If there's one thing I trust any French person with, it's skincare. I'm sure you know by now that France is home to some of the best skincare brands on the market, from Bioderma to La Roche-Posay and Caudalie. Not only that but whenever I meet anyone from France, they always seem to have impeccable skin. I've been desperate to re-create that effortless, Parisian-looking glow, but as someone who lives in the UK and is constantly battling changing weather, central heating, hard water (thank you, London) and more, it's safe to say that my skin is feeling a little bit worse for wear at the moment.
However, in a bid to turn things around for the new year, I decided to reach out to a French skincare expert to find out what the main differences are between French and British skincare and see how I can incorporate some changes into my routine. I spoke to Seth Catalano, head of education at Caudalie for the UK and Ireland (one of my favourite French skincare brands), so keep on scrolling to see what he had to say.
Why Is French Skincare So Popular?
First things first, I was keen to find out why French skincare has become so popular over the years. According to Catalano, this is all down to its simplicity. "French skincare, much like French fashion, exudes effortlessness and confidence," he says. "It promises results without the demand of a strict or confusing regimen. You don't have to compromise; French skincare is accessible, results-driven and a joy to use."
I couldn't agree more. Back when I was a teenager, I was trying anything and everything to clear up my spots and help balance my oily complexion. However, after getting some much-needed help on the subject, I stripped everything back and used a simple skincare routine from only three brands: La-Roche Posay, Avène and Caudalie. It was only later, once my skin had finally settled, that I found out these brands were in fact French pharmacy staples, and they've remained in my collection ever since thanks to their results-driven formulas.
What Are the Differences Between French And British Skincare?
So, what are the differences between French and British skincare, and how can we change our routines to get that famous glow? "I’ve observed that British skincare is often driven by newness and trends," says Catalano. In contrast, he says that French skincare is about results and experience. "It's a matter of excitement vs. enrichment. There is certainly room for both, but I know I'll always fall back on my French skincare favorites!" he says.
As a beauty editor, I know that sometimes it can feel overwhelming trying to navigate all of the different skincare trends out there. After watching videos on TikTok for example, it often seems as if you need hundreds of products in your routine to see results. If you want to follow more of a French-inspired skincare routine, then it's time to forget these trends and focus on what works for you. Choose products that feel good on the skin and deliver results, instead of new, trending launches that might not work for your skin type (and might cost you a fortune).
In terms of creating your own French-inspired skincare routine, Catalano says to build it in the order you would apply the products. "At Caudalie, we start by balancing the skin through gentle cleansing and toning to welcome the best results from the treatment steps. Remember that French skincare combines clinical results with the pleasure of self-care." And his top tip when it comes to skincare? "Above all, the key to the best results is prevention. Invest in formulas with clinical research and never forget sun protection!"
I don't know about you, but I'm now feeling inspired to switch up my routine, so keep on scrolling to shop some of my French-pharmacy favourites…
This is, hands down, the best micellar water I've ever used. It's developed for sensitive skin so doesn't cause me any irritation, and it removes even the stubbornest makeup (that being said, I always make sure to double cleanse to get rid of any underlying grime).
The name of this cream is fitting, because when I apply it, I really do feel like I'm wrapping up my skin in a soft, cashmere blanket. With a vegan collagen booster and hyaluronic acid, my complexion is left looking bouncy and plump.
If you want an effective cleanser that won't leave your skin feeling dry and stripped, you can't go wrong with La Roche-Posay. The Toleraine cleanser has been formulated for even the most sensitive of skin, and the milky texture is a dream to use.
This serum is one of Caudalie's best sellers, and it's not hard to see why. Formulated using the brand's patented viniferine ingredient, it helps reduce unwanted pigmentation and will leave your skin luminous.
This is one of the best SPFs I have ever used. The lightweight formula sinks into the skin and delivers protection against UVA, UVB and ultra-long UVA rays.
Vichy is another one of my favourite French skincare brands, and the Minéral 89 range is great for delivering a serious boost of hydration, which is why I reach for this in the winter months.
Speaking of hydration, Avène's Thermal Spring Water Spray is great for refreshing and soothing the skin on the go. I use this all year round, but it's a must-have in the summer months.
I'm a big fan of cleansing oils for removing makeup, so when I saw that Bioderma did one for sensitive skin, it went in my basket straight away.
Another great SPF option comes from Caudalie. This also has a super-lightweight formula and is fragrance-free for those with sensitive skin.
I recently got my hands on this serum from Bioderma, and I've been using it every night as it leaves my skin feeling so soft and bouncy.
If your skin is feeling a little bit irritated, this moisturiser from Avène helps to soothe discomfort whilst also working to support the skin's barrier.
Another favourite of mine from the Vichy Minéral 89 range is this hydrating serum. Rich in hyaluronic acid and the brand’s highest concentration of volcanic mineralising water, trust me when I say that this will leave you quenched and glowing.
Next Up: These 15 Hydrating Eye Creams Will Plump, Smooth, and Refresh Tired Eyes
