If you’ve been following my stories on Instagram  you know that I am in full on Vegas recovery mode thanks to a bachelorette party I attended last weekend. Wow. I can NOT hang how I used to. Apparently 29 is the new 90? I went into a very unhealthy but oh-so-necessary hibernation mode that included frozen Trader Joe’s Mac and Cheese {the best}, Cinnabon and no hairbrush for several days. I feel like I am FINALLY starting to crawl out of the hole and getting back into my routines. My skincare routine is LIFE for me. I mean, it actually kind of is lol, see what I mean here.

I’ve been working really hard to improve my skin tone / texture etc for the last 2 years or so. Yes, this shit is commitment. It’s not a one and done deal. BUT I have tried literally EVERYTHING and cannot wait to share all my research with you guys lol. *Mad Skincare Scientist at Heart*

This skincare story begins with a magical stroll down the streets of Paris… and if someone tries to tell you a skincare story that doesn’t start this way I say RUN. Those French babes know their shit.

Anyway, I was ON THE HUNT for skin products I could only get in Paris because #Priorities. That’s where I first heard about THE MAGIC POTION.

{FYI this post is NOT sponsored. Even if it was, I would NEVER share things with you guys I don’t believe in 100%. But, it is not sponsored. Just want to share the magic!}

So I’m in Paris mode and an angel asks me if I’ve heard of Biologique Recherché. They are a French skincare lab that put hardcore scientific research into their products. Plus, they have a stunning spa/treatment center on the Champs Elysees {because, of course they do}.

I waltzed RIGHT on over and it turns out they REALLY take skincare seriously. Like, so seriously you can’t buy their products on site until someone analyzes your skin. So I waited my turn to have my skin examined and walked away with the beginning of the best addiction ever.

It comes down to this: the key to great skin is EXFOLIATION.

We get dead skin, oils etc built up on our face and it clogs your pores and leaves your skin dull. Regular exfoliation is the key to keeping skin bright and clear, minimizing the appearance of pores and fine lines etc.

The problem is, a lot of exfoliants are too harsh on your skin, damaging it and it’s PH levels. Those face scrubs with granules of sand/ rubber whatever? BAD. SO bad. Don’t do it.

Let me introduce you to your new, life-changing bestie.

My Skincare Holy Grail, Must-Have Product:

Biologique Recherche Lotion P50

This stuff is is SKIN MAGIC. Lotion is a bit of a misnomer because the product is actually a toner. Super liquid and used as an exfoliator you apply and leave to work its magic between your other skincare steps.

Since using this my skin has become WAY SMOOTHER, much MORE EVEN and my PORE SIZE has DECREASED dramatically. Don’t believe me? Check out the 900+ 5 star reviews on the only site that sells it in the US.

Now, there are many different types so let me break them down quickly for you.

Different Types of Lotion P50

If you want to go big:

Lotion P50 or Lotion P50 1970

These babies are the Originals. They will burn, but they will change your life. They are hard f*&!ng core. The difference between the straight P50 and the P50 1970 is that 1970 {the OG OG version} contains Phenol. Phenol is an ingredient that has been banned in Europe, and I trust European guidelines more than the US, so I choose to stick to the phenol-free version. However, the 1970 has a crazy following and you do you, girl. I think P50 without the Phenol still gives fantastic results so I choose to opt out just to be safe.

If You Have Sensitive Skin or are a First Time User:

Lotion P50W

This was what was recommended to me in Paris since I hadn’t used Lotion P50 before. It is the most mild formulation and still gives strong exfoliation while being really gentle on your skin.

If You have Dry Skin:

Lotion P50V

Again, a more mild formulation meant to moisturize while exfoliating, so ideal for those who need the extra oomph of moisture.

If You’re Focused on Hyperpigmentation:

Lotion P50 PIGM 400

This is the version I’m currently using as sun damage/ hyper-pigmentation is one of my main skin concerns. It is more mild than the straight Lotion P50 and that led me to believe for the first couple weeks that I may not see a difference. However, after 4 weeks of use morning and night I have seen a DEFINITE improvement in my skin tone. It’s a silent color killer. I still like the bit more of burn I get from the Lotion P50, so I think I may switch up soon to alternating P50 PIGM 400 morning and regular P50 at night, or every other day.

NOTE: Be sure you’re applying it right. This is not a toner you swipe on. It should be BLOTTED on. I put a few drops onto a cotton round and pat it all over my face and neck starting with my dark spots first so they get the heaviest concentration of formula.

If you have any questions on which version you should use, I highly recommend emailing the experts at Shop Rescue Spa. Their customer service is amazing and when I wrote them I literally got like a 6 paragraph novel back on their recommendations. They will help you figure out your life.

Now, this stuff isn’t cheap. You know I’m always on the hunt for a good bargain. Here are some other great exfoliation products if you want to get your glow on for a bit less.

My Favorite Budget Friendly Exfoliants

Paula’s Choice Skin Perfecting BHA Liquid

I LOVE Paula’s Choice because they are HARDCORE about their ingredients and never have fragrance or do animal testing. It takes the guesswork out of buying skincare because I know I can trust their products. With over 2,100 5 star reviews and the largest size bottle still under $30 you can’t go wrong. I use this to really get my skin clear and pores open. I swipe on like a toner, let it soak in and follow with my P50 lotion.

Pixi Glow Tonic Toner

This is a fav Target find! I passed over this unassuming little pink and green bottle a few times before giving it a go after hearing RAVE reviews from many people. It does not disappoint. Helps keep skin clear, bright and pores small for only $15!

Pixi Overnight Glow Serum

Another Pixi Target fav! I loved the glow tonic so much I grabbed this one day and was really impressed for the price. I slather this on about 2x a week after my p50 Lotion. You definitely wake up glowing after globbing it on at night. I also love using this in conjunction with the Glow Tonic

Frankincense Oil

I bought Frankincense oil for the first time at Whole Foods after the girl working there was telling me all its incredible skin benefits INCLUDING helping protect skin cells against cancer. It is also known to brighten and fade dark spots and scars. It has a very strong smell but I personally love it. I rub just a dab onto my skin cancer scar and dark spots 1-2 times a week.

Eminence Organics Bright Skin Licorice Root Serum *

So this one is up there in price and if you have to pick between this and the Lotion P50 definitely go with the P50. However, I do really like this serum and it’s brightening effects. I’m always down for a good natural skincare solution and while the P50 is killer it is definitely not natural lol. So, if you want positive effects naturally this and the Frankincense oil are what I would recommend.

I hope this post was helpful. I can’t wait to share more of my skincare tips with you guys. Let me know if you use any of these products or have any other recommendations for skincare products you swear by! Always love hearing your tips!

Xx,

C