Often, when you finally get your hands on the one item you want most ever, you can feel one of two ways – elated at discovering what a truly AMAZING product it is, or bitterly disappointed.
Getting my hands on Biologique Recherche Lotion P50 was like getting my hands on the Holy Grail and left me feeling a little worried.
Would I love it, or would it just be an overhyped piece of crap?
What is the Biologique Recherche Lotion P50?
I’d heard so much about Lotion P50, which is an acid toner, a lotion/toner that you use on skin after cleansing and before the rest of your skincare. Toners with acids like these serve an exfoliating function, smoothing imperfections, unblocking pores and leaving your skin looking brighter and smoother.
I’d been using a few different ones for a while, and they’ve made a difference to my skin. But the ultimate measure of an exfoliation lotion toner has always been the Biologique Recherche Lotion P50, based on my online research. The main problem is that it’s so hard to find. So. Hard!
Biologique Recherche is incredibly hard to buy!
Biologique Recherche is a salon brand, that is only sold at specialist salons and online, only at certain websites. In fact, if you were to look online, there’s no website that will ship internationally, and it’s HELL trying to find the price of the products.
The best way is to find yourself a salon, walk in and buy it. Or get a friend with access to a salon or website to buy it for you. There really is no other way!
I bought mine from the Biologique Recherche head office on Ave. Champs Elysees, Paris, the home base of Biologique Recherche. I actually walked up and down Champs Elysees multiple times, because I couldn’t find the entrance!
Turned out that the Biologique Recherche store is located in the inner courtyard of No. 32 Av. Champs Elysee, set back from the sidewalk. Anyone would miss it! You walk between a gloomy archway, and find yourself in a pretty cobblestone courtyard, with the double doors of the salon in front of you.
The salon was quiet but fortunately, they seem quite used to people wandering in, enquiring about the famed Lotion P50.
Because I was new to using Lotion P50, I was recommended Lotion P50W, a slightly lighter formula for newbies. There are a few different versions and it comes in various sizes.
I bought the medium 150ml size, which I kind of regret now, because I should have just bought the largest bottle they had in store. Yes, I guess you can tell that I’m a convert! 😀
How to use Biologique Recherche Lotion P50W
The first thing you’d notice about Lotion P50, is the smell. It smells vinegary, so if you are put off by scents like that, you’d be turned off. I’m not fussed (I’m only put off by strong floral scents) so I was fine with it.
The second thing was that I was told to expect a tingling on my skin. Lotion P50W is a more gentle version of the exfoliating and purifying lotion. I didn’t notice any tingling on my skin. I’m not sure if it’s because I’m used to using an exfoliating toner, but there was no tingling. I was a little disappointed, but I plan to get my hands on a more potent version soon, so I will see if that gives me the tingling feeling.
UPDATE: I have been using Lotion P50 since, and it initially tingled a little, but not anymore
I use it by shaking out some product onto a piece of cotton pad, and then wiping it all over my face, neck and decolletage (always take your skincare down to your chest!).
I don’t pour out too much because it’s so damned precious! You don’t need very much anyway, because you’re not trying to soak your face in it. Just enough to get the cotton pad moving smoothly against your skin.
I’ve read of people using it by pouring some product on their hands and wiping on their face to avoid wastage. Because this is an exfoliating product, I don’t personally think that’s the best way to do it, because the cotton pad helps apply a more even layer, and also to lift off some of the dead skin cells. I’d use the hand method with a hydrating toner (yes, there are differences!)
If you are new to using Lotion P50, you are recommended to pour the lotion on a damp cotton pad, then wipe it over your skin. This makes it less irritating.
