Welcome to Hi/Lo Beauty! In this franchise, I’ll be comparing products on the pricier, and on the more affordable, ends of the spectrum in various categories. In each post I’ll compare and contrast the products, and let you know what I think is worth the splurge, and what’s not. And this week, it’s all about acid-based toners.

I’m comparing two options—the cult classic Biologique Recherche Lotion P50 W, and Versed Skincare’s Daily Brightening Solution. I’ll give you some basic info on the products, and a quick review. Then you can decide what sounds worth it!

The Best Budget and High-End Acid Toners: An Honest Review

High-End Toner:

Biologique Recherche Lotion P50 W

$31 for 1.7 oz at Shop Rescue Spa

The version I use of this cult-classic “lotion” (another term for a liquid-textured toner-style product) is the weaker version, hence the “W” at the end of P50.

Read this quick primer on all the details about Lotion P50 and why it’s so popular and loved, then come back for the rest!

But let’s break it down quickly here, too.

Here’s What to Know:

• It’s strong—crazy strong, hence my using the weaker version.

• It penetrates deeply into the skin.

• If you have any sensitivity, my BR-trained facialist at the Four Seasons Orlando Spa told me to put some on a cotton pad and cut it with water—as in, add in a few drops of water onto your BR-soaked cotton pad—to cut down on its intensity.

• It works, and often quickly, because of the aforementioned strength.

My Review:

This is what I call an “investment product.” It’s expensive, but it does work. That being said, I’d start with the small size to see if this is a fit for your skin.

It works best for me when I cut it with my Tower28 SOS Spray, and when I use it every other night. Make sure to pat it into your skin—don’t rub it like you would with a traditional toner! That will reduce the chance of irritation.

Because it’s so strong, I use this intermittently—specifically, every other night, and only on the spots on my face that can get congested, which are my cheeks, chin and nose.

Buy this if you want a power product; don’t buy this if your skin is overly sensitive or if you’re not prone to congestion or acne.

The Affordable Toner:

Versed Skincare Weekend Glow Daily Brightening Solution

$17.99

Versed Skincare at Target has such an amazing range of skincare that’s truly effective while also managing to be affordable. When I bought this I was looking for an acid-based toner that would remove any last traces of cleanser and makeup, and also clean out my pores for serum and moisturizer application. At $17.99, it was worth a gamble to see if it worked.

What to Know:

• Has a blend of four acids—lactic, glycolic, azelaic and kojic

• Dispenses through a push pump at the top

• “Non toxic” and cruelty-free

• Made for daily use

• No stinging or burning upon application

My Review:

This one is a winner! Can’t recommend it enough.

While I didn’t experience the turbo-clearing effect I got with the BR P50, I found that it was an amazing product overall, and gentle enough on my skin to use daily without any irritation.

The thing about a good acid-based toner is that you want something that works, but you also want something that doesn’t burn or irritate your skin, which means you’ll likely stop using it. This toner strikes the perfect balance; it works, and it’s gentle enough to use daily.