The Cicaplast is La Roche-Posay's series for skin regeneration. These are multi-purpose products that soothe irritations and repair the function of the epidermal barrier, on the face, body, hands, and scalp. The common core of the entire series is panthenol (provitamin B5), which is why the products bear “B5” in their names.
It is one of the most recognizable series in the Greek pharmacy, and people refer to it in many ways: cicaplast, sicaplast, cicaplast baume b5, La Roche Posay cicaplast, cicaplast la Roche, and even larose posay or laroche poche. They all refer to the same thing, the regenerative cream with its characteristic white tube.
The epidermis is constantly renewing itself. In the deeper layers, new cells, keratinocytes, are born. They gradually rise to the surface, fill with keratin, die, and are eventually shed. This cycle takes about 28 days in young, healthy skin and lengthens with age. This is natural regeneration, a process that runs on its own, every day, without us noticing.
The problem begins when something disrupts the epidermal barrier, i.e., the outer layer of dead cells and lipids that keeps water in and irritants out. Friction, cold, sun, excessive washing, shaving, waxing, a cosmetic procedure, or simply dry skin with an atopic predisposition leave the barrier open. Then the skin loses water faster (transepidermal water loss), becomes rough, reddens, stings, and itches. And as long as the barrier remains open, renewal completes more slowly.
This is where the logic of the regenerative cream comes in. It doesn’t “create” new skin out of nothing. It creates the conditions for the natural process that already exists to run without obstacles: it keeps moisture in, reduces irritation, mechanically protects the area, and supplies the skin with ingredients involved in its metabolism. The result the user sees is less redness, less tightness, and skin that returns to its normal appearance faster.
The market is full of products advertised as regenerative. Three things make a difference in practice.
The direction of recent years in the series is precisely this: not only to cover the barrier but to respect the microbiome, i.e., the microorganisms that naturally live on the skin and contribute to its defense.
The series is not one product in multiple sizes. It is different textures for different areas and needs.
In practice, Cicaplast enters the cabinet for recurring reasons: after waxing or shaving, after prolonged sun exposure, after a superficial cosmetic procedure or laser when the professional allows it, on cracked hands in winter, on dry red patches around the nose and mouth, on skin distressed by drying products, and on cracked lips. It is also a classic choice for mom’s bag, as the series is suitable for all ages, from newborns to adults, with product-specific instructions.
It is not a medicine. Open, deep, or infected wounds, extensive burns, bites, and diagnosed skin conditions need a doctor, not a cosmetic.
It means the formula supports the skin’s natural renewal process, mainly through hydration, soothing, and barrier repair. It does not mean healing trauma or scars.
The texture and feel. Baume is rich and occlusive, ideal where the skin is very dry or exposed. Gel is light and transparent, preferred on the face with oiliness or when you don’t want shine.
When the area is sensitive to touch or hard to reach. The spray is applied without rubbing, so no mechanical pressure is exerted on the skin.
The series is suitable for all ages, from newborns, but each product has its own instructions and limitations. The Spray, for example, is not intended for babies and young children. Always check the packaging and consult a pediatrician or pharmacist.
The series supports hydration and barrier repair, but it is not a treatment for scars. For hypertrophic or old scars, there are specialized silicone formulations. Ask your pharmacist.
Yes, provided it has been absorbed. If the area is going to be exposed to the sun while recovering, the Baume B5 SPF50 version solves both steps together.
Depending on the product and need, usually one to several times a day. Dexpanthenol delivers with repeated application, not with a single generous layer.
The 15ml is for the bag and for trying. The 40ml covers targeted daily use on the face and hands. The 100ml is beneficial when the whole family uses it or on large body surfaces.
At room temperature, away from direct sunlight and from children. Close the packaging well after each use.
Cosmetic products. The reported actions refer to cosmetic action, in accordance with Regulation (EC) 1223/2009. The text is for informational purposes and does not replace the advice of a doctor or pharmacist. Always check the label and instructions of each product before use.
