For most fashionistas in the world, it is important that their arsenal of cosmetics includes at least one French face cream from a well-known brand. As in clothing, in cosmetology, France has remained a trendsetter for centuries. Its manufacturers strive to maintain the brand and not lose the championship won by their ancestors.
French cosmetics can be purchased not only in boutiques and stores. Many de France products are sold in pharmacies. This is due to the fact that some brands from the Fifth Republic strive to create products of impeccable quality that provide excellent care and protection to the skin. Most of the professional brands in the country are 100% compliant with today's preconceived norms and quality standards.
What is remarkable about French cosmetics?
French cosmetics in general have established themselves as high-quality products for comprehensive skin care for the face and body. Almost all professional brands meet all global cosmetic standards and norms, and many of them are niche leaders in the global market.
However, when choosing a specific brand, you should first decide what problems this cosmetics should solve, because the list of properties and effects is quite large: from masking imperfections in appearance, caring for on a daily basis, to purely therapeutic functions for rejuvenating the skin.
There are a number of advantages of skincare products from France, the list is approximately as follows:
- time-tested quality;
- Professional cosmetologists, stylists and dermatologists take part in the development of products;
- a wide range of;
- the main base of creams, oils, balms and other things are natural ingredients (extracts from herbs, flowers, berries). We can talk about the environmental friendliness of cosmetic products;
- the ingredients included in the creams have, in addition to cosmetic, also a therapeutic effect;
- cosmetics are hypoallergenic and can be used by people with sensitive skin;
- made according to ancient recipes;
- stylish design of jars and tubes.
In addition to the positive aspects, there are several not very pleasant ones:
- high price;
- small release of some drugs.
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Natural and non-natural cosmetics
In everyday life, a woman uses several cosmetic products. Therefore, I would like the components included in cosmetics to be natural and not harmful to the skin. The organic composition of cosmetics helps the skin independently cope with negative factors, increase local immunity, and restore.
The absence of harmful substances, including heavy metals, in the composition of the products makes the skin more beautiful and does not injure it.
When choosing cosmetics, you need to study its composition.
If one of the following ingredients is present, it is better not to purchase this product:
- Propylene glycol is a strong allergen, the main component in brake and antifreeze fluids;
- Sodium lauryl - causes allergic reactions and inflammation, petroleum product;
- Formaldehyde is a toxic chemical that can cause serious problems in the body;
- Parabens are preservatives that negatively affect the body and can cause breast cancer in women;
- Mineral oils - create a thin shell and do not allow the skin to breathe, thereby accumulated toxins can cause serious problems and allergic reactions;
- Vaseline – clogs pores and prevents the skin from “breathing”;
- Flavors and dyes are carcinogens that affect the health of the body as a whole.
Cosmetics are considered natural if:
- it contains components that are grown in environmental conditions, without the use of chemicals;
- no synthetic substances in the composition;
- the production of cosmetics and the cultivation of its components does not harm the environment;
- the packaging is environmentally friendly.
French cosmetics (the brands listed below produce organic products) should definitely be in the cosmetic bag of a woman who cares about her skin and health:
- Patyka – these are creams, shower gels, masks, tonics, perfumes and other products containing 25% natural ingredients. Cosmetics of this brand are quite expensive, starting from 1,500 rubles.
- HIP - the best indicator of cosmetics is that they can be ingested, this fact applies to this brand. The series of this brand contains a tonic to enhance vitality. As well as products for face, body and hair. The components included in the composition are completely natural: essential oils, herbal substances and vitamins. These are luxury cosmetics, prices start from 1100 rubles.
- Avene - the basis of this brand is natural thermal water, it occupies 55% of the composition of the products. Cosmetics do not contain preservatives, fragrances, or dyes. The cost of various products of this brand on the Russian market is from 1000 rubles and more.
