
Contains no drying alcohols or added fragrance. Safe for reactive, sensitized, and rosacea-prone skin types that are particularly vulnerable to these irritants.
Sodium Laureth Sulfate is present but formulated at a low concentration and balanced with conditioning agents (Coco-Betaine, Shea Butter, Glycerin). Clinical testing confirms it does not strip the skin barrier when used as directed.
Gentle enough for use during chemotherapy on intact skin. Always consult your oncologist or dermatologist before use if undergoing treatment.
The ultra-gentle, soap-free formula is safe for delicate newborn skin from as early as two weeks of age, including on the scalp.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSGlycerin ~3–5%Proven
A skin-identical humectant derived from vegetable sources that draws moisture from the environment into the skin. As the second ingredient in this formula, Glycerin forms the backbone of the in-shower hydration claim.
- Mechanism: Hygroscopic molecule that binds water in the stratum corneum, reducing trans-epidermal water loss (TEWL).
- Comedogenic rating: 0 — does not clog pores.
- Safety: Universally regarded as safe; appropriate during pregnancy, breastfeeding, and for infants.
Niacinamide (Vitamin B3) ~1–2%Proven
A water-soluble, multifunctional vitamin that supports ceramide synthesis, soothes inflammation, and helps restore the skin barrier. In a rinse-off cleanser, it is present in a supporting capacity, complementing post-wash moisturization.
- Barrier repair: Increases ceramide production, strengthening the skin's natural protective lipid layer.
- Anti-inflammatory: Reduces redness and reactive skin responses, making it ideal for eczema-prone and atopic skin.
- Brightening: At concentrations of 4–5%, shown to inhibit melanosome transfer; even lower concentrations provide baseline soothing benefits.
Butyrospermum Parkii Butter (Shea Butter) presentProven
Sustainably sourced from Burkina Faso, Shea Butter is a rich emollient packed with fatty acids (oleic, stearic, linoleic) that replenish the skin's hydrolipidic film, reduce water loss, and soothe irritation. A cornerstone of the Lipikar range.
- Emolliency: Creates a protective occlusive film that retains moisture post-rinse.
- Fatty acid profile: High in stearic and oleic acid — naturally moisturizing and compatible with dry skin.
- Comedogenic rating: 0–2 — very low; not a concern in a rinse-off formula.
Vitreoscilla Ferment (Aqua Posae Filiformis) postbioticPromising
An exclusive, patented postbiotic cultivated in La Roche-Posay Thermal Spring Water. This ingredient supports the skin microbiome by encouraging beneficial bacterial diversity — particularly relevant for atopic and eczema-prone skin where dysbiosis is a key driver of inflammation.
- Microbiome support: Promotes a balanced skin microbiome, strengthening the skin's first line of defense.
- Exclusivity: Patented by La Roche-Posay; not available in other brands' formulations.
- Evidence: Internal La Roche-Posay clinical data supports microbiome-balancing action over repeated use.
Mannose tracePromising
A naturally occurring sugar monosaccharide that acts as both a gentle humectant and a prebiotic — selectively feeding beneficial skin bacteria. It contributes to the formula's mild moisturizing and microbiome-supporting profile.
- Humectant: Helps retain moisture within the stratum corneum.
- Prebiotic action: Supports growth of commensal bacteria while not feeding pathogenic strains like Malassezia.
20 ingredients
Aqua/Water, Glycerin, Sodium Laureth Sulfate, PEG-200 Hydrogenated Glyceryl Palmate, Coco-Betaine, Polysorbate 20, Citric Acid, PEG-7 Glyceryl Cocoate, Niacinamide, Acrylates Copolymer, Butyrospermum Parkii Butter/Shea Butter, Cocamide MEA, Disodium EDTA, Glycol Distearate, Mannose, Polyquaternium-11, Sodium Benzoate, Sodium Chloride, Sodium Hydroxide, Vitreoscilla Ferment
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEThis is the first step in both AM and PM routines. Apply moisturizer (ideally Lipikar AP+M or AP+MAX) within 3 minutes of drying to lock in the in-shower hydration.
