Page Report #2
My secret mascara, forgotten brands at my favorite pharmacy, the state of Biologique
Okay, back to some classic AP product recs. But first a bit of Biologique discourse from friends and readers -
Stylist Max Ortega brought to my attention the extremely bizarre Biologique Recherche campaign for their new Creme M.E.C., which appears to have required a Movement Director for reasons unknown. Or as he described it in the chat - “first ever marketing budget, conned-by-a-choreographer”. I’ve been using Biologique since 2009 and I do love them, but I see what they’ve been doing over the past few years and it’s clear how they’re trying to grow this company. For one, you can now buy products directly on their website. There’s no more secret society of needing to be analyzed and prescribed a regimen by their small group of authorized retailers. Some of the packaging has changed. Everyone knows they took away the original P50 (didn’t matter to me). They opened spas in the US for the first time; I went to the LA one and wasn’t charmed in any way. They’re grappling with the perpetual dilemma of staying underground vs. selling out etc. Except the visual presentation of the brand is now ordinary and, at times, terrible. I’m sure they’re doing just fine. But I’m in a personal war with beauty brands who present product this way. We’ve got to stop with the random model showcasing a huge glob of serum on her face. When’s the last time you held a jar of cream wedged between your chin and your shoulder, flashing a big smile? This isn’t natural, this isn’t modern. Enough!
And what’s the deal with Biologique vs. MBR? reader JL asked. This is a brand that I’ve been speaking to a trusted source about, specifically their Liquid Surgery Serum, which is an insane name and an insane price point. The source reports that MBR appears to simply be a contract manufacturer. “Leading dermatologists and aesthetics physicians in Germany”? Name ‘em. The language used to describe the products is very medical and they use borderline drug claims. Not my business. I don’t know anyone that’s tried the serum. I’ve tried the Modukine Cream for redness; it feels and smells like Embryolisse and I didn’t repurchase. The packaging will make you wonder why we’re even talking about this.
Crème MSR-H is the only Biologique cream I like. The texture is perfect, it’s very calming and smells faintly like marshmallow.
Below: my secret mascara, my favorite pharmacies in NY and LA