What to expect from using Lotion P50W
To be perfectly honest, in the first two weeks of use, I wasn’t sure what I was supposed to expect. Nothing looked or felt different. I’d use it in the day, and occasionally at night, on days when I didn’t use Alpha-H Liquid Gold – I’m big on acids 😀
RELATED READING: Acid toners – do you really need them? READ HERE
It wasn’t until I stopped using it for a while, that I noticed the difference. The main thing I noticed was how Lotion P50W helped keep my skin spot-free. While I’m now primarily breakout-free *touchwood* I do get the occasional spot, especially around that time of the month. I’ve stopped getting that.
I’ve also stopped experiencing clogged pores and whiteheads, especially around the sides of my cheek and chin area. If I notice a clogged pore starting, or if I get a spot, it usually goes away after about 2 days of using Lotion P50.
My skin is so much clearer. I believe it’s the combination of Lotion P50W together with my Vitamin C serum and all my various products, that has also helped my skintone even itself out, but it is really Lotion P50W that’s made my skin look and feel smoother and more refined.
I use Lotion P50W immediately after cleansing, to allow it to exfoliate my skin with its acids. I feel this one to be quite gentle, and not drying at all. It’s supposed to also balance your skin’s PH after your cleansing, and I then follow up with a spritz of facial mist, before I move on with the rest of my skincare routine.
RELATED READING: Want to add more moisture and hydration to your skin? Read about my moisture sandwich technique! READ HERE
I also use this both day and night. But if you’re using other acid-based products, you might want to be a little more careful.
For example, in my evening routine, I sometimes use Liquid Gold or a Lactic Acid based serum like Sunday Riley Good Genes, or the REN Wake Wonderful serum. On those days, I won’t use this toner so as not to over-exfoliate my skin. Mixing and matching skincare is fine, so long as you pay attention to what you’re mixing, and how your skin is taking to it.
The primary acids are AHA (lactic acid, citric acid, malic acid, phytic acid), BHA (salicylic acid) and PHA (gluconolactone) for exfoliating. Niacinamide is also included, which is an ingredient used to strengthen and improve skin texture; alongside with a host of hydrating agents, antioxidants and anti-inflammatory agents.
I totally get the raves for Lotion P50 and I’m intending to keep it as a staple in my routine. The Pixi Glow Tonic is touted as an affordable and easier to find alternative. I’ve used both, and while I do have stock of Glow Tonic in my skincare cabinet, I’m happier with the results from the Biologique Recherche Lotion P50, that I feel is more visible on my skin.
Perhaps my skin is older so I take better to this as opposed to Glow Tonic? I’m not sure. They’re both good products, and I’m happy to use them both. But sometimes you have to choose, and as much as it pains me to say this, I choose the Lotion P50.
IN A NUTSHELL
The Biologique Recherche Lotion P50W is a slightly more gentle version of the Lotion P50, and recommended for those who are new to using the product. You can step up to Lotion P50 after that if you prefer, which I intend to. The watery liquid smells sharp and vinegary although I’m used to it. Pour some onto a cotton pad and wipe it over your skin. I find that it refreshes my skin, provides gentle exfoliation, isn’t drying and keeps my skin clog-free and spot-free. My skin also looks better and more refined with regular use. I’m keeping this as a staple!
PROS: Not drying, Gentle, Helps unclog pores and keep my skin clog-free and spot-free, Skin looks brighter and more refined, Transformative product for dull, tired, aging skin
CONS: Very hard to find or buy online, Scent isn’t very pleasant to everyone, May sting skin for some
WHO WILL LIKE THIS: Anyone who uses an exfoliating toner
PRICE: Approx €45+ for 150ml (I can’t remember the exact price I paid) | RM149 for 50ml and RM349 for 150ml
WHERE TO BUY: Ambassade Biologique Recherche at Starhill Gallery, salons and authorised distributors, The Spa at Mandarin Oriental Hotel Kuala Lumpur.
For those interested, here is the ingredient list for the Biologique Recherche Lotion P50W.
