Guys, breaking news, P50 launched a new P50: P50 PIGM 400.

You have certainly heard of P50. The French toner-tonic-lotion by Biologique Recherche that balances your skin’s pH, exfoliates, hydrates and clears up acne, all in one. Mary Kate and Ashley are massive fans (just saying) and it’s the results that have earned this product a HUGE cult following.

Admittedly, the smell is something you have to get used to, It smells of apple cider vinegar and onions at best. But – for skin that is crystal clear, soft and plump, you will take your chances.

If you live in the US, you probably know that it’s practically impossible to get your hands on it. It’s a French thing. You can really only find it online at Philadelphia’s Rescue Spa and at Aida Bicaj in New York.

I was introduced to P50 years ago. A friend of mine swore by it and, around the same time, I popped in for a facial with Aida Bicaj. She has been using Biologique Recherche for years and told me about P50’s magical powers and wouldn’t let me leave her office without my own bottle. Since then, I have loved it. I learned for myself that P50 actually works. It’s the hallmark of French beauty and is bought by me, beauty editors and crazy-good-skin-loving woman all over the world. Now here’s where things get slightly confusing.

There are lots of different kinds of P50, so for someone who is new to P50, it’s tough to know which is best for your skin. Lucky for you, I popped into the Biologique Recherche Spa last week while in Paris and asked them to break P50 down for me. PS – The next time you are in Paris, you should pay a trip to this spa, and you will see what I am talking about. I hope this helps:

Note: Whenever there’s “1970” in the title, it means the product includes the original formula made with phenol, (an ingredient used in mouthwash). The new formulas (without the “1970”) were created specifically for the European markets. But, in the US you can still purchase both. P50 die-hards still crave the original formula, but I switched over to the phenol-free formula.

If your concern is acne (or you just want to be hardcore, as this is the most aggressive one): P50 & P50 1970

This is the original, guys. It’s got AHA’s and BHA’s, and a special mix of ingredients (a list that even includes onion!) to promote acne free skin that glows.

If you have red or sensitive skin: P50V & P50V 1970

Is your skin ever so dry or just a tad sensitive? This is for you. They’re not quite as harsh as the original formula, so it’s more conditioning. The best part? They’re packed with all those good-for-you ingredients like Onion Extract, Lactic Acid, Salicylic Acid, Burdock Extract and Plankton.

If your concern is anti-aging: P50W & P50W 1970

This is the most delicate P50, but its Burdock Extract and Panama Wood Extract keep the skin glowing. The formula is best for mature skin types, as the formula is packed with anti-inflamitory active ingredients.

If your concern is sunspots or hyperpigmentation: P50 PIGM 400

I just bought this one. Lotion P50 PIGM 400, the newest P50, is an exfoliating and brightening lotion that is ideal for dull complexions with hyperpigmentation and dark spots. It’s made with wasabi extract…enough said.

Image, Mary-Kate & Ashley Olsen by Craig McDean for Vogue Special Edition.