# La Roche-Posay Lipikar Balm AP+ for acne-prone skin

**Lovi Fit: Average fit for acne-prone skin.**
Combination Skin Fit: Average · Effectiveness: High · Safety: Concerning.

Page: https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/la-roche-posay/lipikar-balm-ap/for/acne-prone-skin

The Lovi Fit is the same in every country; only the stores and prices differ, and the ones here are for the Netherlands.

Brand: [La Roche-Posay](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/brands/la-roche-posay)
Category: [Moisturizers and moisturizing serums](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/best/moisturizers)

This fit is calculated for the concerns frequently associated with acne-prone skin: breakouts, blackheads, and post-acne marks. For scores based on a full skin profile (12D face scan, goals, preferences), use the Lovi app.

Works for acne-prone skin; other moisturizers fit it better.

## Why this fit

- Offers excellent moisturizing for your combination skin due to shea butter and glycerin, which hydrate and enhance barrier resilience, but lacks targeted ingredients for your acne, blemishes, and breakouts.
- While glycerin provides humectant action suitable for combination skin, the formula does not offer sufficient oil control for your oily areas.

## Fit by skin type

- [Oily skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/la-roche-posay/lipikar-balm-ap/for/oily-skin): Caution
- [Dry skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/la-roche-posay/lipikar-balm-ap/for/dry-skin): Superior
- [Combination skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/la-roche-posay/lipikar-balm-ap/for/combination-skin): Low
- [Sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/la-roche-posay/lipikar-balm-ap/for/sensitive-skin): High
- [Acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/la-roche-posay/lipikar-balm-ap/for/acne-prone-skin): Average (this page)
- [Skin with dark spots](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/la-roche-posay/lipikar-balm-ap/for/dark-spots): Average
- [Mature skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/la-roche-posay/lipikar-balm-ap/for/mature-skin): High
- [Dry sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/la-roche-posay/lipikar-balm-ap/for/dry-sensitive-skin): Superior
- [Oily acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/la-roche-posay/lipikar-balm-ap/for/oily-acne-prone-skin): Average

## Key ingredients

Shea Butter, Niacinamide, La Roche-Posay Prebiotic Thermal Water, Glycerin, Dimethicone