How to use
HOW TO USEWet Skin with Lukewarm Water
Avoid hot water, which strips the skin's natural oils. Lukewarm water is gentler on the moisture barrier and helps the cleanser lather evenly.
Dispense & Lather in Hands
Pump 1–2 times into wet hands. Work into a light foam before applying to face and/or body. Suitable for both facial and body cleansing in a single step.
Massage Gently onto Skin
Apply to wet skin using gentle circular motions. Do not scrub. The formula is designed to cleanse effectively with minimal friction — important for sensitive and eczema-prone skin.
Rinse Thoroughly
Rinse completely with lukewarm water until the skin is clear of product. Thorough rinsing ensures no surfactant residue remains on the skin.
Pat Dry — Do Not Rub
Gently pat the skin dry with a soft towel. Rubbing can disrupt a compromised moisture barrier, particularly important for eczema-prone skin.
Apply Moisturizer Immediately
Follow within 3 minutes with Lipikar AP+M or AP+MAX cream to seal in the in-shower hydration and maximize 48-hour moisturization. For eczema-prone skin, this step is essential.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You have dry, very dry, or eczema-prone skin
- You need a fragrance-free, soap-free cleanser
- You're washing a baby or young child (2 weeks+)
- Your skin feels tight or stripped after showering
- You want one product for both face and body
- You're pregnant or breastfeeding
- You're undergoing chemotherapy (on intact skin, with medical guidance)
- You have atopic dermatitis or reactive skin
Consider alternatives if:
- You have active fungal acne (pityrosporum folliculitis)
- You want a deep-cleansing formula for oily or acne-heavy skin
- You prefer an oil cleanser or micellar water texture
- You want a product with exfoliating actives (AHA/BHA)
- Your skin is specifically normal-to-oily and you need a lighter formula
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESFormulated specifically for dry to extra-dry skin. Soap-free, glycerin-rich formula cleanses without stripping and provides immediate 24-hour hydration. The gold standard for dry skin cleansing.
NEA-accepted and allergy-tested. Free from all major irritants (fragrance, soap, parabens, alcohol). The Vitreoscilla Ferment postbiotic supports the microbiome — particularly beneficial in atopic dermatitis.
Works well on dry zones (cheeks, arms, legs) and cleanses oily areas without over-stripping. Gentle enough for combination skin on face and body. May not control oil production in the T-zone during summer.
Gentle and effective daily cleanser for normal skin. Will not disrupt a healthy barrier and provides bonus hydration. Those with predominantly non-dry skin may find they don't need the added moisturization.
The moisturizing focus means it won't deep-cleanse excess sebum or treat breakouts. Non-comedogenic and gentle on blemish-prone skin, but those with primarily oily or acne-prone concerns may need a more targeted formula.
Safe from 2 weeks old, including on the scalp. Soap-free, fragrance-free, and dermatologist-tested formula is gentle enough for the most delicate newborn skin. A rare cleanser approved for the whole family.
Results timeline
MONTH 2+Immediate Soothing & Softness
Skin feels noticeably less tight after washing compared to soap-based or stripping cleansers. The in-shower hydration mechanism from Glycerin and Shea Butter is immediately perceptible — skin feels clean but never "squeaky."
~92% noticed softer skin after first useReduced Itchiness & Post-Wash Tightness
Consistent use replaces traditional stripping soaps and reduces the cycle of irritation and inflammation. Eczema-prone users typically notice significantly less itchiness and post-bath flare-ups within the first two weeks.
~80% report less post-wash tightnessImproved Skin Texture & Barrier Resilience
With daily use, the combination of Niacinamide (ceramide synthesis support) and Vitreoscilla Ferment (microbiome balance) contributes to a healthier, more resilient skin barrier. Skin texture feels smoother and less reactive.
