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Byrdie / Kevin Liang
It’s admittedly hard for any skincare brand to distinguish itself in a market where there are zillions of brands—and more launching daily. But La Roche-Posay is that rare unicorn, a cult classic that dermatologists love, consumers can’t get enough of, and that’s known for established hero products and innovative newbies alike. What’s more, the products are all super affordable (particularly as compared to their counterparts that boast similar types of ingredients) and you can usually get them at the drugstore. Oh, and it’s a must-have for anyone with sensitive skin.
“La Roche-Posay products are allergy-tested, non-comedogenic, and clinically studied to demonstrate efficacy and safety, and most are well-tolerated, even by people with sensitive skin,” explains Dr. Devika Icecreamwala, a dermatologist in Berkeley, CA.
There are plenty of La Roche-Posay goodies to choose from, but we wanted to show the best of the best. We conducted hours of research to find the best La Roche-Posay products on the market, evaluating each choice based on their benefits and active ingredients. We also tried out a few products in our everyday lives. After consulting a dermatologist and considering dozens of products, we landed on these top picks.
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48-hour hydration
Goes on smoothly
Clinically shown to reduce dry, rough skin
Feels greasy to some
One of our favorite body moisturizers of all time, this is also a must-have for Icecreamwala. She lauds it for being extremely hydrating yet never sticky (although some reviewers disagree, saying their skin felt a little greasy after application). However, if you want even more moisture, it also comes in a thicker balm variant.
It's one of the only creams we can put on and get dressed right after. It hydrates for up to 48 hours with ingredients such as shea butter, glycerin, and dimethicone (an emollient that seals in moisture, protecting the skin), while niacinamide helps reduce hyperpigmentation. The formula can be used on the face or body, and we love that it has earned the National Eczema Association's Seal of Approval, per the point of being good for sensitive skin.
Who It’s For
Dry and eczema-prone skin types will love this ultra-hydrating body moisturizer, but we would recommend it to just about everyone.
Active Ingredients: Niacinamide, ceramides, shea butter | Skin Type: Extra dry | Size: 6.7, 13.5 oz | SPF: No | Cruelty-Free: No
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Gentle cleanses with glycerin
Has antioxidant properties
Mild, refreshing scent
Contains fragrance
“This gentle cleanser is perfect to use at night, effectively removing dirt, oil, and makeup,” says Icecreamwala. Despite its cleansing prowess (it even breaks down long-wearing foundation formulas), it won’t strip your skin. One of the cleansing ingredients, poloxamer, is so delicate that it can be used as a contact solution. Our one complaint is that it contains fragrance, which can be an irritant for some sensitive skin types. That was a little surprising to us considering it’s a product designed for sensitive skin.
Who It’s For
If you have sensitive skin, this micellar water is a great option for gentle daily cleaning.
Active Ingredients: Micelles, poloxamer | Skin Type: Sensitive | Size: 13.5 oz | Cruelty-Free: No
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Dermatologist-tested
Soothing and restoring properties
Protects cracked skin
May cause breakouts for some
One tube of this multi-tasker is sold every 15 seconds in European pharmacies. Multi-tasker is somewhat of an understatement to describe it because it truly can do it all. A combo of panthenol (a form of vitamin B5 and an effective hydrator), shea butter, and glycerin makes it super soothing and nourishing. It is perfect to dab onto any irritation—rashes, burns, blisters, bug bites, and even diaper rash.
We especially love that it’s also the star of a viral TikTok beauty hack, doubling as a great makeup primer and highlighter thanks to the dewy sheen it imparts. Some reviewers found it caused breakouts, so use the formula sparingly until you know how it will impact your skin.
Who It’s For
This hydrating balm is the multitasking hero that those with dry or irritated skin need in their bag.
Active Ingredients: Panthenol, shea butter, glycerin | Skin Type: Dry, irritated | Size: 0.05 oz | SPF: No | Cruelty-Free: No
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Highly concentrated formula
Minimal ingredients
Intense hydration
Pump functionality could be better
Icecreamwala says this serum is a good choice for those battling rosacea (and for the record, she’s not the first derm who’s recommended it to us for this purpose). It touts ambophenol, an ingredient that helps constrict blood vessels to visibly reduce redness, fast, along with the brand’s unique thermal spring water, full of skin-soothing minerals. Our only complaint with this product is that the pump applicator can be a bit finicky.