Main characteristics of the composition of cosmetic products
| Number | Characteristics | Recommendations |
| 1 | Composition basis | Skin care products are made on the basis of an emulsion - oil and water mixed in certain proportions. Water acts as a solvent, and oils soften the skin and replace the natural lubricant that is removed when washing. Emulsions come in two types: oil-dominant and water-dominant. The softest creams in consistency are produced on the basis of an aqueous liquid with a suspension of oil droplets. And the best products with protective properties are produced using an emulsion in the form of drops of water in oil, but this adds “heaviness” to the composition. |
| 2 | Emulsifiers | These are special substances that are added to cosmetic products to achieve emulsion stability. |
| 3 | Emulsifiers | They do not allow the emulsion to separate into separate components. |
| 4 | Synthetic substitutes for natural fats | As a rule, manufacturers use chemical compounds such as isopropyl myristate, cetiolane, and butyl stearate. |
| 5 | Preservatives | They are used to consolidate the composition and extend the shelf life. The cosmetics market offers products without preservatives, as the trends in the beauty industry in the last decade have been moving towards everything natural. However, creams without preservatives quickly deteriorate and there is a threat that pathogenic bacteria will begin to multiply in them. |
| 6 | Bacteriostatics | Used to prevent the development of bacteria in the nutrient medium. There are synthetic and natural bacteriostatics. The latter include eucalyptus extract, propolis, extract from bird cherry and birch leaves. |
| 7 | Parabens | Parabens are a group of gentle preservatives - they do not dry the skin and do not cause allergic rashes. But recently there has been an opinion that parabens are harmful to the skin. |
| 8 | Structure-forming substances | They also come in both natural and artificial. Natural beeswax, which additionally forms a protective film on the skin and prevents dehydration. Synthetic ones include glycerol monostearate, distilled monoglyceride, stearate, stearin and other compounds used as thickeners. |
| 9 | Dietary supplements | Determine the effectiveness of a cosmetic product. The most common biological additives include plant extracts (calendula, jojoba, avocado, chamomile, etc.), collagen, elastin, ceramides, keratin, hyaluronic acid, superoxide dimustase, ultraviolet filters (zinc oxide or titanium dioxide that block solar radiation) , alpha-hydroxy (fruit) acids obtained from apples, sugar cane, lemons and other tropical plants. All these substances are useful and necessary for the skin. |
| 10 | Vitamins | Often indicated in the composition under various names - antioxidants (vitamins C and E), retinol (vitamin A) and others. |
| 11 | Sulfates | Indicated on labels as SLS (Sodium Lauryl Sulfate), SLES (Sodium Laureth Sulfate), ALS (Ammonium Lauryl Sulfate) and ALES (Ammonium Laureth Sulfate). Sulfates belong to surfactants (surfactants), which are used to form a stable and well-cleaning foam, which can cause irritation, allergic reactions, itching, flaking, and, with prolonged use, dermatological diseases. |
| 12 | What is the price | French cosmetics vary greatly in price, and the price-quality ratio is not always met - budget products can sometimes exceed all expectations, being in no way inferior to expensive products. In general, the average price for a professional product is 3,500 rubles, a pharmacy product is 1,700 rubles, and for cosmetics in the mass segment is 800 rubles. |
Cosmetics Vichy (Vichy)
The history of French cosmetics Vichy as a brand began in 1931, when Georges Guerin (manager of the perfume company) and Dr. Prosper Allaire had the idea of creating cosmetics based on thermal water from springs in the city of Vichy. In 1955, the Vichy company became part of the L'Oreal concern. Vichy occupies a significant market share and belongs to “luxury” cosmetics.
Vichy cosmetics are created on the basis of the latest scientific developments, and contain both natural and synthetic ingredients. Vichy has several lines: Idealia - to combat imperfections; LiftActiv – age-related cosmetics; Aqualia Thermal – supports youth at the cellular level; Neovadiol – care for mature skin.
Products produced by Vichy - creams, serums, deodorants, etc. - are presented in pharmacy chains. French cosmetics (the brands listed above) are not so often found in pharmacies. Vichy is the most popular of all.
Here are some of the most frequently purchased products:
| Name | Description | Price |
| Vichy Slow Age Cream Fluid | Slows down aging, corrects age-related changes: wrinkles, pigmentation, complexion. Effect – makes the skin strong, protects against aging. Compound:
| From 1800 rubles |
| Vichy Dercos Technique shampoo | Fights hair loss. Effect: stronger, more beautiful hair. No parabens. Contains:
| From 850 rubles |
| Vichy Sensitive Anti-Transpirant Deodorant 48H2 | Protects against sweat odor for 48 hours, does not leave stains on clothes, and dries quickly. Compound:
| From 1000 rubles |
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What to bring from France?
Many products produced by the best French manufacturers are available to order online. However, there are popular products that can only be bought in the homeland of impressionism.
