What is it about French pharmacies that make them so good? Certainly, la pharmacie has the advantage that it's home to some of the industry’s most well-loved products and brands.
One notable standout is La Roche-Posay, much lauded for its expertise in sensitive skin, as well as its range of innovative, high-protection sun creams that not only feel like a second skin, but also suit every concern, tone and age range. While the brand's entire line is suitable for sensitive types, for those feeling especially fragile and irritated, there’s little that can match the healing prowess of La Roche-Posay's Cicaplast line. The original Cicaplast Baume B5 has long been a firm favourite with dermatologists and – alongside its newer iterations, like the Cicaplast B5 Soothing Repairing Spray – is currently trending, as new users discover just how much this classic cream helps with irritated and dehydrated skin. So popular is it, that more than one tube is sold every minutes.
What is the Cicaplast Baume B5?
Barrier repair may be a hot topic in beauty, but French brand La Roche-Posay has been caring for skin with velvet gloves since its inception 40 years ago. While you’ll find clinically proven active ingredients such as retinol and vitamin C in its product range, each formula is thoroughly tested to be kind on sensitive skin types.
The Cicaplast balm began its journey as ‘Cicaplast – Epidermal Repair Accelerator’ in 2005, launched with the aim to speed up scar repair and provide skin-barrier protection. As a company that prides itself on innovation and proven efficacy, a clinical study on the original Cicaplast was conducted in 2008 that showed just how well-tolerated the formula is on sensitive skin types. Three years later, the Cicaplast Baume B5 – a rich, creamy moisturiser – launched.
What’s in the Cicaplast Baume B5 formula?
The two key ingredients to know are madecassoside and panthenol. The former is derived from the centella asiatica plant, which has the ability to calm inflammation, soothe irritation and encourage skin healing. It’s also packed with antioxidants to protect against environmental aggressors. Often shortened in the skincare world to 'cica' (hence the product's name), Cicaplast Baume B5 was one of the first products to highlight the benefits of centella asiatica, which can now be found in many skin-soothing formulations.
Meanwhile, panthenol – which derives from vitamin B5 – works hard to improve redness and is a humectant that draws in moisture to help keep hydration levels in check. The Cicaplast Baume B5 formula also contains the antibacterial agents zinc and manganese which, according to consultant dermatologist Dr Justine Hextall, "help to protect against infection", along with a prebiotic complex to balance the skin's microbiome and "support a healthy skin barrier". To minimise risk of irritation, the formula is free from fragrance, lanolin and artificial colouring.
How does Cicaplast Baume B5 work?
"It's this unique combination of skin-soothing ingredients, humectants, emollients and a prebiotic complex that makes this balm so effective," explains Dr Hextall. Essentially, the formulation of Cicaplast Baume B5 creates an ideal environment for skin to heal itself, all while providing a barrier that soothes and hydrates a dry, compromised complexion. "What stands out for me is how quickly this product starts to repair the skin," says Dr Hextall. "Studies show changes within an hour of application, as well as long-lasting hydration."
Who is Cicaplast Baume B5 for?
Everyone can benefit from La Roche-Posay's Cicaplast range. It’s made for all, including babies above three months, those prone to skin conditions such as acne and eczema, and even people undergoing cancer treatments (the brand developed this touch-free spray for skin that is too tender for contact). "It's excellent for treating post-radiotherapy skin," says Dr Hextall. The cream is also an essential for post-procedure skin that tends to be extra reactive and fragile. Additionally, the multipurpose formula works to prevent nappy rash, dry patches, itchiness and minor wounds such as those caused by mosquito bites.
How to use Cicaplast Baume B5
"There are so many ways to use this balm," says Dr Hextall. "It can be applied to superficial burns and abrasions; it can be used on dry and irritated skin; and it will act as an excellent soothing overnight skin treatment to boost hydration."
For those experiencing aggravated skin, Dr. Hextall recommends a straightforward routine. "Simply apply it after a gentle and hydrating cleanser to help repair a weakened skin barrier on the face or body. It can be used at any time of day," she tells Bazaar. It’s also useful as a targeted treatment on affected areas and as a rich moisturiser for parched skin. If blemishes are a bugbear, a tiny amount goes a long way in minimising the redness and soothing painful spots. It’s also great for adding extra glow under make-up as it imparts a dewy sheen, rather than a greasy finish.
A lesser known use, according to Dr Hextall, is for cyclists. "I recommend the balm to a lot of my patients who cycle. In warm weather especially, the trauma of clothing rubbing skin, heat and moisture can combine to cause irritation. Cicaplast is the perfect barrier cream to apply to any areas of friction before cycling."
It also works brilliantly to reduce scarring, says Dr Hextall, and she recommends, "always popping it in your suitcase as it can reduce redness and irritation after bites, and has anti-microbial benefits, so it will also soothe any post-sun redness."
What’s new in the Cicaplast range?
Following the success of the hero Cicaplast Baume B5, La Roche-Posay launched a lip treatment, hand salve, cleanser, spray and a lightweight serum to improve hydration (tests were done in various climates for good measure) and maintain a strong skin barrier. Like everything else in the Cicaplast range, the serum is especially good for soothing delicate, post-procedure skin and those prone to sensitivities. It’s also a great alternative to the original cream for anyone who prefers lighter textures, especially in the summer months. Simply layer it underneath sunscreen or a lightweight moisturisers for sensitivity relief and lasting hydration.
La Roche-Posay Cicaplast Baume B5 Lips
La Roche-Posay Cicaplast Balm
La Roche-Posay Cicaplast B5 Anti-Bacterial Cleansing Wash
La Roche-Posay Cicaplast B5 Face Serum
La Roche-Posay La Roche-Posay Cicaplast Baume B5 Spray
