![Biologique Recherche Creme Masque Vernix by the sink.](https://i0.wp.com/omgbart.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/biologique-recherche-p50-acid-toner-review.jpg?resize=1440%2C960&ssl=1)
Familiarity with Biologique Recherche is the unspoken, invisible line that seems to divide the pundits from the amateurs in the skincare community. Since my first experience with the brand almost a decade ago, a bottle of lotion P50 1970 has been an on-again-off-again constant in my acid toner repertoire. This past summer, I treated myself to a jar of the Creme Masque Vernix and it may officially be my all-time favorite product from the brand. That means both Masque Vivant and Lait VIP O2 are each a notch lower on my BR totem pole. More below.
![Opening a new jar of Biologique Recherche Masque Vernix.](https://i0.wp.com/omgbart.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/biologique-recherche-review-mask-vernix.jpg?resize=1440%2C960&ssl=1)
What is Creme Masque Vernix?
According to the label, Creme Masque Vernix is a ‘revitalizing, repairing and protective facial cream mask.’ It can also be used as a rinse-off or leave-on treatment. Its goal is very Benjamin Button: to recondition the epidermis and give it that ‘born again’ appearance one only associates with the moment our youth peaks. Biologique Recherche wants you to feel like a newborn, which is only a little bit eerie.
![Creme Masque Vernix review.](https://i0.wp.com/omgbart.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/biologique-recherche-creme-masque-vernix.jpg?resize=1440%2C960&ssl=1)
At just over $200, I knew there was no way I was applying a thick layer and rinsing it off after only 15 minutes. Instead, I use it as a night cream 2-3 times a week. Spoiler alert: I’m not aging backwards but the stuff is absolutely insane. It’s been a couple of months and every time I put it on, my face feels snatched. Literally. I cannot think of any other product that works like this. And I’ve tried plenty.
![Biologique Recherche skincare routine for mature skin.](https://i0.wp.com/omgbart.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/biologique-recherche-mask-review.jpg?resize=1440%2C960&ssl=1)
What’s Vernix though?
Vernix is the white slimy film that covers a baby at birth. It’s a highly protective, healing, and cell growth-stimulating cocoon. Biologique Recherche formulated a product that mimics that very environment. Following water, the second ingredient is Amniotic Fluid. It’s the liquid that surrounds the baby in the womb. I’m going to go out on a limb here but I believe BR uses a synthetic equivalent because otherwise… How would that work, exactly? Same goes for a few other INCI hits such as Hydrolyzed Placental Protein and Embryo Extract.
![Biologique Recherche skincare routine for combination skin.](https://i0.wp.com/omgbart.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/biologique-recherche-reviews.jpg?resize=1440%2C954&ssl=1)
Additionally, the formula includes Luffa Cylindrica Seed Oil, which I have not otherwise encountered. Also known as Sponge Gourd, this potent anti-inflammatory botanical is rich in Arginine, which enhances hydration and repairs cellular damage. Masque Vernix contains Peptides and Ceramides as well, to strengthen and protect the skin moisture barrier.
![Biologique Recherche Masque Vernix texture, color, and scent.](https://i0.wp.com/omgbart.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/biologique-recherche-masque-vernix.jpg?resize=1440%2C960&ssl=1)
Texture and scent of Creme Masque Vernix
Here is where things get interesting. The Creme Masque Vernix has a thick, creamy texture that absorbs so quickly, it’s almost uncanny. What’s truly unique is the tightening finish that feels like a corset on your face. Immediately, my skin embraces extra hydration and moisture but the feeling of firmness lasts all night. I am not sensitive to fragrance in skincare but this one has a rather peculiar scent. Especially the first time you try it. It’s neither funky nor fishy but for a minute, it’s somewhere in between. Luckily, the scent does not linger.
![Angela Caglia, Environ, Biologique Recherche skincare routine.](https://i0.wp.com/omgbart.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/biologique-recherche-vernix.jpg?resize=1440%2C960&ssl=1)
How I use it, results, etc
As mentioned earlier, I reach for my jar of Masque Vernix every other night as the last step in my skincare routine. Ideally, I cleanse, use a hydrating essence, apply my treatment serum of choice (usually Retinol), eye cream, and a thin layer of this Biologique Recherche miracle. On non-Retinol nights, I mix a few drops of my favorite facial oil with a dropper full of water-based hydrating serum, wait for it to absorb, and follow with a dab of Creme Masque Vernix. I don’t think I needed this product ten years ago. At 43, however, I most definitely notice my skin’s increased hydration and moisture levels as well as that bouncy yet comfortable tightness I took for granted not too long ago. This is one of only a few products I absolutely love but can’t find words to explain the magic behind it. It’s just that different.
$209 (50ml) at joannaczech.com
![Creme Masque Vernix ingredients.](https://i0.wp.com/omgbart.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/biologique-recherche-mask-vernix-review.jpg?resize=1440%2C940&ssl=1)