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In a world where French skincare products are among the best worldwide, Biologique Recherche Lotion P50 Toners are the most popular amongst skincare enthusiasts, beauty editors, and celebrities alike. Almost everyone with the remotest interest in skincare products has heard of the “Cult Favorite” Lotion P50. It is what many in the skincare world refer to as "a facial in a bottle" and has received several awards, including the “#1 Skincare Product of All Time” by multiple beauty magazines and the “Best Designer Toner of All Time” by Allure Magazine.
Biologique Recherche is an artisanal luxury French skincare company founded in the 1970s by Yvan and Josette Allouche and guided by their son Dr. Philipp Alouche.
But just because skincare gurus, editors, aestheticians, and even dermatologists sing the praises of a product doesn't mean it's good for you, and that is because you want to know if it's worth it for you at the end of the day.
Plus, the average person knows better than to jump onto the bandwagon of a product just because it has a lot of hype on social media. So, like many others, you need to know if this product is any good.
Fortunately, this article answers every question about the Biologique Recherche Lotion P50, so read on.
What is Biologique Recherche Lotion P50?
Lotion P50 refers to a group of multi-purpose skincare products capable of combining the benefits of exfoliating, purifying, toning, and moisturizing lotion to enable the reconstitution of the epidermal shield. Once reinforced, the epidermis fully protects and promotes the auto-renewing capabilities of the skin.
As its name indicates, the Lotions P50 gently renew the skin over 50 days – 'P' stands for peeling and '50' stands for 50 days – which represents about two epidermal cycles for a gentle yet effective exfoliating process.
Each Biologique Recherche Lotion P50 is designed for a particular skin type and produces a specific result. However, they also contain common ingredients which ensure that users get certain benefits irrespective of the variant used. Overall, lotion P50 is perfect for reconditioning the epidermis due to its low pH, exfoliating, antiseptic, and moisturizing properties. Lotion P50 1970 is cold formulated and enriched with vitamins and highly active botanical ingredients for long-lasting results.
Understanding How Lotion P50 Works
The first Lotion P50 dates back to 1970 when Dr. Yvan Allouche created it as a daily exfoliating lotion. Today, this skincare product is made with research-backed knowledge and skincare science to help the epidermis reach and reveal its intrinsic regenerative properties. It achieves this through the six different liquid formulas designs for different skin types and issues.
Irrespective of the type you buy, they all perform pretty similarly. Every version of Lotion P50 enables the breakdown of dead skin cells, boost skin-cell turnover, decongest pores, balance the skin barrier, and hydrate skin depending on the specific type of formula you use.
Besides these, P50 also promotes the efficacy of the creams, serums, or essences you layer on top, which is partly why it's so popular in the skincare world.
Types of P50 Lotions
Below are the different types of P50 Lotions currently available on the market.
P50 1970 - As earlier stated, this is the original formula, the OG P50, as some would say. It is also currently the most potent formula. Its ingredients include power exfoliators such as vinegar, salicylic acid, and lactic acid. Together, they help resurface the skin. It's most suitable for "tough," acne-prone, or super-oily skin.
P50 - This formula has a lot in common with P50 1970. However, it lacks phenol. It's also perfect for blackheads, oily skin, or ache that doesn't result in sensitivity or redness.
P50V 1970 and P50V - These two are the medium-potency formulas suitable for dull or dry skin types. Apart from containing AHAs, PHAs, and BHAs (unclogging and smoothing acids), these formulas also reduce inflammation and illuminate the skin. But while the older P50V 1970 formula has phenol, the more recent lotion P50V lacks it.
P50W - Those with sensitive skin or just starting with exfoliating acids will find the P50W variant more suitable. It's the mildest of all the Biologique Recherche Lotion P50 formulas on the market. Hence, it's the best bet for those prone to experience irritation or redness.
P50 Pigm 400- This variant was created solely for anyone who experiences hyperpigmentation such as melasma or dark spots. It's weaker than the P50 1970. Yet, it effectively exfoliates dead skin cells to smoothen your skin tone. Plus, it also enables your skin to regulate melanin production.
Common Ingredients in Lotion P50 Formulas
As you would expect from a luxury skincare product of this caliber, each P50 formula shares some active ingredients. These ingredients exist in categories, namely:
Exfoliating platform - These include alpha-hydroxy acids (lactic acids, malic acid, and citric acid), cider vinegar, beta hydroxy acid (salicylic acid), polyhydroxy acid (gluconolactone), phytic acid, levulinic acid, and sulfur.
