If you’re into skincare, you’ve likely been tempted by the French skincare brand Biologique Recherche at some point. Even though their packaging is a bit old school (I’m typically only drawn to pretty packaging), their products truly deliver glowing results that many celebrities swear by.
Their most well-known product is undoubtedly Lotion P50—a balancing exfoliator infused with ingredients such as onion extract, vinegar and horseradish that helps minimize the appearance of dark spots and pores while balancing complexion.
When I started my beauty Instagram account last year, I honestly had never heard of Biologique Recherche before. It wasn’t until several friends kept telling me about Lotion P50 saying “it was the best product they’ve ever tried,” that I decided I needed to try it too—just to be sure.
I finally caved around Christmas, so I’ve been using it for 9+ months now, and I’m definitely grateful for those friends (even if my bank account isn’t!) Below, I’m giving you the full 4-1-1 on the product—from how to use P50 to how much it costs, and whether or not it’s truly all it’s cracked up to be.
Biologique Recherche P50 Review
Lotion P50 is easily one of my “can’t live without” products and it’s always included in my list of top skincare products that I recommend. I tend to break out easily, but when I use P50 consistently (AM and PM) my skin stays clear for the most part, my complexion looks brighter, my skin-tone is more even, I have fewer blackheads, and my dark spots are SIGNIFICANTLY less noticeable.
There are several different formulations of P50, each tailored for specific skin types (oily, sensitive, mature, etc.) and concerns (i.e., hyperpigmentation).
I’ve tried the original (1970), P50, and P50 PIGM400. Here’s how they’re different:
P50 1970: the original formulation is the strongest and shouldn’t be used on sensitive skin. It also contains phenol, an acid ingredient that’s been banned from use in cosmetics in many countries due to its potential as a lung and skin irritant. This version is also the only one deemed unsafe for use in pregnancy.
P50: This is basically the original formulation sans phenol, and it’s recommended for normal to oily skin.
P50 PIGM400: This is the version that I use on a daily basis, because it has been formulated specifically for hyperpigmentation. Compared to the other two versions that I’ve tried, this one seems to be the mildest. It doesn’t sting at all, and the scent is not overpowering. In general, the P50 scent isn’t pleasant—you can definitely smell the vinegar—but it doesn’t deter me from using the product. The 1970 and P50 smell the worst in my opinion.
(If you’re also struggling with hyperpigmentation, be sure check out our experience getting Fraxel laser treatment.)
Some of the other versions that I haven’t tested include P50V (vitamin-enriched for mature skin) and P50W (milder version for sensitive skin).
How to Use P50:
P50 is a liquid exfoliant, so I use it AM and PM after washing my face in place of a toner. I then layer myserum, moisturizer, sunscreen, and eye cream on top of it. (A hyaluronic acid serum is a great compliment to P50.)
In the AM, I’ll wait a few minutes until it dries before applying my everyday makeup.
Rather than how you would apply a toner (swiping/rubbing across your skin), you should apply a few splashes onto a gauze or cotton pad (these are my favorite)and then press and release the product into your skin moving up the side of your face. This application method helps to avoid redness and irritation.
In the PM, you could also use a facial roller after application to help the product penetrate.
Because it’s such a powerful exfoliant, it’s intended to be used prior to masks to help the mask sinks into your skin deeper. I HIGHLY recommend trying their Masque Vivant, which the brand claims “if you use at least twice a week, you’ll never age.”
Important note: if you’re obsessed with at-home dermaplaning like we are, you should avoid using P50 immediately after you dermaplane, as the fresh skin is particularly sensitive.
How much does P50 cost?
I’m not going to lie, Biologique products are pretty pricey but SO worth the splurge. The cost of P50 depends on the size bottle you buy.
I started out with a mini (~$30 for 1.7 oz) but as with all Biologique products that I’ve tried, I’ve learned that I should have just splurged in the first place because the medium size is a much better deal (~$70 for 5.1 oz). There’s also a large, 8.5 oz bottle available for ~$120.
If you’re tempted to try a little bit of everything, Biologique also makes this travel gift pack set for $287.
Where can you buy P50?
There are two online retailers that I use to purchase my Biologique products: Toska Spa and Rescue Spa. I have had great experiences with them and highly recommend them both! My Biologique obsession has basically been cultivated from both of these websites since they send free Biologique samples with any order (depending on supply).
I’ve now accumulated amass of about 50 Biologique samples and have repurchased several full sized products after loving the samples (including Crème Dermopurifiante, Masque Vivant, Vip Lait O2 and a few serums)…oops!
[Editor’s Note: it’s also available on Amazon!]
Biologique Recherche Serum Review:
Photo credit: @biologique_recherche
Speaking of serums, Biologique has TONS of them and it can be a little overwhelming when trying to find the best one for your skin type. I did a lot of research before purchasing (they aren’t the most wallet-friendly at an average of $~70 for a tiny ampule and $~130 for a larger ampule) and I ended up with Serum Placenta and Serum Complexe Iribiol.
Photo credit: @biologique_recherche
These are both great for oily and/or acne-prone skin and I have re-purchased both. FYI, Serum Placenta smells absolutely terrible but it’s very effective! They have a water-like consistency so I apply them after p50 and before my moisturizer.
Both online retailers that I mentioned above have online specialists to help you discover the best serum for your skin-type, or you can always head to a local Biologique spa where you can get a customized Biologique facial and have your esthetician recommend some (I’m DYING to have this done!).
Holly Sims is a beauty-product obsessed clinical pharmacist from Birmingham, Alabama. She shares all of her skincare and makeup expertise on her “Insta-Blog.” Follow her here: @thehollyhighlight
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