Sébium Lotion
Sébium Lotion
Product Description
Product overview
A lightweight, triple-action toning lotion that deeply rebalances combination to oily skin. Formulated with patented Fluidactiv technology, zinc gluconate, and salicylic acid to regulate sebum, refine pores, and provide 8 hours of hydration while maintaining optimal skin pH.
Fluidactiv™ Patented Complex
Exclusive technology that biologically regulates sebum quality to prevent clogged pores and reduce blemish formation.
Texture & feel
SENSORYFluidactiv™ Patented Complex
Exclusive technology that biologically regulates sebum quality to prevent clogged pores and reduce blemish formation.
Triple-Action Formula
Hydrates for up to 8 hours, regulates sebum production, and restores optimal skin pH balance.
BHA + Zinc Technology
Salicylic acid refines skin texture while zinc gluconate and vitamin B6 control excess oil production.
Sensitive Skin Friendly
Hypoallergenic, non-comedogenic formula tested under dermatological control for even sensitive oily skin.
Safety & compatibility
SAFEContains salicylic acid. While low concentrations (under 2%) are generally considered safe by ACOG, consult your healthcare provider before use during pregnancy. Safe for breastfeeding when not applied to chest area.
Not fungal acne safe. Contains Polysorbate 20, which may feed malassezia yeast. Those with pityrosporum folliculitis should avoid this product.
Clinically tested and certified non-comedogenic. Will not clog pores or cause breakouts. Comedogenic rating: 1/5.
Hypoallergenic formula tested under dermatological control. Free from parabens, sulfates, and harsh alcohols.
Can be used with niacinamide and hyaluronic acid. Use caution when combining with other BHAs, AHAs, or retinoids to prevent over-exfoliation.
Contains parfum (light, fresh scent). Those with fragrance sensitivities should patch test first.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSSalicylic Acid <2%Proven
A beta-hydroxy acid (BHA) that penetrates oil-filled pores to exfoliate from within, reduce inflammation, and prevent future breakouts.
- Mechanism: Oil-soluble, penetrates pores to dissolve sebum plugs and dead skin cells
- Benefits: Anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, and keratolytic properties
- Research: FDA-approved OTC acne treatment ingredient at concentrations up to 2%
Zinc Gluconate + Pyridoxine HCl (Vitamin B6)Proven
A synergistic combination that works to regulate sebum production at the source, helping to control shine and reduce oiliness throughout the day.
- Clinical Study: Oral zinc gluconate showed 31.2% success rate against inflammatory acne
- Mechanism: Zinc inhibits 5-alpha reductase enzyme, reducing sebum production
- Vitamin B6: Enhances zinc absorption and supports skin's natural oil regulation
Fomes Officinalis (Agaric Mushroom) ExtractPatented
Part of Bioderma's exclusive Fluidactiv™ complex. This mushroom extract helps regulate sebum quality and prevents the thickening of oil that leads to clogged pores.
- Function: Biologically targets sebum composition to keep it fluid
- Result: Prevents oxidation of sebum that causes blackheads and comedones
- Clinical Data: -27% sebum production in 7 days; -40% in 28 days
Glycerin ~3-5%Proven
A powerful humectant naturally present in skin that draws moisture from the environment into the skin's outer layer, providing long-lasting hydration without greasiness.
- Hydration: Provides up to 8 hours of continuous moisture
- Skin Barrier: Helps maintain skin's lipid barrier integrity
- Comedogenic Rating: 0 - completely non-pore-clogging
Capryloyl GlycinePromising
An amino acid derivative that helps regulate the skin's pH levels to create an environment less favorable for acne-causing bacteria.
- pH Regulation: Maintains optimal skin pH of ~5.5
- Antimicrobial: Creates an inhospitable environment for P. acnes bacteria
- Sebum Control: Helps normalize sebum secretion
22 ingredients
Aqua/Water/Eau, PEG-11 Methyl Ether Dimethicone, Butylene Glycol, Glycerin, Fomes Officinalis (Mushroom) Extract, Capryloyl Glycine, Polysorbate 20, Sodium Citrate, Zinc Gluconate, Salicylic Acid, Sodium Hydroxide, Mannitol, Sodium Metabisulfite, Xylitol, Rhamnose, Pyridoxine HCl, Propyl Gallate, PEG-40 Hydrogenated Castor Oil, Fructooligosaccharides, Phenoxyethanol, Parfum (Fragrance)
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEUse morning and/or evening after cleansing. Pairs perfectly with Bioderma Sébium Foaming Gel or Sébium H2O Micellar Water.
How to use
HOW TO USECleanse Your Face
Start with clean, dry skin. Use Sébium Foaming Gel or Sébium H2O Micellar Water for best results.
Apply the Lotion
Pour a small amount onto a cotton pad or directly onto fingertips. Apply evenly across the entire face, avoiding the eye area.