For those in Malaysia going “I wish we could buy it here!” Well, now you can! 😀
Biologique Recherche and Lotion P50 in Malaysia
2023 Update: Scrap all you’ll read below. Ambassade Biologique Recherche has opened at Starhill Gallery Kuala Lumpur and you can get all the skincare and skin treatments there!
When I was in the store in Paris chatting to the sales assistant (we spoke English – my French is merde 😛 ) the brand Export Manager happened to stop by the store, and we got to talking. Imagine my surprise when she told me that yes, they had just appointed a distributor in Malaysia, so I could still get my Biologique Recherche stuff when I got home! Hallelujah! 😀 😀
I was put in touch with the local distributor, who happens to be currently based in the state of Malacca. I was told they will be opening a salon in Kuala Lumpur soon, but as with everything, I’ll believe it when I see it. I’d be very excited if there was a proper salon of course, where I can go and explore the other products in the brand. I’d be wary about buying the products from anyone who isn’t the official distributor, as you just never know with these things, and how they react on your skin. I’d much rather have peace of mind, but you do what you’re happy with 🙂
I was also forewarned by Paris that in Malaysia (or possibly Asia), due to pharmaceutical requirements, they carry the Lotion P50T here.
Lotion P50T has a strength that’s in between P50W and P50 but otherwise performs the same function, so don’t think that you’re getting fakes 🙂
I haven’t bought from the local distributor yet, but I was told they can send it by courier. I’m waiting for it to be available in KL, so I can buy it personally, and I’m also waiting to see if a friend can help me get the Lotion P50 from overseas. I’m just a little over halfway through my Lotion P50W which has me worried, but it will last quite a while. It’s lasted me about 3 months thus far, so I’m not doing too badly! If anyone’s going to Paris though, please be my Lotion P50 mule?! Pretty please? 😛
2017 UPDATE: Biologique Recherche products are available at The Spa at Mandarin Oriental Hotel Kuala Lumpur. Lotion P50T is RM390 for 150ml and Lotion P50 PIGM 400 is RM430 for 150ml at time of writing.
Have you tried this highly raved Biologique Recherche Lotion P50? Have you heard of it before?
It’s kind of a big thing if you’re into using exfoliating toners and acids, and if you’re big on skincare in general. But please read this bit of warning about using acid toners and how they can affect your skin. I’m very happy I’ve finally tried it, and I’m even happier that it lives up to all its claims. As hard as it is to find, it is truly Holy Grail material, deserving of the pedestal it’s placed on. I’m also glad it’s not impossible to get locally! 🙂 Have you used it?
Paris B
Take a day trip to Malacca! 😀
LOL! Ya maybe I should, just to stock up and eat some food 😛
You can buy all products of biologique recherche at shoprescuespa,vicki morav & aida bicaj
I’ve been wanting to try this stuff so badly as well, but MAN IT’S HARD TO GET. I haven’t been able to find a place yet, but I’ll keep looking!
It’s IMPOSSIBLE to find! I did a quick search online and there seems to be an online store kolortwist.com that stocks Biologique Recherche in Canada and sells online! It also looks like you guys get P50T there too, same like we do 🙂 Good luck! I’d love to know how you find it if you try it
I live in Canada and order my P50 from Bren’s Skincare: http://brensskincare.com
She’s excellent. Shipping is very fast, too.
I have not been using an exfoliating toner for a long time now. After reading your post on this and the benefits of an exfoliating toner which includes no more clogged pores and whiteheads and also being almost spot-free, I am promptly bought Pixi Glow Tonic from the Cult Beauty website. Hahahha. The power of your reviews are amazing! I thought Pixi was cheaper option to P50W so best to try it first. Also added Alpha Lquid Gold to the purchase since mine has finished last month 🙂
Hahhaa oh dear, I do hope you’ll like Glow Tonic! Yes, I think it’s a decent alternative to Lotion P50 but start off slow, using once a day before progressing further, if your skin isn’t too used to it. I love Liquid Gold! my perfect lazy night treatment 😀
*I promptly bought Pixi Glow Tonic
Hello, may i have the contact of the authorized local distributor in Malaysia. Thank you and Merry Christmas to you Paris B.
