Product of the Month: La Roche-Posay Cicaplast Gel B5
With the roller-coaster weather in NYC this November—fluctuating between warmth with the AC on and chill with the heat cranked up—my skin has needed a hydrating product that can keep up. Enter La Roche-Posay Cicaplast Gel B5, which has become a staple in my routine this month. This lightweight gel formula provides all the protective and reparative benefits of the Cicaplast line without the richness of a balm, making it ideal for layering and daily use when I want a breathable barrier.
Why Cicaplast Gel B5 Works So Well
As a dermatologist, I value the science behind La Roche-Posay’s formulations. Cicaplast Gel B5 is an incredibly versatile option for sensitive, dehydrated, or compromised skin, thanks to a few key ingredients:
Panthenol (Vitamin B5): Known for its calming and reparative properties, panthenol helps skin retain moisture and provides a soothing layer, perfect for preventing dryness from fluctuating indoor and outdoor temperatures.
Madecassoside: Derived from Centella Asiatica, madecassoside is a known powerhouse for barrier repair, calming inflammation, and supporting skin renewal—ideal for skin that’s been exposed to harsh weather. This is a super exciting ingredient that I’m so excited to see in up-and-coming skincare.
Silicone Polymers: These create a light, breathable layer that locks in moisture and acts as a protective barrier against environmental stressors without clogging pores or feeling heavy. This unique feature makes the Gel B5 feel almost weightless on the skin.
Hyaluronic Acid: Though not the central ingredient, hyaluronic acid provides additional moisture-binding support, especially in winter’s dry air.
How to Use Cicaplast Gel B5 in Your Routine
Here’s where Cicaplast Gel B5 shines: it can slot into various points of your skincare routine depending on your skin’s needs. Here’s how I recommend using it:
1. After Cleansing and Active Serums: Use Cicaplast Gel B5 as a protective layer after applying any serums or treatments. It’s lightweight enough to follow up with a moisturizer if you need more hydration.
2. As a Primer: This gel works beautifully as a makeup primer, especially for sensitive or redness-prone skin. The silicone polymers create a smooth base without clogging pores.
3. After Moisturizer: For extra dry or irritated skin, apply Cicaplast Gel B5 after your moisturizer as a barrier-boosting final step. This creates an occlusive seal that locks in moisture, perfect before facing cold or windy weather.
4. Spot Treatment: Use it as a calming spot treatment on areas of sensitivity or redness. It’s also great for soothing after mild irritations or treatments, like post-extractions or after dermaplaning.
Comparable Products
For those interested in high-end alternatives, here are some comparable products that offer similar barrier-protective and soothing benefits:
- Dr. Jart+ Cicapair™ Tiger Grass Serum: An excellent option for barrier support and calming redness, but with a higher price point. Like Cicaplast Gel B5, it contains Centella Asiatica, known for its soothing properties.
- First Aid Beauty Ultra Repair Hydrating Serum: Packed with soothing and hydrating ingredients, this serum works similarly to Cicaplast Gel B5 as a lightweight layer of hydration and protection.
- Skinceuticals Phyto Corrective Gel: Known for its soothing and anti-inflammatory properties, it’s a good alternative for sensitive skin and redness but is more premium.
Final Thoughts
La Roche-Posay Cicaplast Gel B5 has become my November hero product for its lightweight feel and powerful reparative properties, helping my skin adapt to New York’s unpredictable weather. Whether your skin is feeling tight from dry indoor heating or irritated from the cold, this gel offers effective hydration and protection without the heaviness of a traditional balm. It’s a great option for anyone looking to reinforce their skin barrier on a daily basis without the price tag of high-end alternatives.