Who It’s For
If rosacea and redness are an issue for you right now, this calming serum is the product to try.
Active Ingredients: Ambophenol, thermal spring water | Skin Type: Dry, sensitive, redness-prone | Size: 1.35 oz | SPF: No | Cruelty-Free: No
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Allergy and dermatologist-tested
48-hour hydration
Maintains a protective skin barrier
Feels heavy to some
A tried-and-true classic, this is one of those simple, no-frills moisturizers that everyone should have on hand at all times. It’s a gentle yet effective, oil-free formula that relies on ceramides (lipids that create a healthy skin barrier), glycerin, and niacinamide to deliver moisture without ever feeling greasy. A universal crowd-pleaser, it’s great for all skin types. However, if you gravitate towards gels or light moisturizers, this rich cream might be too heavy for your preferences.
Who It’s For
This non-clogging, nourishing moisturizer will give dry skin types a protective dose of hydration that lasts for days.
Active Ingredients: Niacinamide, ceramide-3, glycerin | Skin Type: Dry, sensitive | Size: 2.5 oz | SPF: No | Cruelty-Free: No
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Broad-spectrum UV protection
Rigorously tested for skin tolerance
Defends against free radicals
May leave a white cast
This is the latest addition to the Roche-Posay line-up and we can’t get enough of it. Along with plenty of offerings for sensitive skin, LRP is also well-known for its extensive portfolio of sunscreen options, including mineral sunscreens, which create a physical barrier on the skin to protect against UV rays. Mineral sunscreens like this one are ideal for those with sensitive or acne-prone skin but are somewhat notorious for being drying or even chalky. That’s not the case here, thanks to the addition of hyaluronic acid that ensures this formula hydrates for up to 12 hours. But like most mineral sunscreens, it can leave a bit of a white cast, especially on those with deeper skin tones.
Who It’s For
If you prefer mineral sunscreens, you’ll love this hydrating option with hyaluronic acid.
Active Ingredients: Titanium dioxide 5.5%, zinc oxide 10.0% | Skin Type: Dry, sensitive | Size: 1.7 oz | SPF: Yes | Cruelty-Free: No
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Intense UV protection
Soft, matte finish
Lightweight
Thick formula can be hard to apply evenly
Those who prefer chemical sunscreen formulations (which use filters to transform UV rays absorbed by the skin into heat) will love this makeup-skincare hybrid. On the makeup side of things, this primer instantly blurs the look of fine lines and prominent pores and helps foundation go on smoothly and more evenly.
On the skincare side, you get that oh-so-important daily dose of (non-pore-clogging) SPF. The only downside is that it can be hard to apply. Reviewers noted the thick texture of the primer didn’t glide on as easily as they hoped.
Who It’s For
This primer and sunscreen-in-one is the perfect, protective base for flawless makeup.
Active Ingredients: Avobenzone 3%, homosalate 10%, octisalate 5%, octocrylene 5%, oxybenzone 6% | Skin Type: All | Size: 1.35 oz | SPF: Yes | Cruelty-Free: No
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Smooths texture
Absorbs fast
Fights blemishes with two heavy-hitting actives
Can be drying to some
The ‘duo’ in the name refers to a combination of anti-inflammatory, anti-microbial benzoyl peroxide (it contains a 5.5% concentration of this acne-fighting organic acid) plus exfoliating lipo-hydroxy acid (a derivative of salicylic acid). The former calms down red, inflamed blemishes while the latter keeps clogged pores at bay, a perfect recipe for clear skin.
Unlike many other benzoyl peroxide-containing products, Icecreamwala notes that this one isn’t overly drying thanks to the inclusion of hydrating glycerin. That being said, dry skin types may need to follow application with a non-clogging moisturizer.
Who It’s For
If you’re grappling with acne and blemishes, this anti-inflammatory, exfoliating product will help clear your complexion, fast.