- Lavender soap from Provence
Produced in the southeastern region of France, which combines the Alps and the Côte d'Azur into a single region, soaps are known for their amazing variety of scents, including peach, cherry and even tomato. Exactly what you need to surprise and delight your friends upon returning from a trip.
- Homeoplasmine ointment
Designed specifically to meet the needs of dry and irritated skin. The drug is applied to flaky lips, elbows, cheeks, and is also used for small wounds, herpes, etc. Experienced makeup artists use this miracle ointment as a lip mask, applying it in a thick layer to the lips of models in preparation for photography or fashion shows.
- Biafine cream
It was originally created by French pharmacists as a restorative for sunburn, but very quickly began to be used for other purposes - to moisturize and cleanse the skin, to smooth out scars, to resolve bruises and heal abrasions. Due to the versatility and high quality of this cream, it can be found not only in the medicine cabinet of ordinary French people, but also in some world-famous stars.
- Avibon cream stick
It is almost impossible to find outside of France, so when you are there it is best to take several pieces at once - they will come in handy. The drug contains a record amount of vitamin A, and therefore perfectly softens dry and hardened areas of the skin, and also smoothes out wrinkles.
- Blush Les Merveilleuses de Laduree Face Color Rose Laduree
Surprisingly, the brand that produces this product belongs to the Laduree confectionery house. The main feature of the blush is that it comes in the form of rose petals, carefully placed in a beautiful box. An ideal present for any girl.
- Vitamins Oenobiol
They managed to become famous throughout the world. There are several complexes designed taking into account women's needs. Some French combinations are taken to solve various women's problems, others to improve complexion, others to stimulate tanning, and others to eliminate cellulite. However, the most popular are vitamin formulations that help enhance hair and nail growth.
- Collosol Cleansing Milk
A classic of the French cosmetics industry and almost a rarity, dearly loved by all native French women. It is invariably produced according to a recipe compiled many years ago. It is used extremely simply - applied with a cotton pad and does not need to be rinsed, since the light, delicate texture of the milk cleanses the face without leaving a trace, and the skin becomes soft and velvety. If desired (and have a large supply), you can use it on the whole body.
Advantages and disadvantages
Advantages:
- The highest quality products that meet international standards;
- A unique combination of therapeutic and cosmetic effects;
- Manufacturers do not promise the impossible, but declare only those qualities that cosmetics actually possess;
- The production of French cosmetic products is carried out using the latest equipment, and manufacturing methods are constantly being improved;
- Recipes are based on the latest developments;
- France is the birthplace of legendary beauty brands, whose history goes back decades of successful activity;
- The compositions of French cosmetics are filled with plant extracts that are rich in the diverse flora of the Fifth Republic.
Flaws:
- High cost with often insignificant volume;
- Lack of information about products in open sources.
Cosmetics L'Oreal (Loreal)
L'Oreal's oldest cosmetic line was founded in 1909 and is a world leader in perfumes and cosmetics. In addition to skin care cosmetics, decorative cosmetics, and shampoos, L'Oreal also produces perfumes and hair dye.
French cosmetics (brands listed in pharmacies: Vichy and La Roshe Posay from L'Oreal), as well as “luxury” cosmetics (Cacharel, Urban Decay from the same brand), are in demand among consumers.
Among the most popular are the following L'Oreal products:
| Name | Description | Price |
| Day cream Age Expert | Anti-aging cream: smoothes wrinkles, tightens facial contours, refreshes. Effect: strengthens the skin, fights wrinkles, moisturizes. Compound:
| From 330 rubles |
| Casting Creme Gloss | Ammonia-free dye - preserves hair structure, adds shine, and colors. The effect is strong beautiful hair. Compound:
| From 300 rubles |
| Shampoo Elsev Arginine Power | Strengthens hair, prevents hair loss, restores the structure of damaged hair. Effect: strong beautiful hair. Compound:
| From 330 rubles |
List of the best manufacturing companies
The list of the best products for facial skin created by French manufacturers contains only high-quality creams that have the best characteristics. We will talk about them further.
The list of the best French brands of creams includes the following:
- L'Oreal;
- Garnier;
- L'Occitane Ultra;
- Vichy;
- Institut Esthederm;
- Academy;
- Uriage;
- Lierac;
- Bioderma;
- La Roche-Posay;
- Payot.
Let us next consider the main features of the products represented by some brands from this list, as well as the reviews left by consumers about them.