Purifying platform- The ingredients under this category are magnesium chloride, horseradish extract, vitamin B3 (niacinamide), and burdock extract.
Sebum regulating platform - The ingredients here are onion extract, thyme essential oil, yeast extract, and capsicum extract.
Smoothing platform - The ingredients that serve as smoothing agents include soapbark extract, sponge extract, and walnut extract.
Soothing platform - Arnica extract, a herbaceous perennial plant, provides the only anti-inflammatory ingredient in this category.
Lightening and anti-dark spot platform- Comprises ingredients like complex fruits titrated in flavonoids and AHAs and Palmaria palmata extract.
Benefits of Lotion P50
Due to the different formulas, almost everyone can find a Lotion P50 variant that works for their unique skin type and issues. But first, it's vital to understand the differences between each formula. You should also know your skin type and the conditions or solutions it needs. With this information, you can make the most of your Lotion P50.
Nevertheless, some clinically observed effects on the skin following superficial exfoliation with this product include:
- Removal of the utmost rough layers of the skin, increasing its radiance and brightening the skin.
- Frees the epidermis of impurities that clog the pores.
- Smoothens the skin's surface through moderate inflammatory edema and minor epidermal hyperplasia, which act on fine lines present in the skin.
Next, you have to figure out how to apply the product for the best results.
Who Can Use Biologique Recherche Lotion P50
Due to the wide range of formulas, almost every skin type can benefit from Lotion P50. According to the brand, it's designed specifically for the following skin types:
- Oily skin - This product helps bring sebum production under control and enhances the purification of pores.
- Sensitive skin - Lotion P50 contains acids and arnica extract, which help soothe sensitive skin.
- Dry skin - Contains high levels of humectant and natural moisturizing factors, which ensures dry skin remains refreshed.
If you're trying to decide which version of Lotion P50 is best for you, the best way forward is to talk to an expert. Experts at Paul Labrecque will be able to analyze your skin condition and determine whether you need products like Masque Vivant to rebalance or which Lotion P50 to begin using. Paul Labrecque located in NYC and Palm Beach is the Original Biologique Recherche Skincare Spa in the USA. They have partnered with the Biologique Recherche brand for 22 years now with trusted product knowledge and professional spa facial treatments.
How to Use Lotion P50
To unlock the potential of the glow-up effects of Lotion P50, you need some tips and tricks. First, it's essential to know that the objective is to use Lotion P50 over your face, neck, and chest twice daily. But not before you cleanse your skin. Also, P50 must always come before your moisturizers and serums.
However, here's a vital detail to take down, you'll have to gradually work your way to this frequency because certain skin types can't handle the Lotion P50 routine twice daily. In your first week trying Lotion P50, it's advisable to dilute it to minimize the risk of early-stage irritation.
Also, you want to be mindful that a slight redness isn't necessarily unusual, especially during the early days of use. However, prolonged irritation isn't, and you need to stop applying Lotion P50 if your skin feels or looks irritated for long periods after application. Luckily, there are gentle versions ideal for hypersensitive skin or rosacea, and in this case, once a day should be the maximum.
Whether you're new to Lotion P50 or already using it, we recommend talking with an expert at one of Biologique Recherche Skincare Spas before following the step-by-step guide to start using Lotion P50.
Step-by-step Approach to Using Lotion P50
Begin With a Clean Base
Before you even reach for your Lotion P50 or any other facial toner, it's mandatory to clean your face. The best option is an all-natural cleanser like Biologique Recherche Lait VIP 02, which helps remove impurities caught on the face during the day. As you cleanse before using, you rid your skin of any reactive substances and provide P50 a clean canvas to work its wonders.
Apply Your Toner
This is the point you apply your Lotion P50 facial toner. The best approach for most users is to let a cotton pad soak the toner and use it to pat over the entire face, neck, and chest in an upward motion. When starting with your lotion P50, it's crucial not to overstimulate. Even though it's labeled an "exfoliant," you need to go gently when applying your preferred P50 variant. Never rub the product into the skin; instead, dab gently and allow it to dry. Any redness, numbness, or stinging isn't a cause for alarm; such sensations are normal.