Active Ingredients: Benzoyl Peroxide 5.5% | Skin Type: Acne-prone | Size: 0.6, 1.35 oz | SPF: No | Cruelty-Free: No
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Can use alone or with moisturizer
Gently exfoliates with glycolic acid
Allergy-tested
Reviewers note it has an unpleasant smell
Another newbie, this is a must-have for anyone battling dark spots or hyperpigmentation. Along with the 10% concentration of exfoliating and brightening glycolic acid, there’s also tranexamic acid in the mix, a lesser-known though highly effective spot-fading ingredient.
You can use it solo or as a booster mixed into your favorite moisturizer and, in true brand fashion, it’s cleared for sensitive skin. Some reviewers didn’t love the smell of this one, but that’s easy to overlook for results this good.
Who It’s For
Anyone with hyperpigmentation and dark spots will see the benefits from using this skin-brightening formula.
Active Ingredients: Glycolic acid, tranexamic acid, vitamin B5 | Skin Type: Sensitive | Size: 1 oz | SPF: No | Cruelty-Free: No
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Absorbs quickly
Leaves skin soft
Has a healthy dose of skin brightening vitamin C
Smell is unpleasant to some
The hard truth of the matter is that it’s hard to find an affordable, effective vitamin C serum at the drugstore—consider this the exception to that rule. Not only does it contain a potent dose of skin-brightening vitamin C (and ascorbic acid, the most effective kind, at that), but it also has salicylic acid to help keep pores clear too, great for anyone who is dealing with wrinkles and pimples. Bonus points for the addition of neurosensine, a soothing ingredient that’s great for sensitive skin.
Who It’s For
This formula boasts brightening and clearing properties, making it a great pick for those with blemishes and/or fine lines.
Active Ingredients: Ascorbic acid, salicylic acid, neurosensine | Skin Type: All | Size: 1 oz | SPF: No | Cruelty-Free: No
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Leaves skin feeling comfortable
Helps skin retain essential moisture
Not greasy
Doesn't remove makeup well
If micellar water is great for those with sensitive skin, then this cleanser is the one for anyone with normal to oily skin. It boasts that thermal spring water the brand is famous for, and gives a deeper clean, without stripping your skin's natural moisture and/or compromising your skin barrier, explains Icecreamwala. That’s because it’s free from sulfates (detergents that can irritate skin) and touts skin-strengthening ceramides, a rare, moisturizing ingredient in foaming face wash formulas. It’s not the most effective face wash for removing makeup, so you may find you need to add that step to your skincare routine.
Who It’s For
This face wash deep cleans without stripping moisture, making it an ideal cleanser for oily skin types.
Active Ingredients: Prebiotic thermal water, ceramides | Skin Type: Oily, sensitive | Size: 6.7, 13.5 oz | SPF: No | Cruelty-Free: No
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Hydrates with two types of hyaluronic acid
Anti-aging benefits
Vitamin B5 helps restore the skin barrier
Feels a little sticky to some
This is no ordinary hyaluronic acid serum. It contains two different types of hyaluronic acid—one with a larger molecular weight and one smaller. That means the two molecules can penetrate the skin at various layers, upping the hydrating power of this formula. It also contains hydrating vitamin B5 and that unique La Roche-Posay mineral spring water we mentioned before. The only downside is that some reviewers found the formula a little sticky.
Who It’s For
Those with dry skin will love the hydrating, skin barrier-repairing effects of this hyaluronic acid-packed serum.
Active Ingredients: Hyaluronic acid, vitamin B5, thermal spring water | Skin Type: All | Size: 1 oz | SPF: No | Cruelty-Free: No
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Doesn't leave a white cast
Protects against UVA and UVB rays
Oil-free
Can look shiny on oily skin types
We all know sunscreen is essential, but finding an affordable one without a white cast can be a feat in itself. We love this one, which has SPF 60 protection, is oil free, and blends in seamlessly without leaving a chalky residue or cast. It’s formulated with dimethicone and glycerine to hydrate and soothe irritated or dry complexions. While you won’t have to worry about that white residue, it’s worth noting that this formula can leave a shiny finish on oily skin types.
Who It’s For
This SPF is enriched with additional skin moisturizers, making it suitable for dry or irritated complexions.
