La Roche-Posay Anthelios Anti-imperfections SPF50+

La Roche-Posay Anthelios Anti-imperfections SPF50+
1.8
/ 10
Moisturizing
3.4 Humectancy icon Humectancy
0.2 Occlusivity icon Occlusivity
2Anti-wrinkle icon/ 10
Anti-wrinkle
50
SPF icon
SPF

Review

Does La Roche-Posay Anthelios Anti-imperfections SPF50+ work?

Based on the ingredient list analysis by CreamScan AI, these are the key benefits you can expect from using La Roche-Posay Anthelios Anti-imperfections SPF50+:

  • A bit of moisturizing. It has a moisturizing rating of 1.8 out of 10.
  • Some anti-wrinkle efficacy: La Roche-Posay Anthelios Anti-imperfections SPF50+ has an anti-wrinkle rating of 2.0 out of 10 so you may expect some, although limited, effect on wrinkles.
  • Very high sun protection for prolonged sun exposure, such as spending the day at the beach, hiking, or outdoor sports.

Slight Moisturizing When Used Alone

According to CreamScan analysis, La Roche-Posay Anthelios Anti-imperfections SPF50+ is slightly moisturizing, with a moisturizing rating of 1.8 out of 10.

Is it more humectant or occlusive? Rather humectant. It has a low occlusivity of 0.2 out of 10 and a moderate humectancy of 3.4 out of 10, primarily due to Niacinamide (est. ≈1.3%), Glycerin (est. ≈0.3%) and Pentylene Glycol (est. ≈0.3%).

This type of product provides relatively light moisturizing on its own but can contribute to overall moisturizing efficacy when used as part of a skincare routine, alongside another moisturizer.

Please refer to the Ratings section below for details of the moisturizing rating calculation.

Some anti-wrinkle efficacy

According to CreamScan analysis, La Roche-Posay Anthelios Anti-imperfections SPF50+ has a slight anti-wrinkle rating of 2.0 out of 10.

It contains one ingredient with proven anti-wrinkle efficacy: Niacinamide (est. ≈1.3%), 
 one of the most effective and well-researched anti-wrinkle ingredients. A clinical study involving 30 participants (Kawada et al.) confirmed that a cream with 4% niacinamide reduced the average depth of wrinkles around the eyes by 9% after 8 weeks of use, compared to a vehicle (the same formulation without niacinamide).
 
Moisturizers, when used regularly, are proven to prevent wrinkle formation and even reduce existing wrinkles. Therefore, this product, like any other moisturizer, can deliver some anti-wrinkle effects through its moisturizing action.
 

Please refer to the Ratings section below for details of the anti-wrinkle rating calculation.

Very high sun protection for prolonged sun exposure, all skin types, and high-risk conditions

With an SPF of 50, La Roche-Posay Anthelios Anti-imperfections SPF50+ provides very high sun protection, suitable for intense sun exposure in tropical climates, beach vacations, or high-altitude environments.

This level of SPF blocks 98% or more of UVB rays, offering the highest level of defense against sunburn. Broad-spectrum formulations also provide strong protection against UVA rays, which are responsible for skin aging, pigmentation, and DNA damage.

For optimal protection, choose products labeled broad-spectrum to ensure defense against both UVA rays, which contribute to skin aging and pigmentation, and UVB rays that cause sunburn.

This level of SPF is ideal for all skin types, particularly fair, sensitive, or post-treatment skin (e.g., after laser or chemical procedures). It is also highly recommended for individuals at greater risk of skin cancer.

For extended outdoor activities or water exposure, choose a water-resistant formula and reapply every two hours for maximum effectiveness.

