# La Roche-Posay Lipikar Balm AP+ for dry skin

**Lovi Fit: Superior fit for dry skin.**
Dry Skin Fit: Superior · Effectiveness: Superior · Safety: Excellent.

Page: https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/la-roche-posay/lipikar-balm-ap/for/dry-skin

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

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

This fit is calculated for the concerns frequently associated with dry skin: flakiness, tightness, dehydration, fine lines, and wrinkles. For scores based on a full skin profile (12D face scan, goals, preferences), use the Lovi app.

One of the best moisturizers for dry skin.

## Why this fit

- Excellent suitability for your dry skin is provided by shea butter and glycerin, which offer significant emollient and humectant benefits to combat dryness and flakiness.
- Niacinamide and Vitreoscilla Ferment further enhance barrier resilience and soothe the skin, complementing the primary moisturizing ingredients.
- The product is safe for your skin, with no risks of irritation due to the absence of harsh ingredients and the inclusion of soothing components.

## Fit by skin type

- [Oily skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/la-roche-posay/lipikar-balm-ap/for/oily-skin): Caution
- [Dry skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/la-roche-posay/lipikar-balm-ap/for/dry-skin): Superior (this page)
- [Combination skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/la-roche-posay/lipikar-balm-ap/for/combination-skin): Low
- [Sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/la-roche-posay/lipikar-balm-ap/for/sensitive-skin): High
- [Acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/la-roche-posay/lipikar-balm-ap/for/acne-prone-skin): Average
- [Skin with dark spots](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/la-roche-posay/lipikar-balm-ap/for/dark-spots): Average
- [Mature skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/la-roche-posay/lipikar-balm-ap/for/mature-skin): High
- [Dry sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/la-roche-posay/lipikar-balm-ap/for/dry-sensitive-skin): Superior
- [Oily acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/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 dermocosmetic formulation containing Vichy volcanic mineralizing water, Vitreoscilla filiformis extract, niacinamide, hyaluronic acid, and vitamin E accelerated skin renewal, improved antioxidant defenses, enhanced skin barrier recovery after acute stress, and improved microbiome recovery compared to untreated skin. ([Journal of the European Academy of Dermatology and Venereology, 2022](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34979590/))
- 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/))
- 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/))

## 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

- Could be used as part of your AM or PM routine. Start using it 3 times a week and work your way up to daily use.
- Apply your moisturizer after your toner and before your sunscreen in the morning. At night, use it as the final step after your serum.
- Gently press a small amount of the moisturizer into your skin. Avoid rubbing to keep your dry skin happy.
- Apply the moisturizer on slightly damp skin to help lock in extra hydration. This is great for soothing dry and flaky areas .
- Avoid the sensitive eye area and do a patch test before your first use .
- Video: https://storage.pora.ai/2f72f5d69f07beeafc30237f829efbff.mp4

## Questions and answers

### What makes La Roche-Posay Lipikar Balm AP+ one of the best fits for dry skin?

La Roche-Posay Lipikar Balm AP+ is an exceptional fit for dry skin because shea butter and glycerin lock in moisture to combat dryness and flakiness. Niacinamide and Vitreoscilla ferment further help strengthen your skin barrier and soothe irritation.
Sources: [Journal of the European Academy of Dermatology and Venereology, 2022](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34979590/)

### Which ingredients make this cream a good fit for dry skin?

Shea butter and glycerin make this cream a great fit because they relieve dryness and flakiness, while niacinamide and Vitreoscilla ferment help calm the skin and strengthen its barrier.
Sources: [Journal of the European Academy of Dermatology and Venereology, 2022](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34979590/)

### What does Shea Butter do for dry skin?

Shea butter helps dry skin feel soft and smooth by protecting the skin barrier and keeping moisture locked in. It is very safe for regular use and is unlikely to cause irritation when applied to dry or sensitive areas.
Sources: [International Journal of Molecular Sciences, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29280987/)

### What does Niacinamide do for dry skin?

Niacinamide helps dry skin by strengthening the skin barrier, increasing hydration, and reducing water loss. It supports ceramide production and helps keep the surface smooth and calm. This ingredient tends to be very well tolerated and is unlikely to irritate dry skin.
Sources: [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2004](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17147561/), [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2026](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/42108609/)