Active Ingredients: Avobenzone, homosalate, thermal spring water | Skin Type: All | Size: 3 oz. | SPF: Yes | Cruelty-Free: No
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Prescription-strength retinoid
Dermatologist tested
Non-greasy
May irritate sensitive skin types
Retinoids are considered the most effective products for acne-prone skin, but many are only available through a prescription from a dermatologist. If you're a beginner who'd like to try it for yourself, this treatment featuring the retinoid adapalene is a great place to start, as it claims to be just as effective as a prescription-grade product. It comes in a larger tube than other picks on the market and can clear all types of acne. But like all retinoid products, it can cause some irritation, especially on sensitive skin, so we suggest starting with a small area of your skin to see how it reacts before applying it accross your face.
Who It’s For
The prescription-level retinoids in this formula will help clear acne while providing a more even complexion overall.
Active Ingredients: Adapalene 0.1% | Skin Type: Acne-prone | Size: 3 oz | SPF: No | Cruelty-Free: No
Where We Stand
La Roche-Posay has a wide range of products that have skin-nourishing ingredients for a healthy and clear complexion. We love everything that the brand has to offer, but we're particular fans of the Lipikar AP+M Triple Repair Body Moisturizing Cream, which keeps the face and body hydrated for up to 48 hours. We’re also here for the Effaclar Duo, which is well-loved for its ability to soothe inflammation and heal blemishes without drying the skin.
How We Researched
To compile this list, our team of editors and contributors spent hours researching the best La Roche-Posay products on the market, evaluating their key features, including skin benefits, active ingredients, and overall results. In addition to scouring reviews from customers and other trusted sources, we tried a few products ourselves to make sure they lived up to the hype. We also consulted a board-certified dermatologist for their recommendations. We then used this research to choose the best La Roche-Posay products for this article.
What to Look For in La Roche-Posay Products
- Targeted ingredients: La Roche-Posay offers a wide range of products. When choosing what to purchase from the brand, look for targeted ingredients that work to address your specific skin concerns. Those with acne should look for products with a retinoid, like La Roche-Posay Effaclar Adapalene Gel 0.1% Topical Retinoid Acne Treatment, while those with dry skin might want to try a formula with hyaluronic acid, such as La Roche-Posay Hyalu B5 Pure Hyaluronic Acid Face Serum. Antioxidants, minerals, hydrating components, and sun-blocking ingredients are wise choices for everyone.
- Product Type: La Roche-Posay creates various products for every aspect of your skincare routine, including face wash, toner, moisturizer, and targeted skin concern products. A solid base would be a face wash (like the La Roche-Posay Toleriane Purifying Foaming Face Wash), toner, moisturizer, and sunscreen (La Roche-Posay Anthelios Mineral SPF 30 Moisturizer + Hyaluronic Acid combines the two), and at least one targeted skincare product, such as one for blemish control or fine lines. Additional products to consider are serums (like the La Roche-Posay Pure Vitamin C Face Serum for brightening) and multitasking balms (La Roche-Posay Cicaplast Balm B5 has you covered).
- Skin Type: Your skin type will determine which types of products you should look for when purchasing from La Roche-Posay’s line. Luckily, the brand caters to several skin types, including sensitive, rosacea, acne-prone, and aging skin. Some products designed for dry or aging skin may not work for oily or acne-prone skin. Acne-specific products may also be too harsh for some people with sensitive skin. For example, we love the Toleriane Double Repair Face Moisturizer and the Lipikar AP+M Triple Repair Body Moisturizing Cream for drier skin types that need hydration, but they might be too heavy for oily skin. On the other hand, the acne-soothing Effaclar Duo may be drying for those with rough, parched skin.
Why Trust Byrdie
Byrdie contributor Melanie Rud has over a decade of experience in the beauty industry, writing for some of the biggest magazines and websites out there. As someone with extremely sensitive skin, she greatly appreciates that she knows she can use pretty much any and every La Roche-Posay product and never have an issue.
Additional guidance was provided by Dr. Devika Icecreamwala, a board-certified dermatologist in Berkeley, CA. She’s the founder of Icecreamwala Dermatology, a practice specializing in both medical and cosmetic dermatology.
Byrdie contributor Esme Benjamin checked and updated this article in December 2023 to ensure every detail was correct and each product deserves its place on Byrdie’s list.
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