La Roche-Posay Lipikar Cleansing Oil AP+ Review 2026: Yuka Score 86

Item: Lipikar Cleansing Oil AP+
Rating: 4.3
Author: Safe Cosmetics

Finding a cleanser that balances effective dirt removal with intense hydration is a challenge for those with reactive skin, but the La Roche-Posay Lipikar Cleansing Oil AP+ aims to bridge that gap. With a Yuka score of 86/100, this product is rated as "Good," offering a lipid-replenishing formula that protects the skin barrier from the drying effects of hard water. It is specifically designed to provide 24-hour hydration starting from the moment you step into the shower.

What is La Roche-Posay Lipikar Cleansing Oil AP+?

La Roche-Posay Lipikar Cleansing Oil AP+ is a versatile, foaming oil cleanser designed for both the face and body. Unlike traditional oils that may feel greasy, this formula transforms into a gentle foam upon contact with water, ensuring a clean finish without any oily residue. It is engineered for individuals with dry to extra-dry, sensitive, and atopy-prone skin.

The product is part of the renowned Lipikar range, which focuses on restoring the skin's microbiome and lipid levels. It is gentle enough for the entire family, including infants and seniors. By utilizing soothing thermal spring water and lipid-restoring agents, it effectively removes debris while instantly calming sensations of itchiness and irritation.

Yuka Score Analysis

The Yuka score of 86/100 places this cleansing oil in the "Good" category. This high rating reflects a formulation that avoids many of the high-risk endocrine disruptors or carcinogenic preservatives often found in mass-market body washes. It is a strong choice for health-conscious consumers looking for dermatological safety.

While the score is excellent, the presence of certain surfactants and fragrances prevents it from reaching a perfect 100. However, for a foaming product that needs to maintain shelf stability and a pleasant user experience, 86/100 is a very competitive score that indicates a high level of ingredient safety and transparency.

Complete Ingredient Breakdown

The efficacy of Lipikar AP+ lies in its blend of soothing agents and mild surfactants. Here is a breakdown of the key components based on their safety profile and function.

Low Risk & Beneficial Ingredients

Glycerin: A powerful humectant that draws moisture into the skin, ensuring the cleansing process does not lead to dehydration.
Niacinamide: Also known as Vitamin B3, this anti-inflammatory ingredient helps soothe itchy skin and restores the lipid barrier.
Shea Butter Glycerides: Provides essential lipids to the skin, mimicking the natural oils that are often stripped away during washing.
Vitreoscilla Ferment: A proprietary prebiotic ingredient that helps rebalance the skin's microbiome, essential for eczema-prone skin.

Ingredients to Note (Potential Irritants)

Sodium Laureth Sulfate (SLES): While more gentle than SLS, this surfactant provides the foaming action but can be slightly drying for extremely compromised skin barriers.
Fragrance (Parfum): Included to provide a pleasant scent, though it may be a contact allergen for some individuals with specific fragrance sensitivities.

Who Should Use This

Ideal for:

Dry to extra-dry skin: Those who experience "tightness" after showering will benefit from the lipid-replenishing properties.
Atopy-prone skin: The inclusion of Niacinamide and Aqua Posae Filiformis makes it suitable for those dealing with eczema or chronic itching.
Families: A great "all-in-one" bottle that is safe for babies' scalps and sensitive adult skin.

May not be ideal for:

Fragrance-sensitive individuals: Those who require 100% fragrance-free skincare should patch test first.
Oily/Acne-prone skin: While it rinses clean, the heavy lipid content may be unnecessary for those with high sebum production.

Pros and Cons

Pros

Intense Hydration: Provides 24-hour moisture that starts during the cleansing process.
Anti-Itch Properties: Instantly soothes skin prone to irritation and scratching.
No Oily Residue: The oil-to-foam texture ensures skin feels clean and smooth, not greasy.
Eco-Friendly Options: Available in large sizes and refillable formats to reduce plastic waste.

Cons

Contains Sulfates: Uses SLES for foaming, which some "clean beauty" purists may avoid.

Scented Formula: The light fragrance, while pleasant, may not suit everyone's preference for medical-grade cleansers.

How to Use

To get the most out of the Lipikar Huile Lavante AP+, follow these simple steps for face and body application.

In the shower: Apply a small amount to the palm of your hand and massage onto wet skin until it forms a light foam.
In the bath: Add 5 pumps to the bathwater while filling the tub to help neutralize the drying effects of hard water.
Rinse: Gently rinse with water and pat the skin dry with a soft towel—avoid rubbing to keep the lipid barrier intact.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this product safe for babies?

Yes, the formula is specifically tested under pediatric control and is safe for use on infants, including on the scalp for cradle cap.

Can I use this as a face wash?

Absolutely. It is non-comedogenic and gently removes dirt and light makeup without stinging the eyes or clogging pores.

Does it leave the shower floor slippery?

Because it transforms into a foam and rinses away cleanly, it is much less likely to leave a slippery residue compared to traditional shower oils.

Final Verdict

YES. We highly recommend the La Roche-Posay Lipikar Cleansing Oil AP+. With a solid Yuka score of 86/100, it strikes an excellent balance between dermatological efficacy and ingredient safety. It is a rare product that manages to feel luxurious while performing a medical-grade function for very dry skin. If you struggle with winter dryness or sensitive skin that reacts to standard soaps, this cleansing oil is a reliable and safe investment for your bathroom shelf.

La Roche-Posay Lipikar Cleansing Oil AP+ Review 2026 | Yuka Score 86/100