Hi Sonia, the email contact of the local distributor is listed under “Where to Buy” Hope it helps and Merry Christmas! 🙂
Exfoliating toner. Hmm, is the toner from SK-II in the same category ? If not mistaken I remember the staff told me it exfoliates the skin, that’s why SK-II doesn’t have any scrub. But it’s kinda drying if used everyday.
Afraid I’m not familiar with the SK2 toner so I can’t tell, sorry Bugs! Exfoliating toners can often be drying if used too often, depending on the strength of their ingredients. Some of these, that are made for regular use have other hydrating ingredients in there, that temper it, so it doesn’t feel so abrasive on the skin.
Hi Paris,
After reading your post, I was curious enough to Google this product. I found out that there are quite a few beauty saloons in Singapore which carries the P50T lotion. It cost S$115 for 150ml (I may get a bottle later :0). You may consider getting a bottle during your next trip to Spore. Or I will be happy to purchase and mail over to you.
Here’s wishing you a Merry Christmas and a Joyful New Year!
Thanks for letting me know Tenny! 😀 I will definitely keep it in mind if I were to visit Singapore although at the current exchange rate, it looks like I might just be better off getting it locally! I’m still holding out for anyone travelling to Europe to help me though! haha… Did you end up getting it? 😀
My skin doesn’t like glycolic acid . I have tried bravura only . Salicylic is fine for me. I want to try this one read so many rave reviews on Instagram . Currently my skin is a mess and I don’t know why . I have been ddisappointed by so many green beauty products .
Oh Bravura is a brand I’ve been wanting to try for a while. Mostly because their bottles are so pretty! LOL But I wasn’t sure what to get. I know of some people who aren’t good with glycolic acid, so it’s not unusual. I’m lucky that it works for me! I’m sorry to hear about your skin condition. Green beauty products are a bit tricky I feel. You can’t get the really effective ingredients “naturally” and sometimes, that’s what our skin needs. I mix things up for me. For the treatment products, I go full chemical, but for moisturisers then I don’t mind trying something green. I hope your skin clears up soon. It’s always a bummer when skin is bad 🙁
Awh, I’ve heard of this product some time ago. But my oily skin doesn’t like even 5% of AHA. My skil peels overnight EVERYTIME using an AHA product. 🙁
I love acids and have been using the Paula’s Choice 2% BHA Liquid for a few years. Gentle. Super effective. Fortunate to also get the glowing and smooth sensation from using an acid product.
But I see Biologique comes in a 50 ml size. Will consider trying it since you so highly recommend it! Perhaps I should check the strength first 😉
Oh yes, I have heard that Paula’s Choice BHA is very good! I haven’t tried it myself, but you know what? If it works for you stick with it! 😀 Actually, I’ve been told by a few people that their skin can’t handle AHA too so it’s not uncommon. That said, it’s wise to try a trial size and see if it works for you. I absolutely love this lotion but I’m always aware that skincare is so individual, it may not work for everyone, so proceed with caution! 😉
I have been waiting for this review ever since i spied the bottle on your Paris haul. I am very excited about that juicy info of their distributor being available in Malaysia.
I had to be very sure that it lived up to expectations, and it does! I’m really happy that we have a local distributor here in Malaysia too. It’s always a bummer when there are all these wonderful products out there and we don’t have a local authorized source, right? If you try it, I hope you’ll like it too! 🙂 I’m planning to get a back up bottle soon, so I don’t ever have to run out 😛
Your news about the distributor in Malaysia has set the tone of my day! I’m currently almost halfway through my 150ml P50 lotion bought in London in early September and dreading the day it’ll be gone. I have emailed them and waiting for the reply.
It sucks when something is so good to your skin is also very expensive and hard to find. Hahaha!
