The 15 best La Roche-Posay products to protect and hydrate your skin - according to our beauty team
These are the best La Roche-Posay products to add to your skincare arsenal...
Wondering which of the best La Roche-Posay products are worth adding to your skincare routine? Our woman&home beauty team have put over a dozen of the brand's hero formulas to the test - from SPFs to serums - to bring you every drop of skin-loving intel...
After all, you've likely already seen a few of these blue and white bottles cropping up on social media and best skincare product roundups and for good reason. The brand's French pharmacy background means that they focus on skin health before trends and aesthetics, with their formulas geared towards soothing, protecting and repairing, whilst being packed to the brim with hardworking and effective ingredients.
So, if you're new to the range or want to expand your collection, we've spritzed, dripped and slathered 15 of the most popular LRP products onto our faces - and spoken to a handful of dermatologists and experts - to bring you the inside scoop before you buy. Your skin will thank you (and hopefully, us).
The 15 best La Roche-Posay products to add to your skincare regime
Why you can trust Woman & Home
Whether you're a dry skin sufferer or require targeted treatments, we've rounded up a selection of the most popular and effective La Roche-Posay formulas - from the best hyaluronic acid serums to moisturisers and staple SPFs - all of which have been vetted by our team of beauty experts and by dermatologists alike...
Staple SPF
RRP: £20 for 50ml | Type: SPF for face | Standouts: protects from UVA, UVB and ultra-long UVA rays
Woman&home Senior Beauty Editor, Rhiannon Derbyshire adores this product: "This is the best facial sunscreen in my kit. I use it every day, rain or shine, so it’s not a surprise that this tops the list as LRP's number-one bestseller."
Rhiannon also adds that this product, "goes on like a dream, sinks in quickly, and doesn’t leave a white cast. It sits nicely under my makeup and doesn’t give me any breakouts."
Reasons to buy: An everyday SPF that's non-sticky and works well under makeup
Reasons to avoid: None, we love this
What the derms say: "We encourage year-round use of a broad spectrum product. Anthelios UVMune400 Invisible Fluid SPF0+ offers unprecedented protection across the whole UV spectrum," says Dermatologist Dr Justine Hextall.
Ideal for sensitive skin
RRP: £16 for 100ml | Type: Face Spray | Standouts: features 5% of Vitamin B5, glycerin and copper-manganese
A combination of skincare and a medicated treatment, the Cicaplast spray is designed to act as a soothing and repairing spray for various skin problems, including burns, rashes, and peeling. It will work just as well for menopausal skincare as it does for young, sensitive skin, thanks to the hypo-allergenic formula.
"When heavy creams feel too much, or my skin is sensitive to the touch and could benefit from non-intrusive treatment, this spray is my go-to. I find it especially beneficial after having any hardcore skincare treatments, or after spending a lot of time in the sun, as it gives an instantly soothing feel," woman&home's Senior Writer, Amelia Yeomans says.
Reasons to buy: Ideal for sensitive skin, hygienic, soothing and lightweight
Reasons to avoid: More medical than indulgent skincare
Best night treatment
RRP: £25 for 40ml | Type: Night cream | Standouts: features squalane and niacinimide
Whether you are looking for skincare for sensitive skin that you know you can trust, or just want something simple and effective, this night moisturizer can be worked easily into your regime. "One of my favourite ways to use it is after applying retinol or other intensive treatments that can lead to dryness or increased sensitivity," Amelia explains, adding, "The thin, gel texture glides perfectly onto the skin and provides ample hydration overnight and into the next morning. Expect to wake up to plumper-looking skin that is primed and ready for makeup looks."
Reasons to buy: Suitable for sensitive skin and fast-absorbing
Reasons to avoid: Those with extremely dry skin may prefer the Cicaplast Baume
Multi-tasking SPF
RRP: £31 for 50ml | Type: Anti-aging SPF | Standouts: features antioxidants, niacinamide and hyaluronic acid
This SPF uses skincare ingredients to treat the skin while protecting it from UV rays. It also includes antioxidants, as well as niacinamide and hyaluronic acid to plump and brighten the complexion. Rhiannon says: "My skin feels plump and hydrated and after a few days of using this, I did feel my skin looked brighter. I’d recommend it for mature skin, but it would work absolutely fine on all skin types and ages."
Reasons to buy: Hardworking, multi-tasking SPF that blends easily and battles the signs of ageing
Reasons to avoid: May not be suitable for all ages
What the derms say: Consultant dermatologist Dr Zainab Laftah says it’s one of the best LRP products: "My patients with melasma and sun-induced freckles love this sunscreen because it helps target the pigmentation whilst offering high UV protection. It’s a brilliant all-rounder, and it's kind to skin."
Blemish busting
RRP: £20 for 40ml | Type: Acne treatment | Standouts: Non-comedogenic and features salicylic acid
Dermatologists tout this as being one of the best acne treatments around and Rhiannon agrees: "My skin always feels clearer and calmer after using this - I couldn’t be without it. I start including it in my routine when I feel a breakout about to kick in, and the difference it makes is really noticeable."