## What the research says

- A single application of a moisturizing fluid containing hyaluronic acid 1%, glycerin 5%, and Centella asiatica stem cells extract significantly increased skin hydration by 29% and reduced transepidermal water loss at 24 hours compared to baseline and an untreated control site in twenty healthy women. ([Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28860834/))
- A combination cream of stimu-tex AS and saccharide isomerate reduced erythema, increased skin capacitance, and reduced transepidermal water loss compared to placebo in 20 subjects after fractional CO2 laser procedure without causing serious adverse events. ([Lasers in Medical Science, 2025](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41134387/))
- A skin barrier restoring cream with shea butter, silkflo, and vitamin E increased type I procollagen synthesis, enhanced antioxidant enzyme activity, decreased reactive oxygen species generation, and promoted hyaluronic acid production in H2O2-stimulated human keratinocyte cells compared to untreated cells. ([International Journal of Cosmetic Science, 2025](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/39528438/))
- Topical post-laser application of human adipocyte-derived mesenchymal stem cell media combined with niacinamide significantly improved wrinkle index, melanin index, patient satisfaction, and investigator esthetic improvement scores compared to vehicle cream in patients with aging skin. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2021](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33103316/))
- Topical nicotinamide prevented solar-simulated UV-induced immunosuppression in healthy volunteers, and men experienced immunosuppression at solar-simulated UV doses three times lower than those required for women. ([The Journal of Investigative Dermatology, 2008](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17882270/))
- Topical 5% niacinamide applied twice daily for 12 weeks reduced fine lines and wrinkles, hyperpigmented spots, red blotchiness, and skin sallowness, and improved skin elasticity compared to vehicle control in 50 female white subjects with facial photoaging. ([Dermatologic Surgery, 2005](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/16029679/))
- Balneotherapy with thermal water altered specific skin microbiota at genus and species levels in healthy female volunteers compared to tap water, which produced no significant microbiome changes. ([Life, 2023](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36983902/))
- Malaysian thermal spring water as an adjunct to standard acne therapy improved skin hydration, reduced dryness and stinging, enhanced overall tolerability, and improved the acne disability index in patients with mild to moderate acne. ([The Medical Journal of Malaysia, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38553920/))
- A 2% Sphingomonas xenophaga ferment extract cream applied twice daily for 4 weeks significantly decreased facial vascular disorder scores compared to vehicle in 86 Caucasian female subjects, alongside dose-dependent inhibition of pre-kallikrein activity in vitro. ([International Journal of Cosmetic Science, 2025](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40545753/))
- The emollient V0034CR significantly reduced TEWL compared to vehicle and vehicle plus glycerol, and significantly increased corneometry scores compared to vehicle and vehicle plus petrolatum in healthy volunteers with dry skin, demonstrating combined barrier function improvement from petrolatum and hydration improvement from glycerol. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31532576/))
- Ten days of treatment with a cream containing 20% glycerin significantly increased skin hydration measured by corneometer values in 17 healthy volunteers compared to a placebo cream, but showed no influence on transepidermal water loss or skin sensitivity to an irritating surfactant. ([International Journal of Cosmetic Science, 2001](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/18498456/))
- Niacinamide/glycerin body moisturizers provided better rapid and prolonged improvement of cosmetic xerosis through functional improvement of stratum corneum barrier function compared to no treatment and conventional moisturizers in female subjects. ([Journal of Drugs in Dermatology, 2012](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22206073/))
- Wearing an N95 mask alone compared to using dimethicone cream or hydrocolloid dressing caused more adverse skin reactions among 73 military health care workers, with no significant differences in fit test failure rates between groups. ([Military Medicine, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38771104/))
- A dimethicone skin protectant lotion significantly decreased visual scoring and transepidermal water loss compared to vehicle control and SLS-only treated sites in 12 healthy humans exposed to sodium lauryl sulfate. ([Skin Research and Technology, 2000](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/11428946/))
- Treatment with a moisturizer containing dimethicone and glycerine increased epidermal thickness by 0.019 mm, improved barrier function by decreasing transepidermal water loss by 13%, decreased melanin intensity, and induced keratins 6 and 16 in fifteen women with moderately photoaged forearms. ([Clinical and Experimental Dermatology, 2007](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17137484/))

## Why other moisturizers fit acne-prone skin better

- Co-delivery of paeonol and madecassoside via nanoemulsions improved transdermal delivery, promoted barrier repair proteins, inhibited inflammatory cytokine secretion in cellular and 3D models, and reduced transepidermal water loss and acne in human facial skin compared to free components. ([Molecules, 2023](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37446936/))
- A panthenol-enriched mask improved skin hydration, regulated sebum, and reduced redness and TEWL across dry sensitive, oily sensitive, and oily acne skin subgroups with excellent tolerance and no adverse reactions. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38366684/))
- A facial serum containing snail secretion filtrate, Calendula officinalis, and Glycyrrhiza glabra root extract significantly reduced inflammatory acne lesions compared to placebo in 66 participants with mild-to-moderate maskne over 12 weeks. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2022](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35763437/))

## What reviewers say

- Liked: Deep hydration (mostly mentioned)
- Disliked: Defective pump design (mostly mentioned)
- Liked: Gentle & unscented (sometimes noted)
- Liked: Restores skin barrier (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Greasy/sticky finish (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Causes breakouts (face) (rarely noted)
- Disliked: Thick consistency (rarely noted)

## How to apply

- Use your moisturizer twice a day in your AM and PM routines. Apply it daily to help keep breakouts under control.
- Apply after your cleanser and toner, and make sure to use your SPF right after in the morning.
- Gently spread a small amount of moisturizer over your face using soft motions. Let it absorb into the skin for a minute before getting dressed or applying makeup.
- Apply on slightly damp skin to help lock in extra moisture. This keeps your combination skin balanced without feeling heavy.
- Avoid the eye area and do a patch test before your first use. Stop using if you feel any irritation.
- Video: https://storage.pora.ai/2f72f5d69f07beeafc30237f829efbff.mp4