~75% notice improved overall skin comfortSustained Hydration & Eczema Management
Long-term use (especially paired with Lipikar AP+M or AP+MAX) is clinically shown to support eczema management and sustained skin barrier health. Flare-up frequency and severity are reduced with a consistent cleanse-and-moisturize regimen.
~85% would recommend as a daily cleanserRatings by platform
14K+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- National Eczema Association accepted — rare distinction
- Truly fragrance-free and soap-free formula
- Safe for the entire family including newborns
- Works as a combined face and body wash
- Clinically demonstrated 24-hour hydration
- Leaves no tight, dry, or stripped feeling after use
- Pregnancy-safe with zero concerning actives
- Patented Vitreoscilla Ferment supports microbiome
- Dermatologist-recommended globally
Criticized
- Contains Polysorbate 20 — caution for fungal acne sufferers
- Price is higher than drugstore body wash alternatives
- Not a standalone solution for very severe eczema (needs a moisturizer)
- 400ml bottle can run out quickly when used on the full body daily
- Pump occasionally dispenses more product than needed
- Contains SLS — some very sensitive users may react
- Lather is gentle and light — those used to foamy washes may miss stronger suds
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPESSoap-free, fragrance-free, and free from all common sensitizers. Shares the gentle, non-stripping philosophy. Lacks Shea Butter, Niacinamide, and Vitreoscilla Ferment, but is one of the cleanest, most minimalist options available. Excellent for the most reactive skin.
Contains ceramides and hyaluronic acid — approaching Lipikar Wash AP+ for barrier support from a different angle. Also NEA-accepted, fragrance-free, and suitable for dry skin. Lacks Shea Butter and the exclusive Vitreoscilla Ferment but comes at a significantly lower price point.
Uses colloidal oatmeal (an FDA-approved skin protectant) instead of Shea Butter and Thermal Water. Fragrance-free and gentle, with good soothing properties for eczema-prone skin. Active ingredient profile differs significantly, but similar end-goal of gentle, non-stripping cleansing.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDELa Roche-Posay Lipikar Wash AP+
Eucerin Skin Calming Dry Skin Body Wash
Storage & shelf life
12 MONTHS12 months after opening. Look for the open-jar symbol on the packaging with "12M" to confirm your specific batch.
Store at room temperature, away from direct sunlight and heat sources. Keep the pump closed between uses to maintain product integrity.
400 ml pump bottle. Hygienic pump dispenser minimizes contamination. A 200 ml travel size and a large 750 ml refill size are also available in some markets.
The 400 ml bottle exceeds carry-on limits. Decant into a travel-size bottle (under 100 ml) or purchase the 200 ml size for air travel compliance.
Frequently asked questions
FAQYes — Lipikar Wash AP+ is considered safe during pregnancy and breastfeeding. The formula contains no retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone, or chemical UV filters, which are the ingredients dermatologists most commonly flag during pregnancy. Niacinamide (Vitamin B3), one of the key actives, is widely regarded as safe throughout pregnancy and nursing. Glycerin and Shea Butter are also universally considered safe. As always, consult your OB-GYN or dermatologist before making changes to your skincare routine during pregnancy.
Use with caution if you have active fungal acne (pityrosporum folliculitis). The formula contains Polysorbate 20 and PEG-7 Glyceryl Cocoate — esters and emulsifiers that may theoretically feed Malassezia yeast. However, because Lipikar Wash AP+ is a rinse-off product, the exposure time is short and real-world risk is significantly reduced compared to leave-on products. Mannose (also present) is actually considered fungal-acne safe. If you have active, ongoing folliculitis, consider alternatives like Vanicream Gentle Body Wash or CeraVe Hydrating Body Wash, which have cleaner FA profiles.