Use Oxygenating Mist to Soothe Irritated Skin
For skin types prone to dryness, extreme sensitivity, or irritation, it's recommended that you use L'Eauxygenante oxygenating mist to soothe your skin. With this oxygenating mist, you can refresh, hydrate, and beautify your skin, which helps you overcome redness resulting from Lotion P50 use.
Apply a Serum
After applying Lotion P50, there are many Biologique Recherche Customs Serums that could help you obtain the best results from this French skincare product. An excellent example is the Serum COLOSTRUM VG that helps nourish and rehydrate your skin type.
Moisturize
To help lock in the various benefits of the active ingredient of your lotion P50, you may also consider applying any Biologique Recherche moisturizers to your face and eyes, depending on your skin type. For those with dry skins, the Creme Dermo-RL is a perfect option to consider.
Protect Your Skin With a Finish Serum
Finishing serums have larger molecules than other serum types. This makes them capable of sealing the skin so that previously applied products remain locked in for deep and enduring penetration. Also, BR serums such as Fluide VIP 02 safeguards your skin from foreign elements that can harm the skin.
Apply a Sun Protection Cream
Every fan of luxury skincare products knows that the daily skincare routine isn't complete without sunscreen. Lotion P50 can render your skin more responsive to sun rays. Thus, applying PROTECTION UV is necessary if you'll be outdoors after using P50.
Achieve That Head To Toe Glow With Lotion P50 For Hair, Scalp & Body
The Lotion P50 Toners are not just for your face. Biologique Recherche has formulated a Lotion P50 Toner for Hair & Scalp as well as the Body. These two products formulations are based on the same principles as the bestselling cult favorite Biologique Recherche Lotion P50 for face but is adapted to hair and body care.
Biologique Recherche Lotion P50 Capillaire is a P50 Lotion for hair and scalp. It helps to strengthen hair, increases hair fiber resistance, and improves texture, shine and manageability for the perfect blowout. This lotion also helps balance pH, regulate sebum secretion and lightly exfoliate the scalp. A multi-purpose hair and scalp lotion gently purifies and moisturizes. Recommended for seborrheic (oily) scalps, the highly active ingredients include; horseradish, lemon, sage, myrrh and burdock extracts, witch hazel and purifying poly-alpha-beta hydroxy complex.
Biologique Recherche Lotion P50 Corps gently exfoliates and balances the epidermis on the body, shoulders, legs and back. Use of the Lotion P50 Corps is an essential stage in preparing the epidermis. Lotion P50 Corps is rich in Poly-Alpha-Beta-Hydroxy-Acids, Nettle and Lemon extracts. This exfoliating lotion gently tones and balances skin acidity levels, preparing the body for the next treatments and application of body creams and sun protection.
Where Can I Buy Biologique Recherche Lotion P50?
Judging from the reputation of this product, it's not the type that you can find in any cosmetic retailer, especially if you want a genuine product. You can only get the real deal from authorized retailers like Paul Labrecque. From these sources, you can choose to order online or walk into any of these shops to make a purchase.
How Much Does Lotion P50 Cost?
These luxury skincare products start at $31 for the travel size and $70 for a full-size 5oz product that will last up to 8 weeks. The cost is indicative of the quality and the performance-driven results you will see from ongoing use. Keep in mind there are many replicas and counterfeit products out on the market. Always purchase your Lotion P50 from an Authorized Biologique Recherche Skincare Spa-like Paul Labrecque to ensure you receive authentic and 100% guaranteed genuine product.
Who Shouldn't Use Lotion P50?
If you use retinol, you want to stay away from every P50 formula. Simply put, you can't use the two products simultaneously. Hence, combining them could cause irritation and other unfavorable effects. Apart from this, laser treatment or chemical peel is also something you want to avoid for no less than one week after you start using this lotion. Finally, the sun and this product are not suitable matches due to their acid content. Therefore, if you spend a lot of time in the sun, at the beach, or outdoors, you might want to lay off lotion P50.
Is Lotion P50 Worth It?
Honestly, of all the previous exfoliating toners you have tried, few will ever hope to rival the P50 or produce its results. For most users, the most noticeable changes take a month, by which time the skin looks brighter, smoother, and considerably less congested. It's ideal if you have naturally oily skin or are prone to blackheads.
Biologique Recherche Lotion P50 is the type of skincare product that is so effective that once you use it, nothing else will feel quite the same, explaining the cult-like following. Starting at $70, this toner is no joke. But the Lotion P50 isn't your average toner or skincare product, for that matter.