Thanks for this review!
Glad to help Hanim 🙂 I fully feel you – I’m now halfway through my Lotion P50 and dreading the day when I have to repurchase. Yet, it’s so darned good for my skin! I hope the delivery from the local distributor was smooth?
Thank you for your review! Now I feel like I need it in my life, too. ( I am currently using Clarins and First Aid Beauty).
You do Marina! I heard they reformulated the Clarins one (and it isn’t carried here) so I didn’t try it. I did hear that it’s good though!
Hi Paris,
Your reviews did a huge favor to those in Malaysia. I’ve just got in touch with the distributor that you shared and they offer purchases by bank transfer + courier service as well. That’s a great deal of help! P50T which is the only P50 they carry at the moment is RM349 for 150ml, which in my opinion is much cheaper than SG!
Still waiting for their reply on whether they carry other products of BR.
Well, thank you!
I’m happy to be of service MS 🙂 Glad you managed to get your hands on the Lotion P50T 😀 I’m almost finishing my Lotion P50W as we speak. Can’t be without it!
hello there! may i know if you still keep in touch with the distributor in recent time? because i had email them but receive no answer.
Hi I’m sorry I don’t stay in touch with them 🙁 It looks like Mandarin Oriental Spa would be your best bet
Hi Paris,
I started off with the First Aid Beauty pads and I found that going over my spots a couple of times helped to diminish their appearance. After a month of use, I switched to Pixi Glow Tonic for a week or so but I felt that I preferred the FAB or perhaps there wasn’t much time for me to get used to it yet. A week later, my P50 arrived and I was as skeptical as you are. I took a chance despite having sensitive skin as I truly believed the FAB and Pixi have prepped my skin sufficiently.
Boy, was I wrong! I feel that it is soooooo important that only the tiniest amount is used and to start off on a cotton pad. (I refuse to lower the pH with water as I felt that it kinda defeats the purpose then) So my skin tingled to the point of itching when I was too generous a couple of days into the first week of use! That was a terrible night and I have learnt my lesson since then. I’m so glad I did not go for the original phenol P50 ( mine came from the states) even though it was most tempting!
My skin is generally fine so I did not see huge improvements, just smoother skin texture. The vinegar smell was a little overwhelming at first but I feel like I have gotten used to it that it doesn’t bother me anymore! Definitely go for the P50 once you are done with this. I know I am using mine most sparingly despite having 2 more backups.
Hope this helps anyone who is thinking of trying the P50!
Thanks for sharing your experience L 🙂 I did get the Lotion P50 through a friend, and I actually prefer it to P50W. Trying to finish it now so I can get started on P50 🙂
Hi Paris,
Can I know why you prefer the P50W more than the P50? I’m halfway through using the P50W and am soooo tempted to purchase to P50… would love a comparison from you ?
Hi Jolene, I don’t prefer the Lotion P50W to Lotion P50 🙂 I was recommended to start by using P50W, which is what I did. It’s the starter lotion, for those who have never used the product before, with a lighter strength. I now use Lotion P50, which is a little stronger (noticeably so as it will give skin a zing) and am also trying out PIGM400. I can’t say if you should go straight to P50, but if you want to, I don’t see why you shouldn’t. But P50W will set the stage for you, so you can see if it works for you, and how much you like it before upgrading, as it were 🙂
could you please share where can i buy the Biologique Recherche Lotion P50 in malaysia?
Its in the post Vee – the email for the distributor if you live outside of KL, or at Mandarin Oriental Spa if you live in KL
So glad! Just recently movedback to Malaysia from the UK and I was struggling to come to terms that I might have a real difficulty to get P50 but I’m so glad to find your post!!
Hi Farhana, glad to be of help! 🙂
Where can I get this product in kL?
Biologique Recherche is available at Boren Medical Hub. However, I was told that only P50T is available in Malaysia.