Yes — as a rinse-off cleanser, Lipikar Wash AP+ is compatible with all topical actives including retinol, Vitamin C, AHA (glycolic, lactic acid), and BHA (salicylic acid) applied as leave-on treatments. The Niacinamide in this wash does not interact negatively with these actives. Apply the cleanser first, rinse thoroughly, then apply your actives as usual. In fact, using a non-stripping cleanser like Lipikar Wash AP+ helps support skin tolerance for stronger actives by keeping the moisture barrier intact.
Lipikar Wash AP+ is specifically formulated for dry to extra-dry, sensitive, and eczema-prone skin — for both adults and babies. It is excellent for atopic dermatitis, post-procedure skin, and skin sensitized by retinol or other active treatments. It also works well for normal and combination skin types that want a gentle, non-stripping cleanser. It is less suitable for oily or acne-dominated skin types that require deeper cleansing or oil control. Think of it as the universal gentle cleanser that almost anyone with a compromised or sensitive skin barrier can benefit from.
Many users notice softer, less tight skin after the very first wash. Post-shower tightness and itchiness typically improve noticeably within 1–2 weeks of replacing a conventional soap with Lipikar Wash AP+. More significant benefits — including improved skin texture, reduced barrier reactivity, and reduced eczema flare-up frequency — develop over 3–4 weeks of consistent daily use. For best results, pair with a moisturizer (applied within 3 minutes of towel-drying) such as Lipikar AP+M or AP+MAX.
Lipikar Wash AP+ is the first step in both your AM and PM routines — it replaces your usual cleanser or body wash. Use it in the shower on wet skin, rinse thoroughly, pat dry gently, and immediately apply your leave-on skincare products. For face care, follow with toner (optional), serum, moisturizer, and sunscreen (AM). For body care, follow immediately with a rich body moisturizer — ideally within 3 minutes of patting dry — to seal in the hydration from the wash.
No — Lipikar Wash AP+ is rated 1/5 on the comedogenic scale and is considered non-comedogenic. The key emollient (Shea Butter) has a comedogenic rating of 0–2, and all other ingredients score 0. As a rinse-off product, even the marginally comedogenic ingredients are removed from the skin during washing. The formula is dermatologist-tested and suitable for acne-prone skin when used as directed. It will not clog pores in typical use.
The PAO (Period After Opening) for Lipikar Wash AP+ is 12 months — indicated by the open-jar symbol on the packaging. At typical usage (1–2 pumps per shower for the face, or more for the full body), a 400 ml bottle lasts approximately 2–4 months for full-body daily use, or longer if used solely for facial cleansing. Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight to preserve efficacy throughout the PAO period.
Verdict: La Roche-Posay Lipikar Wash AP+ is one of the most rigorously validated gentle cleansers available — a rare product that is simultaneously accepted by the National Eczema Association, safe for newborns, pregnancy-safe, fragrance-free, and clinically demonstrated to provide 24-hour hydration. The inclusion of Shea Butter, Niacinamide, Glycerin, and the exclusive Vitreoscilla Ferment postbiotic makes it far more than a basic cleanser. It is the foundation of the Lipikar skincare ecosystem and a dermatologist-trusted staple for dry, sensitized, and eczema-prone skin. The only caveats are its caution rating for active fungal acne and its premium price point relative to drugstore alternatives — but for the formulation quality and clinical backing it delivers, it represents excellent value for sensitive and eczema-prone skin.
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 |
Glycerin
Solvent, Perfuming, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Decreasing Agent, Hair Conditioning, Skin Protecting, Denaturant, Skin Conditioning
|
Promotes Wound Healing
Hydrating
|
|
| 3 |
Sodium Laureth Sulfate
Surfactant, Emulsifying, Cleansing, Foaming
|
|
|
| 1 |
Coco-Betaine
Skin Conditioning, Viscosity Controlling, Viscosity Increasing Agent, Antistatic Agent, Hair Conditioning, Sufactant, Foam Boosting
|
|
|
| 3 |
Polysorbate 20
Surfactant, Emulsifying
|
|