Massage Gently
Using gentle upward motions, massage the lotion into skin until fully absorbed. No need to rinse.
Continue Your Routine
Follow with your usual serums, moisturizer, and sunscreen (AM). Can be used twice daily for best results.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You have oily or combination skin
- You struggle with enlarged pores
- You want to control shine throughout the day
- You're prone to blackheads and blemishes
- You need a hydrating toner that won't add greasiness
- You have sensitive oily skin
- You're 12 years or older dealing with teen acne
Consider alternatives if:
- You have fungal acne (malassezia folliculitis)
- You have very dry or dehydrated skin
- You're pregnant (consult doctor first)
- You're extremely sensitive to fragrance
- You're already using multiple BHA/AHA products
- You prefer completely fragrance-free products
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESPerfect match! Controls sebum, mattifies shine, and refines pores without stripping moisture. Clinical studies show -40% sebum reduction in 28 days.
Balances T-zone oiliness while providing adequate hydration to drier areas. Lightweight formula won't overwhelm combination skin.
Salicylic acid and zinc help prevent breakouts. Note: Not suitable for fungal acne due to Polysorbate 20 content.
Hypoallergenic and dermatologist-tested. Contains fragrance, so patch test recommended for very reactive skin.
Provides 8-hour hydration but may not be enough for very dry skin. Best paired with a richer moisturizer.
Results timeline
WEEK 4+Immediate Comfort & Hydration
Skin feels refreshed, balanced, and hydrated. Noticeable reduction in surface oiliness. Pores appear slightly refined.
85% noticed immediate freshnessVisible Sebum Reduction
Clinical studies show -27% sebum production by week 2. Skin appears less shiny, makeup stays better throughout the day.
77% noticed skin texture improvementLong-Term Rebalancing
Maximum benefits achieved: -40% sebum reduction, visibly tighter pores, fewer blemishes, and balanced pH levels.
90% would repurchaseRatings by platform
1K+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Effectively controls oil without over-drying
- Light, refreshing cucumber-melon scent
- Fast-absorbing, watery texture
- Visible pore refinement within weeks
- Suitable for sensitive oily skin
- Dermatologist recommended formula
- 8-hour hydration despite mattifying effect
- Works well under makeup
Criticized
- Contains fragrance (not ideal for ultra-sensitive skin)
- Not fungal acne safe (contains Polysorbate 20)
- May not be hydrating enough for dry skin
- Results take 2-4 weeks to fully appear
- Price per ml higher than some drugstore alternatives
- Thin texture may feel underwhelming to some
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPESHigher concentration salicylic acid (2%) in a simpler formula. More potent but may be more drying. Lacks the zinc and pH-balancing benefits. Fragrance-free.
Contains 2% salicylic acid with hyaluronic acid and zinc. Similar sebum-control approach but lacks the patented Fluidactiv complex. More affordable option.
2% salicylic acid with ceramides and niacinamide. Wash-off format rather than leave-on toner. Contains beneficial ceramides for barrier support but less targeted for oil control.
Leave-on BHA toner with fruit acids. Similar exfoliating approach but without the specialized sebum-regulating technology. Good middle-ground option.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDEStorage & shelf life
12 MONTHS12 months after opening
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. No refrigeration required.
Plastic bottle with flip-top cap for hygienic dispensing
No - 200ml exceeds TSA carry-on liquid limit. Decant into smaller container for travel.
Frequently asked questions
FAQUse with caution. This product contains salicylic acid, which is generally considered safe at low concentrations (under 2%) according to the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists. However, it's always recommended to consult with your healthcare provider before using any products containing salicylic acid during pregnancy. For breastfeeding, topical salicylic acid is unlikely to be absorbed into breast milk in significant amounts, but avoid applying to areas that may come in contact with your baby.
No, this product is NOT fungal acne safe. It contains Polysorbate 20, which is flagged as a potential trigger for malassezia (pityrosporum folliculitis). If you suffer from fungal acne, consider alternatives like Malezia products or other fungal-acne-safe toners that avoid polysorbates, ferments, fatty acids, and esters.
This product already contains salicylic acid (BHA), so be cautious about layering with other exfoliating acids. You can use it with vitamin C and niacinamide safely. If using retinol, apply Sébium Lotion in the morning and retinol at night to avoid over-exfoliation. If using AHAs, alternate days or use them at different times of day. Always introduce new actives gradually and monitor your skin for irritation.
Bioderma Sébium Lotion is specifically formulated for oily and combination skin types, even sensitive ones. It's excellent for those who struggle with excess sebum, enlarged pores, and occasional blemishes. It's also suitable for teens from age 12+ dealing with early acne. Those with very dry skin may find it insufficient on its own and should follow with a richer moisturizer.