Cosmetics Garnier (Garnier)
The history of the Garnier company dates back to 1904, when Alfred Garnier released hair lotion. The product caused a “furor” in society. Later, facial products, shampoos, oral lotions, etc. appeared. Garnier currently produces sunscreens, creams, shampoos, hair dyes, deodorants and other cosmetic products.
Garnier is one of the leaders on the Russian market in the production and sale of hair dyes, gels, and creams. The company offers consumers 13 lines.
Garnier products:
| Name | Description | Price |
| BB Cream | A cream that helps cope with skin imperfections. Effect:
Main active ingredients:
| From 310 rubles |
| Roll-on deodorant Invisible Garnier Mineral | Protects against sweat odor for up to 48 hours, allows the skin to breathe, and does not leave marks on clothes. Does not contain alcohol and parabens.
| From 110 rubles |
| Garnier body melting body milk | Softens and moisturizes the skin for up to 7 days, makes the skin velvety, and adds a light aroma. Suitable for all skin types. Active substances in the composition:
| From 250 rubles |
Biosea
The Biosea company is quite young, it was founded in 2003 by Celine Langlais, Doctor of Pharmaceutical Sciences. Cosmetics are based on algae and marine plants. Biosea cosmetics are completely natural, high quality and harmless. Biosea is a relatively new company on the Russian market, since 2013. But it has already won “its” consumer.
Women are attracted to Biosea cosmetics by the fact that they do not contain parabens, silicones, sulfates, and rely on natural ingredients. Cosmetics are sold through pharmacy chains. Biosea produces creams, hair care products, oral care products, perfumes, and decorative cosmetics.
The most popular Biosea products:
| Name | Description | Price |
| Day face cream Prevention Active 30+ | Anti-aging, light antioxidant cream. Moisturizes the skin, maintains mineral balance and saturates with vitamins. Prevents aging, improves skin. Compound:
| Price from 300 rubles |
| No-tear shampoo for babies | Cleanses impurities from the baby's scalp, does not dry out, does not cause redness. Doesn't irritate eyes. The plant components in the composition soothe the scalp, the hydrolipid balance protects against drying out. Compound:
| From 340 rubles |
| Anti-cellulite cream | Reduces the appearance of “orange peel” and prevents the accumulation of excess fluid. Makes skin more elastic and smooth. Compound:
| From 500 rubles |
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Caudalie (Caudal)
French cosmetics under the Caudalie brand dates back to 1993, when a young couple learned about the benefits of grape seeds and decided to create a company producing cosmetic products based on them. The list of products was initially small, but gradually the company gained its market share through natural ingredients and high-quality products.
Caudalie is represented in more than 25 countries and is chosen by many famous people and stars. Many products of this brand have become cult favorites. Caudal produces various masks, creams, scrubs, body care, serums, oils and more.
The most famous products of this brand:
| Name | Description | Price |
| Water for facial beauty in travel format | The product can be used in the morning to wake up, in the evening as a tonic. Makes skin glowing and fixes makeup. Compound:
| From 780 rubles |
| Vinoperfect brightening serum for age spots | Fights pigmentation and prevents the appearance of new age spots. Makes skin glowing. Evens out facial tone. Compound:
| From 3400 rubles |
| Vinosource Night Revitalizing Oil | Nourishes dry skin, acts on the deeper layers of the skin, relieves redness. It has a light aroma and is easily absorbed. Consists of 6 natural oils. | From 1600 rubles |
Lierac
Lierac is a line of French cosmetics, the main action of which is aimed at eliminating age-related changes that occur at different stages of life. Thus, the manufacturer’s arsenal includes products intended for the care of very young skin (Hydra + Chrono), as well as for women in other age categories:
- 20–25 years (Deridium);
- 25+ (Diopti) with the function of preventing premature wrinkles;
- 30+ (Exclusive and Initiatic) to correct the condition of the skin, as well as nourish it and fill it with vital energy;
- 35+ (Lipofilling and Premium), the action of which is aimed at restoring skin elasticity and moisturizing the epidermis;
- 40+ (Coherence) to enrich the skin with collagen;
- 45+ (Arkeskin).
Reviews left by consumers about products produced by this French brand often note the effectiveness of the products, which is reflected in the constant maintenance of facial skin tone, as well as its hydration. It is recommended to purchase such products only through official suppliers, otherwise there is a high risk of receiving a fake at a high cost.