Ingredients

Est. % Ingredient Origin Functions
60
9
6
4
3
2.5
2
1.5
1.3
1
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
Est. %
Water
Function:
Origin:
Homosalate
Function:
Origin:
Silica
Function:
Origin:
Octocrylene
Function:
Origin:
Octisalate
Function:
Origin:
Avobenzone
Function:
Origin:
Ethylhexyl Triazone
Function:
Origin:
Bis-Ethylhexyloxyphenol Methoxyphenyl Triazine
Function:
Origin:
Niacinamide
Function:
Origin:
Drometrizole Trisiloxane
Function:
Origin:
Glycerin
Function:
Origin:
Pentylene Glycol
Function:
Origin:
Glycol
Function:
Origin:
Dicaprylyl Ether
Function:
Origin:
Aluminum Starch Octenylsuccinate
Function:
Origin:
TEA-Dextrin Octenylsuccinate
Function:
Origin:
Styrene
Function:
Origin:
Potassium Cetyl Phosphate
Function:
Origin:
Perlite
Function:
Origin:
Acrylates/C10-30 Alkyl Acrylate Crosspolymer
Function:
Origin:
Aluminum Hydroxide
Function:
Origin:
Caprylyl Glycol
Function:
Origin:
Inulin Lauryl Carbamate
Function:
Origin:
Isopropyl Lauroyl Sarcosinate
Function:
Origin:
p-Anisic Acid
Function:
Origin:
PEG-8 Laurate
Function:
Origin:
Salicylic Acid
Function:
Origin:
Silica Silylate
Function:
Origin:
Sodium Dodecylbenzenesulfonate
Function:
Origin:
Stearic Acid
Function:
Origin:
Stearyl Alcohol
Function:
Origin:
Terephthalylidene Dicamphor Sulfonic Acid
Function:
Origin:
Titanium Dioxide (CI 77891)
Function:
Origin:
Trisodium Ethylenediamine Disuccinate
Function:
Origin:
Xanthan Gum
Function:
Origin:
Zinc PCA
Function:
Origin:

Ratings

All humectants
3.4
1.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
Benchmark
10
All occlusives
0.3
0.3
Benchmark
20
Moisturizing rating
1.8
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark Raiting
Humectancy All humectants 3.4 10
3.4
1.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
Occlusivity All occlusives 0.3 20
0.2
0.3
Moisturizing rating
1.8
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark Humectancy
1.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
All humectants 3.4 10
3.4
All humectants
3.4
1.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
Benchmark
10
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark Occlusivity
0.3
All occlusives 0.3 20
0.2
All occlusives
0.3
0.3
Benchmark
20
Ingredient
Ingredient anti-wrinkle power
when present at, %
in this formula est. %
Rating
6 /10 4 1.3 2
Total
2
Niacinamide
2
Ingredient anti-wrinkle power
6 /10
when present at, %
4
in this formula, est. %
1.3
Anti-wrinkle rating
2
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark
Rich in Antioxidants
1.3
0.3
All antioxidants 1.6 3 No
All antioxidants
1.6
Niacinamide
1.3
p-Anisic Acid
0.3
Benchmark
3
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark
Rich in Soothing
1.3
0.3
All soothing 1.6 5 No
All soothing
1.6
1.3
0.3
Benchmark
5

Ingredients explained

Water
Est. %60
Function
Origin
WaterThe most used ingredient in skincare. Its concentration defines the product texture: rich creams may have about 50% of water while a light jelly about 90%. Water doesn’t moisturize the skin by itself and is used in skincare as a solvent for other ingredients.
Homosalate
Est. %9
Function
Origin
HomosalateA synthetic chemical UV filter that protects against harmful UVB radiation.
Silica
Est. %6
Function
Origin
SilicaA widely used cosmetic ingredient with the same chemical composition as the sand found on beaches. A common function of silica is its ability to control viscosity. In certain chemical forms, it can effectively thicken cream-style products.
Octocrylene
Est. %4
Function
Origin
OctocryleneA synthetic compound that protects skin against harmful ultraviolet light.
Octisalate
Est. %3
Function
Origin
OctisalateA UVB sunscreen also known as ethylhexyl salicylate. It is normally paired with UVA sunscreens to provide broad-spectrum protection. Octisalate also protects other ingredients, like colorants and antioxidants, from deterioration due to exposure to UV light.
Avobenzone
Est. %2.5
Function
Origin
AvobenzoneA popular sunscreen that protects against UVA rays, which cause premature aging and skin cancer. Avobenzone degrades after about 30 minutes of sun exposure and becomes ineffective. It is therefore often paired with UV-filter stabilizers such as octocrylene.
Ethylhexyl Triazone
Est. %2
Function
Origin
Ethylhexyl Triazone
Bis-Ethylhexyloxyphenol Methoxyphenyl Triazine
Est. %1.5
Function
Origin
Bis-Ethylhexyloxyphenol Methoxyphenyl TriazineA synthetic "chemical" sunscreen ingredient that protects against UV damage and offers better stability and safety compared to some other traditional organic suncreen ingredients.
Niacinamide
Est. %1.3
Function
Origin
Niacinamide

Also known as vitamin B3, this ingredient is a true superstar with confirmed moisturizing, anti-acne, hyperpigmentation, and antioxidant benefits. Two studies confirm its significant anti-wrinkle efficacy.

