This year I have gone five times to Paris and on each occasion I have thought the same thing: there is something fascinating about watching how the French women take care of themselves. They do not follow passing trends nor endless routines, but they manage to achieve that fresh, luminous, and apparently effortless skin that we all admire. Their routines are simple, but they choose very well the products they use.
In fact, there is the secret, in the less is more philosophy. The Parisians invest in products that really work, that respect the skin, and that deliver visible results in a very natural way. They prioritize good cleansing, quality hydration, and textures that melt with the dermis so that nothing is harsh or excessive.
Moreover, they barely wear makeup; they focus on protecting, perfecting and providing a touch of color on gray days (which in winter is practically every day). So, during my last visit I stopped by my trusted pharmacy, and these six products are the ones I brought home for a beauty look with a healthy glow.
Beauty Essentials French Women Use Daily
Institut Esthederm Intensive Hyaluronic Serum.
Institut Esthederm Intensive Hyaluronic Serum. This serum is an effective solution for skin that suffers from dehydration, tightness, and pronounced lines. Its formula combines different molecular weights of hyaluronic acid to act in all layers of the skin: it hydrates on the surface, preserves water in the epidermis, and stimulates the natural synthesis of hyaluronic acid for a visible and lasting plumping effect. The result is denser, juicier skin with fewer wrinkles from the first applications.
La Rosée Organic Shea Butter Facial Hydrating Cream.
La Rosée Organic Shea Butter Facial Hydrating Cream. Highly recommended if you have dry or very dry skin. Organic shea butter acts as a deep hydration ambassador, delivering immediate comfort, elasticity, and a softness noticeable from the first application. Its rich but non-greasy texture absorbs quickly, leaving the face flexible and rested-looking, while its natural vanilla aroma provides a warm and delicate sensation. In addition, the ultraclean formula, suitable even for pregnant women, is designed to respect sensitive skin and restore vitality to those who suffer tightness or lack of comfort.
Gamarde Mineral Sunscreen Fluid SPF50.
Gamarde Mineral Sunscreen Fluid SPF50. It combines 100% mineral filters to provide high protection against UVA and UVB without resorting to chemical filters. Its surprisingly fluid and invisible texture blends in without leaving white traces, making it an ideal option for fair, sensitive, or reactive skin. In addition, being a vegan and 100% natural formula, it is as respectful of the skin as it is of the environment.
L’Absolue Pureté The Absolute Cleanser by Joëlle Ciocco.
L’Absolue Pureté The Absolute Cleanser by Joëlle Ciocco. This creamy cleanser has been designed for those seeking a deep yet sensorial cleansing, especially in the shower. Its wheat germ microcapsules and avocado oils release nutrients on contact with water, leaving the skin clean, soft, and with an immediate feeling of comfort. It is a formulation with 92% natural-origin ingredients, very respectful of the skin.
La Roche-Posay Cicaplast Baume B5.
La Roche-Posay Cicaplast Baume B5. It is the essential French classic in any home. Its reparative formula, enriched with madecassoside and panthenol, soothes irritation, nourishes dry areas, and helps restore the skin’s protective barrier. Suitable for babies, children, and adults, making it a multifunctional staple you will use more than you think once you get used to it.
MAC Future Favourites Mini Lip & Eye Kit (Limited Edition).
MAC Future Favourites Mini Lip & Eye Kit (Limited Edition). Only the lashes and lips are colored, and I’ve found this MAC set that includes everything you need. Ideal for carrying in a purse and perfect for those who love practical yet striking makeup.
