Biologique Recherche P50W: a cult toner, but too aggressive for reactive skin

P50 is one of the most famous toners in the world, and P50W is its gentlest version, meant specifically for sensitive skin. I already mentioned it on my list of flops, and here's why.

What the brand says

• A very gentle exfoliating lotion for thin and/or sensitive skin and dehydrated skin.
• Exfoliates, purifies, mattifies, hydrates and maintains the pH balance of the skin's surface while smoothing texture.
• Contains acids (gluconolactone, lactic, malic and citric), niacinamide, glycerin, allantoin, urea and plant extracts.
• Not recommended on irritated skin; avoid sun exposure after application.

My experience

Not for my skin. I'm not saying it's bad, and I know how many people love it, but for reactive skin it's too aggressive.

Although P50W is the gentlest version and is meant for sensitive skin, the combination of acids was too much for me. My rosacea skin doesn't like acids anyway, and there are several here, along with fragrance components such as limonene and linalool.

Who is it for

For sensitive but not reactive skin that tolerates gentle acids well. If you have rosacea or skin that reacts strongly to new products, skip it or talk to a dermatologist first.