Drometrizole Trisiloxane
Est. %1
Function
Origin
Drometrizole Trisiloxane
Glycerin
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Glycerin

The most popular moisturizing ingredient in the world. It is a powerful humectant – cheap yet very effective.

Pentylene Glycol
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Pentylene Glycol

A naturally or synthetically derived preservative that exhibits effective antifungal and antibacterial traits. It also acts as a booster for more traditional preservatives. Pentylene glycol can also serve as a moisturizing humectant and solvent.

Glycol
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Glycol
Dicaprylyl Ether
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Dicaprylyl EtherA fast-spreading and very lightweight emollient. It is used to reduce the tack and oiliness of oil-based formulas and gives the skin a dry, silky after-feel. It is also a great solvent.
Aluminum Starch Octenylsuccinate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Aluminum Starch OctenylsuccinateAn absorbent that takes in oils from the skin to reduce the oily sheen. It can also absorb oils from the skincare product itself, resulting in a softer, less greasy product, normally with better spreadability and less tack.
TEA-Dextrin Octenylsuccinate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
TEA-Dextrin Octenylsuccinate
Styrene
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Styrene
Potassium Cetyl Phosphate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Potassium Cetyl PhosphateA powerful emulsifier that can even mix particularly problematic water and oil blends. It is also a surfactant perfect for cleansing products that effectively rinse off oil and dirt particles from the surface of the skin.
Perlite
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Perlite
Acrylates/C10-30 Alkyl Acrylate Crosspolymer
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Acrylates/C10-30 Alkyl Acrylate CrosspolymerA synthetic ingredient that is used to thicken water and alcohol. It results in a more lightweight formula and is commonly found in gel products.
Aluminum Hydroxide
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Aluminum HydroxideA white mineral powder, also known as alumina, that is derived from aluminum metal. It is frequently used as an abrasive in exfoliating products and as a thickener. Aluminum oxide is also a great opacifier.
Caprylyl Glycol
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Caprylyl GlycolAn emollient that improves product spreadability and offers a silky feel on the skin. It also acts as a preservative booster that improves the efficacy of other preservatives. According to the manufacturer, it is also a humectant moisturizer.
Inulin Lauryl Carbamate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Inulin Lauryl Carbamate
Isopropyl Lauroyl Sarcosinate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Isopropyl Lauroyl Sarcosinate
p-Anisic Acid
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
p-Anisic AcidA simple phenolic acid with antioxidant and antimicrobial properties that is used as a preservative. It has a faint, sweet aroma and can be found in anise, fennel, and cocoa seeds.
PEG-8 Laurate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
PEG-8 Laurate
Salicylic Acid
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Salicylic AcidThis effective peeling and anti-inflammatory BHA is used as an anti-acne agent and works by breaking down the junctions between dead skin cells. This results in the peeling of dead skin and the unclogging of pores.
Silica Silylate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Silica SilylateA synthetic powder that thickens oils and features a velvety texture.
Sodium Dodecylbenzenesulfonate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Sodium Dodecylbenzenesulfonate
Stearic Acid
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Stearic AcidA saturated fatty acid found in vegetable butter and animal fats. It is an occlusive moisturizing and emollient ingredient and also helps to maintain the barrier function of the skin.
Stearyl Alcohol
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Stearyl AlcoholA natural fatty alcohol that thickens, stabilizes, and keeps emulsions a bright white color. It has many uses, the main one being as an emulsifier. It also acts as an opacifying agent and emollient.
Terephthalylidene Dicamphor Sulfonic Acid
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Terephthalylidene Dicamphor Sulfonic Acid
Titanium Dioxide (CI 77891)
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Titanium Dioxide (CI 77891)One of two the most commonly used mineral sunscreens. It can absorb UV light, including UVB – which causes burning, tanning, and even skin cancer. Also used as a colorant, titanium dioxide gives a product a bright white color.
Trisodium Ethylenediamine Disuccinate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Trisodium Ethylenediamine DisuccinateA chelating agent that disables harmful heavy metal ions present in skincare.
Xanthan Gum
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Xanthan GumA natural multi-functional ingredient that originates from fermented sugars. Xanthan gum acts as a viscosity-building agent to thicken skincare products. It is also an excellent stabilizer and works well to hold other ingredients together.
Zinc PCA
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Zinc PCAA two-part ingredient: Zinc helps to control sebum and bacteria in acne-prone skin, while skin-identical PCA is a moisturizing humectant. Zinc PCA may even boost collagen production and so is researched as a potential anti-wrinkle ingredient.