Results vary but clinical studies show: immediate comfort and hydration from first use, -27% sebum production within 7 days, and -40% sebum reduction with visibly refined pores by 28 days. Most users report noticeable improvements in skin texture and oil control within 2-3 weeks of consistent twice-daily use.
Apply Sébium Lotion as the second step in your routine, immediately after cleansing. Use it before serums, moisturizers, and sunscreen. Apply to clean, dry skin using fingertips or a cotton pad. It can be used both morning and evening. In the morning, always follow with sunscreen as salicylic acid can increase sun sensitivity.
No, Bioderma Sébium Lotion is clinically tested and certified non-comedogenic. It has a comedogenic rating of 1/5, meaning it has a very low likelihood of clogging pores. The formula is specifically designed to prevent pore congestion through its Fluidactiv™ complex, which keeps sebum fluid and prevents the blockages that lead to blackheads and blemishes.
The Period After Opening (PAO) is 12 months. Once opened, use within one year for optimal efficacy and safety. Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. The 200ml bottle typically lasts 3-4 months with twice-daily use on the face.
Verdict: Bioderma Sébium Lotion is an excellent choice for those with oily or combination skin seeking a science-backed, dermatologist-recommended toner. Its unique Fluidactiv™ technology sets it apart from simple BHA toners by targeting sebum quality at the source. The 8-hour hydration ensures your skin stays balanced without becoming dehydrated. While the presence of Polysorbate 20 makes it unsuitable for fungal acne sufferers, and the light fragrance may not suit everyone, its proven efficacy in reducing sebum production (-40% in 28 days) and refining pores makes it a standout French pharmacy staple worth trying. For best results, use consistently as part of the complete Sébium routine.
Product Overview
Quick product notes are a great way to check if a product is free from commonly avoided ingredients by skincare enthusiasts. These preferences come about for different reasons depending on the ingredient such as personal experiences, sensitivities, health preferences & etc.
Just because a product is not free from a common preference does not mean it's a bad product! You can make a personal decision whether or not you want to use a product that contains these ingredients or not - click the labels of the preference to read more about them.
Quick Product Notes
Ever used a product that promised a certain effect but provided no results? It might not have contained any notable ingredients that could have been responsible for that promised effect. It doesn't matter what the marketing or packaging «promises» it can do, if it doesn't contain anything that can help - then the likelihood of it helping is low.
We help you identify key notable ingredients that have been shown to help with effects such as acne-fighting, brightening, UV-protection, wound healing & anti-aging to help you achieve your skincare goals smarter. Please note that different notable ingredients have varying levels of research behind them, some are extremely well proven yet some have mixed research in their efficacy.
Just because a product doesn't contain any notable ingredients doesn't mean it's bad. And a product with notable ingredients (or even many) doesn't necessarily guarantee the efficacy of the product performing these effects either. There are other factors such as ingredient quality, concentration and formulation that will ultimately determine this.
Be smart and use this as just a starting point for you to make more informed and smarter choices and compare it with reviews to see if the product is right for you
Notable Effects & Ingredients
Why are some products great for some people and horrible for others? Well everyone has different skin types and different reactions to the same ingredients.
We've identified a range of ingredients that are commonly regarded as potentially good or bad for those with Dry, Oily/Acne-Prone or Sensitive skin.
A product that contains good or bad ingredients for your skin type doesn't always flat out make the entire product good or bad for your skin. There are other factors such as ingredient quality, concentration and formulation that will ultimately determine your skins reaction.
One of the best ways to use this section is to troubleshoot products you've had bad experiences with in the past. Check if it contains any of the marked ingredients to point out suspect ingredients to avoid in the future!
Ingredients Related to Skin Types
Ingredient Safety Breakdown refers to the percentage % of ingredients in different risk categories as classified by EWG (Environment Working Group) if they are available. There are almost endless cosmetic ingredients and they are one of the few organisations globally that have assigned ratings to a lot of the more commonly used ingredients which is why we reference them.
EWG is seen by many to be more on the alarmist side in their assignment of health ratings resulting in rating ingredients as riskier than they actually are. We recommend using this a reference point rather than a strict guide of ingredient safety and to always do further research if into ingredients that you may find suspect.
Ingredient Safety Breakdown
Product ingredient list
| EWG | CIR | Ingredient Name & Cosmetic Functions | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 0 |
PEG-11 Methyl Ether Dimethicone
Emulsifying, Skin Conditioning
|
|
|
| 1 |
Butylene Glycol
Solvent, Skin Conditioning, Masking, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Controlling, Viscositydecreasing Agent
|
Hydrating
|
|
| 0 |
Fomes Officinalis Extract
Skin Protecting
|
|
|
| 1 |
Capryloyl Glycine
Surfactant, Hair Conditioning, Cleansing
|
|
|
| 1 |
Sodium Citrate
Masking, Ph Adjuster, Buffering Agent, Chelating
|
|









