212-920-7192

Breaking Down the Bottle: Lotion P50

They call it a “Facial in a Bottle”- Biologique Recherche’s most iconic product, Lotion P50 is an exfoliating and purifying lotion for the face. With many variations of it, many stray away from trying simply because, they do not know which one would be best for their skin. Do not fret! Reading this will help you make an informed decision and leave you loving your new skincare staple!


For those unfamiliar, Biologique Recherche is a French Biological skincare line that takes a unique clinical approach to skincare and uses intentionally pure, concentrated, raw, and active ingredients that provide transforming results. Their formulas combine authenticity and balance, with their raw ingredients being the reason behind the often pungent scents. Besides that, Biologique Recherche products:

  • Use plant, bio marine and biotechnological extracts at very high concentrations- above 20% in most products
  • Rule our the use of synthetic fragrances, to preserve the integrity of the formulas and try to avoid any adverse reactions
  • Retain the original structure of the active ingredients as far as possible, by maximizing the use of cold processing in the majority of their formulas.

This cornerstone product, Lotion P50, is not a lotion at all. It is an exfoliating toner composed of a blend of many acids like lactic acid, salicylic acid, horseradish and onion which explains the pungent scent. It has many variations but all of them work to regulate sebum, enhance the skin’s natural glow, balance the skin’s pH, shrink pore size and even skin tone. Now, to “Break down the Bottle”, there are three categories of Lotion P50: New Formula, Old Formula and Pigmentation. Each variation is targeted to the specific needs of each skin type. It is important to note the differences of strength in these lotions indicated by letters V (medium) and W (mild) while the absence of a letter means the formula is strong.

New Formula:
Lotion P50 – for normal / thick skin STRONG
Lotion P50V – for dehydrated / dry and mature skin MEDIUM
Lotion P50W – for acne sensitive / rosacea skin MILD


Old Formula:
Lotion P50 1970 – for acne normal / thick skin STRONG contains phenol (you can’t use it if you’re pregnant)
Lotion P50V 1970 – for acne dehydrated / dry skin MEDIUM/MILD contains phenol (you can’t use it if you’re pregnant)

Pigmentation:
Lotion P50 PIGM 400 – for hyperpigmentation, melasma and discoloration MEDIUM


The Biologique Recherche Lotion P50 PIGM 400 is specially formulated for dull complexions with hyper-pigmentation and dark spots. Like the bestselling original Biologique Recherche P50 formula, it is an all in one toner, exfoliator and brightening lotion with anti-pigmentation benefits. This formulation of Lotion P50 specifically targets dark spots, lightens the skin, reduces the size of pigmentation marks and prevents them from reappearing.

You might be wondering how to use the magic in the bottle, P50 is a liquid exfoliant so you can use it in the morning as well as the evening. The first week, apply a few drops of Lotion P50 onto a damp esthetic wipe and gently pad over face, neck and decollete, beginning with the decollete and working up toward the face. On subsequent days, a dry cotton pad should be used. If tingling is felt as the skin’s pH is balancing itself, some Biologique Recherche Eauxygénante sprayed on the face will alleviate it. However, it is crucial that users wear sunscreen as they are applying strong acids to the face and exposing the skin to the sun can cause a burn.

The best way to narrow down which one would be best for you is through a consultation. Biologique Recherche products are only distributed through licensed retailers, including Opulence Glamour Skin Clinic. I can help you choose which one will best suit your skin.

Try it! Schedule your consultation today and start experiencing the Magic of Lotion P50.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *