Avène Cicalfate+ serum: OK hydration, nothing special for redness

Many people know the Cicalfate line from its repairing cream. The serum from the same line promises a stronger barrier and less redness, so I tried it on my rosacea skin.

What the brand says

• Strengthens the skin barrier and helps prevent dehydration, dryness, dullness, imperfections, redness and premature ageing.
• Gives instant relief and lastingly reduces feelings of tightness and discomfort.
• A hydrating, repairing formula for skin weakened by daily stressors, with Avène thermal spring water, glycerin and panthenol.
• 96 % ingredients of natural origin, no alcohol, silicones or fragrance.

My experience

Let's start with the packaging: I don't like the pump, it feels cheap. I know the contents matter most, but from a serum in this price range I expect nicer packaging too.

The serum itself hydrates OK. My skin doesn't feel tight and it's comfortable under cream. But when it comes to redness I didn't notice it doing anything special, and that was my main reason for buying it.

Who is it for

For sensitive skin that needs a simple hydrating serum without fragrance or alcohol. If you're looking for a serum that will visibly reduce rosacea redness, this isn't it.