## Questions and answers

### How well does La Roche-Posay Lipikar Balm AP+ work for acne-prone skin?

La Roche-Posay Lipikar Balm AP+ works reasonably well for acne-prone skin, though other products fit it better because this formula lacks targeted ingredients for blemishes and oil control. A moisturizer for this skin needs soothing extracts and ingredients that target breakouts while providing hydration without irritation.
Sources: [Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28860834/)

### Which ingredients make this cream a good fit for acne-prone skin?

Shea butter and glycerin make this cream a good fit by hydrating dry areas and keeping skin soft. Acne-prone skin needs a moisturizer with ingredients that target blemishes, control oil, and calm breakouts.

### What does Shea Butter do for acne-prone skin?

Shea butter can feel quite heavy on acne-prone skin, as it is very rich and may clog pores and lead to breakouts. If you have acne-prone skin, a product of this type needs lightweight, non-clogging ingredients that hydrate without trapping oil.

### What does Niacinamide do for acne-prone skin?

Niacinamide helps acne-prone skin by reducing both inflamed and uninflamed breakouts and calming redness. It is also very helpful for keeping oily skin balanced by cutting down on excess oil production, and it is well tolerated by most people.
Sources: [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38299457/), [Cureus, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38725769/)

### Where does it go in a skincare routine for acne-prone skin?

La Roche-Posay Lipikar Balm AP+ goes in your routine as your moisturizer, applied after your hydrating toner in the morning and after your treatment in the evening. While it provides good moisture with shea butter and glycerin, acne-prone skin needs a moisturizer that also offers oil control and targeted blemish-clearing ingredients.

### Can I use this cream with retinol, and in what order?

You can use this cream alongside retinol, applying it after your retinol treatment to help soothe dryness and protect your skin barrier. Using a moisturizer alongside acne treatments like retinol or retinoids is unlikely to reduce their effectiveness and may help keep your skin comfortable and smooth.
Sources: [Cutis, 2006](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17121065/), [The Journal of Dermatology, 2014](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24930436/)

### How often should I use it?

You can use this moisturizer twice a day, morning and night, to keep your skin hydrated and comfortable. Daily application helps maintain moisture and supports the skin barrier, though acne-prone skin also needs targeted ingredients for blemishes and oil control.
Sources: [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32141711/), [Health Science Reports, 2021](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34141902/)

### Can this cream clog pores, cause breakouts or purging for acne-prone skin?

This cream is unlikely to cause purging, but it may cause breakouts for acne-prone skin because it lacks targeted ingredients for blemishes and does not offer sufficient oil control for oily areas. A product for this skin needs oil-controlling ingredients and blemish-targeting actives to keep pores clear.

### Can I use it around the eyes or on my body?

This moisturizer is safe to use on the body and around the eyes, though the skin there is much thinner than on other areas. It helps hydrate dry spots effectively, but an acne-prone skin type needs a product that also provides oil control and targeted blemish-fighting ingredients.
Sources: [Surgical and Radiologic Anatomy, 2002](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12375070/)

### Is this cream fragrance-free and alcohol-free?

Yes, it has no fragrance and no drying alcohol. Cetearyl alcohol is a fatty alcohol, which soften the skin.

## Alternatives for acne-prone skin

- [belif The True Cream Aqua Bomb](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/belif/the-true-cream-aqua-bomb/for/acne-prone-skin) — High fit — €35.96 at Amazon
- [ANUA Heartleaf 70% Soothing Cream](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/anua/heartleaf-70-soothing-cream/for/acne-prone-skin) — High fit — €25.29 at Amazon
- [Purito Centella Unscented Recovery Cream](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/purito/centella-unscented-recovery-cream/for/acne-prone-skin) — High fit — €12.55 at Amazon