Reasons to buy: Quick and effective blemish treatment without being too drying
Reasons to avoid: Spot treatments can be subjective
What the derms say: "The gel formula is light and non-comedogenic whilst the salicylic acid and niacinamide help unclog pores and reduce inflammation. This moisturizer is perfectly designed for those with blemish-prone skin and my patients with acne or oily skin absolutely love it," says Dr Laftah.
Uber-hydrating
RRP: £23 for 40ml | Type: Moisturiser | Standouts: Anti-inflammatory and designed for sensitive skin
This moisturiser has Rhiannon's seal of approval: "This ultra-gentle, soothing moisturizer makes an instant difference to sensitive, sore skin - in fact, I get a bit panicky when I’ve run out of it. The relief is instant when it hits my skin - it glides on, soothes instantly, and helps restore some calm."
Reasons to buy: Instantly calms and soothes the skin
Reasons to avoid: If you don't have sensitive or irritated skin, there may be no need for this cream in your routine
What the derms say: "I have always recommended the Toleriane range to my patients," says Dr Hextall, adding: "This ultra-gentle skin care is soothing, anti-inflammatory, and hydrating; tolerated by even the most sensitive skin. I cannot imagine any skin type that wouldn’t benefit from this unique formulation."
Damaged skin savior
RRP: £10.90 for 40ml | Type: Repairing balm | Standout: Enriched with Tribioma (a unique prebiotic complex), Vitamin B5 and zinc.
A little goes a long way with this thick and rich, ultra-reparative cream. It gets to work quickly and is the ultimate multi-tasker to add to your arsenal. Naomi Jamieson, Digital Beauty Writer at w&h loves this stuff: "I have quite dry skin and this cream instantly nourishes and relieves tightness, leaving me glowing. I've also received so many compliments on the overall luminosity of my skin since adding this to my routine and my skin's barrier and texture have never been better. It's also amazing for makeup prep on those extra dry days."
Reasons to buy: Ideal for all sorts of ailments, from burns to dryness and leaves the skin looking so hydrated,
Reasons to avoid: Is very thick and may leave a white cast
On-the-go SPF
RRP: £17.90 for 75ml | Type: SPF mist | Standouts: Can be applied over makeup
Misting sunscreens have been gaining popularity lately and for good reason which, as Rhiannon notes is, "largely because they can be applied over makeup throughout the day, which is what I like to use this product for. Whether I am in a hot, sunny environment, or want a lightweight mist to provide protection on more muggy, overcast days, this is my go-to.
"Those who struggle with spray products may prefer the brand's classic liquid sunscreen over this version, however, I think it doesn't hurt to have both."
Reasons to buy: It's lightweight, easy to reapply and can be worn over makeup.
Reasons to avoid: If you don't like misting products or find them difficult to use, this might not be for you
Hydrating serum
RRP: £45 for 30ml | Type: Serum | Standout: features hyaluronic acid and Vitamin B5
Both Naomi and Rhiannon adore this serum, with the latter sharing: "I loved this from the second I used it. I’m all about hardworking, faff-free buys that just work, and this ticks all of those boxes. It sinks in quickly and doesn’t leave skin feeling tacky or clogged. It sits nicely under both day and night creams, and you see a real difference in the bounce of your skin after just a few uses. You really can’t go wrong with it."
Naomi also adds that she often pairs this serum with her best Gua Sha tools (here's how to use a Gua Sha, if you need it) for a relaxing and de-puffing self-care moment.
Reasons to buy: Works for all skin types, fast-absorbing and ultra-hydrating
Reasons to avoid: Quite pricey for a hyaluronic serum
Blemish and dark spot treatment
RRP: £48 for 30ml | Type: Blemish treatment | Standouts: features 10% niacinamide
This concentrated formula uses 10% niacinamide, blended with plumping hyaluronic acid to hydrate skin while helping those marks fade. This is a relatively new launch but its popularity means that the results really speak for themselves. Rhiannon says: "I really enjoyed using this, even though hyperpigmentation isn't at the forefront of my skin issues. My skin looked brighter and refreshed within a week."
Reasons to buy: A brilliant treatment for age spots and blemishes and is suitable for everyday use
Reasons to avoid: Quite expensive for a serum
What the derms say: "I'm often asked how to combat pigmentation, and this is a brilliant option, as niacinamide is all about reducing both inflammation and pigmentation," Dr Emma Wedgeworth, Consultant Dermatologist.
Perfect morning cleanser
RRP: £22 for 400ml | Type: Gel cleanser | Standouts: Enriched with soothing thermal spring water and zinc
"After cleansing with this my skin is fresh and clean without that almost itchy squeaky-clean feel. I always swap to using this if I’m in the midst of a breakout and I really find that it makes a difference to those pesky little under-the-skin spots. I also quite enjoy the massive bottle, I find it pleasing and strangely reassuring, " says Rhiannon.
