Biologique Recherche’s Lotion P50 line is a true skincare legend: a collection of carefully balanced exfoliating toners that refine, purify, and bring skin back to its ideal pH. Often described as “a facial in a bottle,” P50 works to exfoliate, balance, and strengthen the skin barrier for that unmistakable Rescue Spa glow.
However, with several different versions, including the P50, P50W, P50V, P50 PIGM 400, and P50T, finding your perfect match can be tricky. Let’s break it down together.
Quick Match
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Oily / Congested → P50
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Sensitive / Reactive → P50W or P50T
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Dull / Devitalized → P50V
- Pigmentation / Uneven Tone → P50 PIGM 400
1. Lotion P50
Best for: Oily, blemish-prone, or keratinized skin
If your skin tends to get congested or oily, and you crave that deep “reset” feeling, Lotion P50 might be your holy grail. It’s the strongest and most active version, designed to deeply purify, regulate sebum, and leave your complexion clearer and more refined.
What you’ll notice
Refined pores, fewer breakouts, smoother, more even texture.
Key Actives:
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Exfoliating acids: AHA + BHA + PHA + cider vinegar
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Sebum-regulating: Sorrel extract, thyme essential oil
- Purifying: Magnesium chloride, horseradish extract, vitamin B3
How to Start
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Week 1: Apply 3–4 evenings per week, using cotton rounds to soften the exfoliating effect.
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After Week 1: If your skin feels comfortable, increase to nightly use.
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Application tip: Press the cotton onto your skin — don’t rub or swipe.
- Daytime care: Always apply SPF every morning, as exfoliation can increase sun sensitivity.
Pairs well with
Purifying cleanser; balancing serum; lightweight gel-cream.
2. Lotion P50W – The Gentle Healer
Best for: Thin, sensitive, or reactive skin
Meet the soft-spoken sibling of the P50 family. P50W is perfect if your skin blushes easily, feels delicate, or if you’re just starting your P50 journey. It soothes as it exfoliates, helping your skin build tolerance and strength over time.
What you’ll notice
Less redness over time, smoother texture, comfort + clarity.
Key Actives:
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Exfoliating acids: AHA + BHA + PHA + cider vinegar + sulfur + phytic acid
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Moisturizing: NMF, arnica
- Purifying: Vitamin B3, capsicum extract, soapbark extract
How to Start
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Week 1: Apply 3–4 evenings per week, using damp cotton to soften the exfoliating effect.
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After Week 1: If your skin feels comfortable, increase to nightly use.
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Application tip: Press the cotton onto your skin, don’t rub or swipe.
- Daytime care: Always apply SPF every morning, as exfoliation can increase sun sensitivity.
Ideal as your “first P50” or for anyone needing a gentle balance.
Pairs well with
Milky cleanser; hydrating mist; barrier serum; gentle cream.
3. Lotion P50T – The Soothing Balancer
Best for: Thin and/or sensitive skin (international formula)
If your skin needs balance but can’t tolerate strong acids, P50T is your gentle yet effective companion. Designed with soothing and moisturizing ingredients, it helps refine texture without irritation. Think of it as P50’s calm, nurturing cousin. This is the best choice for someone who finds P50 W too strong.
Key Benefits:
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Soft exfoliation with soothing hydration
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Balances and purifies
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Supports sensitive complexions
Key Ingredients:
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Exfoliating acids: AHA + BHA + PHA + cider vinegar
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Moisturizing: NMF, arnica
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Purifying: Burdock extract, Panama wood, red pepper extract
How to Start
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Week 1: Apply 3–4 evenings per week, using damp cotton to soften the exfoliating effect.
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After Week 1: If your skin feels comfortable, increase to nightly use.
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Application tip: Press the cotton onto your skin, don’t rub or swipe.
- Daytime care: Always apply SPF every morning, as exfoliation can increase sun sensitivity.
Pairs well with
Milky cleanser; hydrating mist; barrier serum; gentle cream.
4. Lotion P50V – The Revitalizer
Best for: Mature, devitalized, or tired skin
If your skin feels dull, lacking tone, or just needs a pick-me-up, P50V brings it back to life. This antioxidant-rich formula helps energize and smooth the complexion while maintaining a healthy acid balance. It’s like a morning espresso but for your skin.
What you’ll notice
Improved tone, radiance, and refined lines/texture.
Key Ingredients:
Exfoliating acids: AHA + BHA + PHA + cider vinegar + phytic acid
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Antioxidizing: Walnut extract, yeast extract, alfalfa extract
- Purifying: Capsicum extract, vitamin B3
How to Start
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Week 1: If you’re new to acids, begin by applying 3–4 evenings per week using gentle pressing motions with a cotton round.
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After Week 1: Once your skin feels comfortable, increase to nightly use.
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Application tip: Press, don’t rub this ensures even absorption without irritation.
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Daytime care: Always follow with SPF every morning, as exfoliation can make skin more sensitive to the sun.
Pairs well with
Antioxidant vitamin C in the AM; firming peptides at night.
5. Lotion P50 PIGM 400 – The Brightener
Best for: Pigmented, Melasma-prone, post-blemish marks, sun spots, or overall uneven tone.
Dreaming of luminous, even-toned skin? P50 PIGM 400 targets dullness and dark spots while maintaining P50’s signature purifying and exfoliating action. It’s your daily glow booster, refining texture while promoting brightness and clarity.
What you’ll notice
Gradual brightening, more even tone, smooth luminosity.
Key Ingredients:
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Exfoliating acids: AHA + BHA + PHA + cider vinegar + phytic acid + finger lime extract
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Brightening complex: Dulse extract complex, peach tree leaf, apple, raspberry
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Purifying: Magnesium sulfate, meadowsweet extract
Your go-to if you’re tackling pigmentation or want a radiant glow.
How to Start
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Week 1: Apply every other night or nightly, depending on your skin’s tolerance. Start slowly to let your skin adjust to exfoliation.
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After Week 1: If your skin feels comfortable and balanced, you can gradually build to twice daily use, morning and evening.
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Application tip: Use gentle pressing motions with a cotton round; avoid rubbing or swiping.
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Daytime care: A high-SPF sunscreen every morning is essential, as exfoliation increases sun sensitivity.
Pairs well with:
Brightening serums that target pigmentation like niacinamide, tranexamic acid, or arbutin, to enhance glow and evenness.
FAQs About Lotion P50
Q: Which formula should I start with if I’m new?
A: Start with P50W or P50T for the gentlest introduction.
Q: Why does my skin tingle after using P50?
A: A mild tingling sensation is normal at first it means the formula is balancing your skin’s pH.
Q: Can I use P50 with retinol or acids?
A: Avoid layering active exfoliants. Alternate on different days to prevent irritation.
Q: How soon will I see results?
A: Expect visible refinement in 2–4 weeks with consistent use.
Q: Can I use P50 year-round?
A: Yes. Just don’t forget SPF when using it in the morning.
Every Lotion P50 formula has its own personality, from the gentle P50W to the brightening P50 PIGM 400. Think of them as different pathways to your best skin: balanced, refined, and radiant.
Have more questions?
Book a complimentary consultation with our skin experts for personalized advice.