## Pairs well with

- Cleanser: [B.LAB Matcha Hydrating Foam Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/b-lab/matcha-hydrating-foam-cleanser/for/acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — €13.99 at Amazon
- Hydrating Toner: [SOME BY MI Snail Truecica Miracle Repair Toner](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/some-by-mi/snail-truecica-miracle-repair-toner/for/acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — €19.90 at Amazon
- SPF: [d'Alba Piedmont Waterfull Mild Sunscreen](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/d-alba/piedmont-waterfull-mild-sunscreen/for/acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — €16.75 at Amazon

## Where to buy

- Amazon.nl: €22.80 (https://www.amazon.nl/dp/B0FTFQB5YF?tag=lovi-care-web-product085-21&linkCode=osi&th=1&psc=1)
- Notino: €22.00 (https://www.notino.nl/la-roche-posay/lipikar-apmax-balm-verzorgende-body-balsem-voor-zeer-droge-gevoelige-en-atopische-huid/p-16347522/)
- Lookfantastic: €23.00 (https://www.lookfantastic.nl/p/la-roche-posay-lipikar-ap-max-triple-action-balm-for-ultra-dry-to-atopic-eczema-prone-skin-400ml/17597203/)
Prices checked 10 Oct – 5 Nov 2026.

## Ingredients

Water, Butyrospermum Parkii Butter, Shea Butter, Glycerin, Dimethicone, Niacinamide, Cetearyl Alcohol, Brassica Campestris Seed Oil, Glyceryl Stearate, Ammonium Polyacryloyldimethyl Taurate, Peg-100 Stearate, Propandiol, Ophiopogon Japonicus Root Extract, Peg-20 Methyl Glucose Sesquistearate, Sorbitan Tristearate, Dimethiconol, Sodium Chloride, Mannose, Coco-Betaine, Disodium Edta, Capryloyl Glycine, Caprylyl Glycol, Vitreoscilla Ferment, Citric Acid, Maltodextrin, Xanthan Gum, Tocopherol, Pentaerythrityl Tetra-Di-T-Butyl Hydroxyhydrocinnamate
## About the Lovi Fit

Lovi: Unbiased, science-based skincare AI trained on real user outcomes.

Lovi calculates every fit score from the full ingredient list with brand-independent rules its dermatologists and cosmetic chemists build and review, and personalizes every pick with AI trained on the real results of millions of users. Lovi trains its fit score models on a proprietary dataset built from more than 10,000 expert-labeled products and more than 100,000 simulated examples, following an internally consistent methodology presented at Cosmoprof, AMWC, and Skin of Color Update. Levels from best to worst: Superior, High, Average, Low, Caution, Warning.

Behind this fit score: Nadia Kapleva, MS (Co-founder, Medical Director); Alexey Shagraev, PhD (Co-founder, CEO and CTO); Dr. Sofía Perea Pérez, MD, MSc (Medical Board); Aishani Shah, MD (Medical Board); Asya Zubkova, MS (Medical Board); Hanna Kurets, MD (Medical Board, Medical Advisor); Elina Nazarenko, MD (Medical Board); Victoria Derkova, MS (Medical Board).

Page built Nov 8, 2026.

More from Lovi: https://lovi.care/skincare/llms.txt

## This page in other countries

- United States: https://lovi.care/skincare/p/la-roche-posay/lipikar-balm-ap/for/acne-prone-skin
- United Kingdom: https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/la-roche-posay/lipikar-balm-ap/for/acne-prone-skin
- Ireland: https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/la-roche-posay/lipikar-balm-ap/for/acne-prone-skin
- Germany: https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/la-roche-posay/lipikar-balm-ap/for/acne-prone-skin
- France: https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/la-roche-posay/lipikar-balm-ap/for/acne-prone-skin
- Italy: https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/la-roche-posay/lipikar-balm-ap/for/acne-prone-skin
- Netherlands: https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/la-roche-posay/lipikar-balm-ap/for/acne-prone-skin (this page)
- Spain: https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/la-roche-posay/lipikar-balm-ap/for/acne-prone-skin
- Canada: https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/la-roche-posay/lipikar-balm-ap/for/acne-prone-skin
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