### Where does it go in a skincare routine for dry skin?

This moisturizer goes in the morning and evening routine after your toner or treatment. A daily routine with a mild cleanser and moisturizer significantly improves visual dryness and overall skin comfort.
Sources: [The Journal of Dermatological Treatment, 2022](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32239984/)

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

You can use this cream with retinol, applying the cream after your retinol to help calm your skin and keep it soft and smooth. Using a moisturizer like this helps reduce the dryness and irritation that often come with retinol.
Sources: [Cutis, 2006](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17121065/), [Journal of Drugs in Dermatology, 2023](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37276158/)

### How often should I use it?

You can use this moisturizer twice a day, in the morning and evening, to keep your dry skin feeling soft and comfortable. Daily application is unlikely to cause irritation and helps improve skin moisture and barrier strength.
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 dry skin?

This cream is unlikely to cause breakouts or clog pores on dry skin, as it has a very low complaint rate for facial breakouts and features a safe formula without harsh ingredients. It leaves a greasy or sticky finish for some users, which is typical for rich moisturizers that deeply soften and comfort very dry skin.

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

This moisturizer is safe and suitable to use all over your body and around the eyes to combat dryness and flakiness. Shea butter and glycerin help soothe and soften dry skin while improving barrier resilience without irritation.
Sources: [Journal of the European Academy of Dermatology and Venereology, 2022](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34979590/)

### 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 dry skin

- [SKIN1004 Madagascar Centella Probio-Cica Enrich Cream](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/skin1004/madagascar-centella-probio-cica-enrich-cream/for/dry-skin) — Superior fit — £14.74 at Amazon
- [The Ordinary Natural Moisturizing Factors + HA](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/the-ordinary/natural-moisturizing-factors-ha/for/dry-skin) — Superior fit — £11.40 at Amazon
- [COSRX Advanced Snail 96 Mucin Power Essence](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/cosrx/advanced-snail-96-mucin-power-essence/for/dry-skin) — Superior fit — £12.21 at Amazon

## Pairs well with

- Cleanser: [CeraVe Hydrating Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/cerave/hydrating-facial-cleanser/for/dry-skin) — Superior fit — £8.29 at Amazon
- Hydrating Toner: [Dear, Klairs Supple Preparation Unscented Toner](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/dear-klairs/supple-preparation-unscented-toner/for/dry-skin) — Superior fit — £11.49 at Amazon
- SPF: [Torriden DIVE-IN Mild Sunscreen](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/torriden/dive-in-mild-sunscreen/for/dry-skin) — Superior fit — £22.00 at Amazon

## Where to buy

- Amazon.co.uk: £25.49 (https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B0FTFQB5YF?tag=lovi-care-web-product-21&linkCode=osi&th=1&psc=1)
- Notino: £17.90 (https://www.notino.co.uk/la-roche-posay/lipikar-apmax-balm-nourishing-body-balm-for-very-dry-sensitive-and-atopic-skin/p-16347522/)
- Lookfantastic: £20.00 (https://www.lookfantastic.com/p/la-roche-posay-lipikar-ap-max-triple-action-balm-for-ultra-dry-to-atopic-eczema-prone-skin-400ml/17597203/)
Prices checked 10 Oct – 2 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/dry-skin
- United Kingdom: https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/la-roche-posay/lipikar-balm-ap/for/dry-skin (this page)
- Ireland: https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/la-roche-posay/lipikar-balm-ap/for/dry-skin
- Germany: https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/la-roche-posay/lipikar-balm-ap/for/dry-skin
- France: https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/la-roche-posay/lipikar-balm-ap/for/dry-skin
- Italy: https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/la-roche-posay/lipikar-balm-ap/for/dry-skin
- Netherlands: https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/la-roche-posay/lipikar-balm-ap/for/dry-skin
- Spain: https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/la-roche-posay/lipikar-balm-ap/for/dry-skin
- Canada: https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/la-roche-posay/lipikar-balm-ap/for/dry-skin
- Australia: https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/la-roche-posay/lipikar-balm-ap/for/dry-skin
- Singapore: https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/la-roche-posay/lipikar-balm-ap/for/dry-skin
- Saudi Arabia: https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/la-roche-posay/lipikar-balm-ap/for/dry-skin
- United Arab Emirates: https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/la-roche-posay/lipikar-balm-ap/for/dry-skin