Lotion P50
Exfoliating & Purifying Lotion
Suitable for skin: Normal – Oily – Combination – Sensitive
$45.00 - $155.00
Lotion P50: The Balancing and Exfoliating Toner for Normal to Combination Skin
Biologique Recherche Lotion P50 is the exfoliating toner that Aida Bicaj has relied on — and introduced to her clients — for nearly three decades. Formulated to purify, rebalance, and strengthen the skin, it dissolves dead cell buildup, restores pH equilibrium, and prepares the complexion to absorb what follows. This is the modern formulation developed after the original phenol-based Lotion P50 1970 was discontinued, delivering the same results with a safer, more compatible profile.
Not sure which P50 is right for your skin? See the guide in the first tab below.
Aida says:
This should be used by everyone who doesn’t have any skin sensitivity, and has normal to oily skin.
Complete list of ingredients:
WATER (AQUA), GLUCONOLACTONE, LACTIC ACID, GLYCERIN, PROPYLENE GLYCOL, NIACINAMIDE, CITRIC ACID, ETHOXYDIGLYCOL, MAGNESIUM CHLORIDE, MALIC ACID, COCHLEARIA ARMORACIA (HORSERADISH) ROOT EXTRACT, ARCTIUM LAPPA ROOT EXTRACT, RUMEX ACETOSA LEAF EXTRACT, MYRTUS COMMUNIS EXTRACT, ALLIUM CEPA (ONION) BULB EXTRACT, COMMIPHORA MYRRHA RESIN EXTRACT, PHYTIC ACID, SALICYLIC ACID, SULFUR, THYMUS VULGARIS (THYME) FLOWER/LEAF OIL, VINEGAR (ACETUM), SORBITOL, SODIUM BENZOATE, PHENOXYETHANOL, POTASSIUM SORBATE, SODIUM BISULFITE.
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Lotion P50 — Normal to Combination Skin
The original formula. Best for skin that is oily, congested, or prone to keratinization. Regulates sebum, refines texture, and maintains clarity. Also effective for treating ingrown hairs.
Key actives: Lactic Acid, Salicylic Acid, Niacinamide, Sulfur, Magnesium Chloride
Lotion P50V — Dry or Devitalized Skin
A more conditioning version of the original. Best for skin that lacks tone or vitality but is not overly sensitive. Fortifies and stimulates epidermal functions while gently exfoliating.
Key actives: Walnut extract, Yeast extract, Plankton, Brewer's yeast
Lotion P50W — Sensitive Skin
The gentlest formulation. Best for thin, reactive, or easily irritated skin. Balances exfoliating acids with soothing ingredients to purify without provoking a response.
Key actives: Arnica, Lactic Acid, Salicylic Acid, Glycerin, Arctium Lappa root
Lotion P50 PIGM 400 — Hyperpigmentation & Uneven Tone
Formulated specifically for dull skin with dark spots or uneven pigmentation. Inhibits melanin synthesis, brightens the complexion, and prepares skin for the full PIGM 400 protocol.
Key actives: Wasabi extract, Flavonoids, Vitamin B3
Lotion P50 Corps — Body
The body-specific formulation. Purifies, rebalances pH, and accelerates cellular renewal on skin below the neck. A natural extension of the P50 facial routine.
Still unsure? Our estheticians are available for consultations at both our Upper East Side and Tribeca locations.
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Biologique Recherche Lotion P50 exfoliates, rebalances, and conditions the skin's surface with daily use. Over time it refines texture, clarifies tone, and builds epidermal resilience.
- Cellular Renewal: Dissolves dead skin cells and accelerates natural turnover for a smoother surface.
- pH Equilibrium: Restores the skin's acid mantle and reinforces its natural defenses.
- Pore Refinement: Tightens and clarifies for a more even complexion.
- Enhanced Absorption: Prepares skin to receive serums and treatment creams at full efficacy.
- Sustained Clarity: With consistent use, tone evens, congestion clears, and overall skin quality improves.
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- Step 1: Moisten a cotton pad with Lotion P50.
- Step 2: Press gently into the face, neck, and décolleté. Do not rub.
- Step 3: Follow with your targeted serums and treatment creams.
Use morning and/or evening. If new to exfoliating acids, begin every other day and increase to daily use as your skin adjusts.
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- Lactic Acid: Resurfaces and hydrates while supporting the moisture barrier.
- Salicylic Acid: Penetrates pores to dissolve congestion and refine texture.
- Niacinamide: Brightens uneven tone and reinforces barrier integrity.
- Sulfur: Purifies and regulates excess sebum.
- Magnesium Chloride: Detoxifies and re-energizes skin that has lost vitality.
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What is the difference between Lotion P50 and Lotion P50W?
Lotion P50 is the original formula, designed for normal to combination or oily skin. Lotion P50W is the gentlest version in the family, formulated specifically for sensitive or reactive skin. It balances the same exfoliating acids with soothing ingredients like Arnica and Glycerin to minimize the risk of irritation.
What is the difference between Lotion P50 and Lotion P50 1970?
Lotion P50 1970 was the original phenol-based formula. It has since been discontinued. The current Lotion P50 is the modern reformulation — developed to deliver comparable exfoliating and rebalancing results without phenol, making it safe for regular daily use.
Can I use Lotion P50 every day?
Yes, Lotion P50 is designed for daily use. If you are new to exfoliating acids, begin every other day and increase frequency gradually as your skin adjusts. Most clients build to twice-daily use — morning and evening — over time.
Where does Lotion P50 fit in my skincare routine?
Lotion P50 is applied after cleansing, before serums and creams. Press it gently into the face, neck, and décolleté using a cotton pad — do not rub. It prepares the skin to absorb everything that follows more effectively.
Is Lotion P50 suitable for acne-prone skin?
Yes. The combination of Salicylic Acid, Sulfur, and Niacinamide makes Lotion P50 well-suited to skin prone to congestion and breakouts. It regulates sebum, unclogs pores, and reduces the buildup that leads to blemishes with consistent use.
Why does Lotion P50 have a strong smell?
The scent comes from active ingredients including cider vinegar, sulfur, and botanical extracts — all functional components of the formula. The smell dissipates quickly after application and is not an indication of irritation.