A richer take on the Hyalu B5 line, now with SPF 30 and a plush texture best suited for cooler temps and dry skin days.
A few years ago, I fell for the La Roche-Posay Hyalu B5 Aquagel SPF 30. It even made my Best of 2021 list. And while I still like that formula, my sunscreen horizons have definitely expanded since moving to Spain. Still, when I spotted a jar labeled NEW at a neighborhood pharmacy—La Roche-Posay Hyalu B5 Suractivated Cream SPF 30—I didn’t hesitate. Into the basket it went. Here are my first impressions.
What is Hyalu B5, again?
The Hyalu B5 range is all about hydration and barrier support. If you’re not deep in the ingredient weeds, the name is a clue: “Hyalu” refers to Hyaluronic Acid, and “B5” is Vitamin B5, also known as Panthenol. Together, they hydrate, soothe, and help reinforce the skin’s moisture barrier. That’s the elevator pitch.
La Roche-Posay positions the line as anti-aging care for sensitive skin. In true French pharmacy fashion, fragrance makes an appearance but it’s tucked toward the very end of the INCI list. Personally, I don’t rely on the Hyalu B5 range exclusively. My face washes are usually Toleriane or Effaclar, and for body I love Lipikar. When it comes to SPF, it took me years to warm up to Anthelios, but the new UVAir launch finally won me over. So yes, I’m picky. But this new Hyalu B5 Suractivated Cream SPF 30 had me curious. And I’m glad I picked it up.
Also, in keeping with current ingredient trends, La Roche-Posay spotlights Ectoin in this new formula. This amino acid derivative is known for its deeply hydrating and anti-inflammatory properties, making it a fantastic UV-stress shield. It’s especially appreciated by skin that’s easily irritated, redness-prone, or feeling the effects of environmental overexposure.
What is Suractivated?
No, really. I’m asking you. Because for the life of me, I can’t figure it out. At first, I thought it said superactivated, but no—it’s suractivated. After 25 years of being a diligent skincare user, I’ve learned to tune out a lot of marketing fluff. Maybe this name is part of that. Still, if anyone at L’Oréal can shed some light from behind the scenes, I’m all ears.
About those UV filters
The formula relies on four chemical filters that deliver broad-spectrum SPF 30 protection. Only two of them are FDA-approved in the U.S., which likely means this version will remain EU-exclusive. All four, however, are proven and highly effective.
| Ingredient | Trade Name | EU Approved | US Approved | Function |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Phenylbenzimidazole Sulfonic Acid | Ensulizole | ✅ | ✅ | UVB filter |
| Butyl Methoxydibenzoylmethane | Avobenzone | ✅ | ✅ | UVA filter |
| Ethylhexyl Triazone | Uvinul T 150 | ✅ | ❌ | UVB filter |
| Bis-Ethylhexyloxyphenol Methoxyphenyl Triazine | Tinosorb S | ✅ | ❌ | Broad-spectrum (UVA + UVB) |
Texture, finish, and how I use it
This is not your airy, gel-based sunscreen. The texture is creamy and substantial; best suited for normal to dry skin types or anyone dealing with cooler, drier weather. It would’ve been too rich for me during Madrid’s summer, but now that the temperatures have dropped, I’m enjoying it.
If you’re layering serums, keep it simple. This plays best with a minimalist routine. I’ve been using one serum—either Vitamin C or a peptide—letting it fully absorb, then applying the Hyalu B5 SPF. It doesn’t pill, sits nicely, and has a slightly occlusive feel that’s more cushiony than greasy. It’s not tacky or sticky, but it is noticeable, like a soft, flexible hold on the skin rather than a coating of product. Since the filters are 100% chemical, there is 0% chance of any white cast. Because science. And logic.
For those who wear makeup, using pigmented formulas over this new La Roche-Posay may be a challenge. I found that some bronzers did pill (like the Dr. Hauschka Translucent Bronzing Tint) but others did very well, (like the Jones Road Gel Bronzer). The truth is, trial and error is the only way to find out what works and what may need an application tweak.
Final thoughts
La Roche-Posay is known for its featherlight sunscreens, and this one breaks that mold. If you already love the Hyalu B5 line for its hydration and barrier support, you’ll probably adore this new iteration. But if you live in a hot, humid climate, it might feel too rich for daytime wear. For me, it’s a fall and winter staple—and I can easily see the jar empty before the year’s out.
I am unable to locate it anywhere other than Spain at the moment. It is appearing in more local pharmacies around here. You can also find it on amazon.es where it runs around 40 euro a jar (50ml and refillable). It is also at primor.eu where you can find it at 30% off.
The product page on Spanish brand website has a helpful pharmacy locator as well.
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