Reasons to buy: Gentle and ideal for acne-prone skin
Reasons to avoid: May not suit all skin needs as it's designed predominately for oily and acne-prone
What the derms say: "This is one of my best cleansers for acne-prone skin, " Dr Laftah says, "Its soft foaming properties help remove the build-up of oil, debris, and dead skin cells and, as many of my patients report, it does not leave the skin feeling dry."
Effective retinol
RRP: £48 for 30ml | Type: retinol serum | Standouts: has Retinol 0.3% + Vitamin B3
It's important to know how to make retinol work for you before adding it to your routine, but once you're in the know, this LRP option is a great one. Rhiannon explains: "As with all retinol, I’d recommend easing into using it every three or four nights, then working up your tolerance to using it more frequently - if you want to. The gentle formula means you can get away with using it frequently, without harming your skin."
Reasons to buy: It's a hardworking retinol that is gentle enough for frequent use
Reasons to avoid: Retinol can cause irritation. This serum can also feel tacky on the skin and must be followed by a moisturiser.
What the derms say: "Recommending a retinol serum to my patients with sensitive skin to help address signs of ageing can be a challenge, however this serum due to its unique formulation is tolerated by all skin types," notes Dr Laftah.
Hydrating eye serum
RRP: £32 for 15ml | Type: Eye serum | Standout: Features hyaluronic acid, Vitamin B5 and niacinamide
Rhiannon is a big fan of this serum: "I find eye creams tricky to slot into my routine, but I weirdly love using an eye serum - especially if feels like a treat to use. This absolutely slots into that category, thanks to the rollerball applicator, which feels gorgeous and soothing on tired eyes. It'll really come into its own during hay fever season, cooling down sore, sensitive eyes."
Reasons to buy: Offers a cooling and soothing treatment and is mess-free
Reasons to avoid: If you prefer classic eye creams, this serum option may not be for you and is pricey for the amount
Serum for sensitive skin
RRP: £40 for 30ml | Type: Repairing serum | Standout: features a high concentration of Vitamin B5
Offering a barrier-like layer over your skin, this serum works to protect whilst also plumping and hydrating your skin, for an ultra-glowy finish. Rhiannon says: "It promises to hydrate and help repair the skin barrier in just one hour, so it's a great quick fix in a skin emergency. It's also safe to use after some dermatologist treatments like facial peels, so it's a handy product to keep in your kit for when your skin's sore."
Reasons to buy: This non-greasy, barrier-supporting treatment is soothing and suitable for sensitive skin types
Reasons to avoid: A tad pricey
Luxe-feeling cleanser
RRP: £16.50 for 200ml | Type: Cream cleanser | Standout: enriched with niacinimide
Meet another staple in Naomi's routine: "I cannot rave about this product enough - just a few drops of water turns this cleansing cream into a luxurious lather that mimics what I would imagine washing my face with a literal cloud would feel like. I gently massage for 30 seconds before rinsing and am left with silky smooth skin, that feels clean and nourished but in no way stripped."
Reasons to buy: Ideal for oily, blemish-prone and sensitive skin and offers so much value for your money
Reasons to avoid: Shouldn't be used too near to the eyes
Who tested our La Roche-Posay picks
When it comes to skincare, everyone's needs and preferences differ. You may, for instance, just be on the hunt for a face sunscreen that doesn't disrupt your makeup or, perhaps you're simply looking to add one of the best eye creams into your AM routine. Regardless, it can be helpful to hear how other people - with similar skin types - found using a product before you buy.
So, if you're curious about which team members put La Roche-Posay's skincare lineup to the test and how their skin types might compare to your own needs, meet the testers below...
Rhiannon Derbyshire is the Senior Beauty Editor for woman&home, where she covers matte lipsticks, posh shampoos, and every skincare product imaginable. She is well-versed in all things blemish and acne-related after tackling her own demons. For this piece, she has tested a range of LRP's hero products - from the brand's retinol serum to their SPF options - and has shared her experiences and opinions on whether they're worth the spend.
Amelia Yeomans is a Senior Writer at woman&home and specialises in fashion and beauty content, covering everything from nail trends to red carpet events. As someone with combination and acne-prone skin, she has shared her experience with LRP's night cream and face sprays and how they worked with her oilier skin type.
Naomi Jamieson is the Digital Beauty Writer at woman&home, where she covers everything from hair to fragrances but specialises in makeup (especially where the term "glowy" is involved), nail trends and all things skin as she, herself, struggles with a sensitive and dry skin type. For this piece, she has tested a range of La Roche-Posay's serums, moisturisers and cleansers and shared how they impacted her skin barrier and why they're now staples in her beauty regime.
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Rhiannon Derbyshire is the Senior Beauty Editor for Woman & Home and other publications.
She started interning for glossy magazines while working alongside her Fashion Journalism degree. There, she was lured to the beauty desk, seduced by matte lipsticks, posh shampoos, and every skincare product imaginable. 10+ years into her career, she can confidently tell you why the best mascaras are always high street, and why SPF is a non-negotiable all year round. Ask her about her curly hair routine, skincare minimalism, and how to find the exact right red lipstick
- Amelia YeomansSenior writer
- Naomi JamiesonDigital Beauty Writer
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