Uriage
The Uriage brand was created in 1992. The main component of cosmetics is thermal water extracted from an ancient healing source in the French Alps. This line can be used by all family members: there are anti-aging creams and products for newborns. The products of this brand are hypoallergenic and do not contain parabens or other substances harmful to the skin.
Uriage is one of the leading companies in the global market. Uriage products are supplied to more than 70 countries. Cosmetics has about 14 lines aimed at combating imperfections. For example, Bariederm is a treatment for sensitive skin; Bariesun – sun protection; Depiderm – to eliminate pigmentation; Bebe – for the care of sensitive skin of babies and others.
The company produces the following products:
- anti-aging creams;
- sunscreens;
- creams that combat skin imperfections;
- moisturizing tonics;
- creams according to skin types;
- masks;
- gels;
- deodorants;
- scrubs;
- intimate hygiene products;
- creams for newborns;
- much more.
Among all the means, the most popular ones can be identified:
| Name | Description | Price |
| Uriage Isaac Paste (care for problem skin) | Has an anti-inflammatory and mattifying effect on problematic, irritated facial skin. Can be used starting from adolescence. Effect: dries out inflamed areas, leaves no traces of acne. The result can be seen in two days. Compound:
| From 1100 rubles |
| The first moisturizing milk for children | It has a moisturizing effect, your baby's skin will be soft and healthy. The milk is well absorbed, hypoallergenic, and has an unobtrusive aroma. Compound:
| From 1400 rubles |
| Moisturizing eye contour cream | Removes signs of tired skin around the eyes: bruises, fine wrinkles, swelling. Brightens and tightens the skin around the eyes. Hypoallergenic. Compound:
| From 820 rubles |
L'Oreal
Considering the list of the best French brands, it is certainly worth mentioning L'Oreal. Creams presented by this manufacturer have been in unprecedented demand for many decades, since 1909, due to the quality of the products, as well as their effectiveness.
Currently, L'Oreal's most popular products include:
- “Age Expert”, designed to combat wrinkles;
- “Basic care” is a product that provides the skin with the proper level of moisture;
- L'Occitane Ultra, ideal for women aged 30-35;
- "Luxury Nourishment" designed to provide skin protection and adequate hydration.
L'Oreal face creams are very popular among women. With regular use, they help refresh the skin, make it taut and elastic.
L occitane (Loccitane)
In 1976, L'occitane was registered in France. Initially, the company's products were rosemary essential oil and Marseille soap. Gradually, perfumes, creams, serums, face and body care products, and shampoos began to be produced under the L'Occitane brand.
The geography of the brand began to grow: in addition to the French, cosmetics are used in Hong Kong, Japan, New York, Russia and other countries. Locsitane is one of the leaders in the production and sale of natural cosmetics.
Among the products of this brand that are in demand:
| Name | Description | Price |
| Perfect face serum Peony | Unveils smoother, more radiant, even-toned skin with a velvety appearance. Tightens pores. Compound:
| From 4700 rubles |
| Almond body firming milk | Moisturizes and tightens the skin, promotes renewal at the cellular level. Contains:
| From 3990 rubles |
| Regenerating shampoo – new formula | For dry and damaged hair, restores hair structure. Cleanses the scalp and hair. Compound:
| From 1600 rubles |
Sothys (Sotis)
Sotis's story began with a small beauty salon in France in 1946. Gradually, skincare cosmetics used in the salon are becoming known in high circles. In 1966, Bernard Mas from a pharmaceutical family became the owner, from that moment the Sothys brand became world famous.
The brand's cosmetics are used in beauty salons, spa salons, and clinics.
Sothys is a world famous brand and is available in many countries, including Russia (since 2009). Sothis includes face and body creams, scrubs, masks, perfumes, decorative cosmetics, and cosmetics for men.
Famous Sothis cosmetic products:
| Name | Description | Price |
| Facial scrub | Stimulates regeneration, makes the skin more elastic, relieves puffiness. Has a delicate texture. No parabens. Active substances:
| From 1950 rubles |
| Cream shower gel with lotus and cherry flowers | Cleanses the skin of the body, makes it soft and silky, relieves tension and fatigue. Active substances:
| From 1690 rubles |
| Peptide serum “ideal oval face” | Models the contour of the face, makes the skin elastic, smoothes wrinkles, and relieves puffiness. Active components:
| From 6000 rubles |
Dr Pierre Ricaud
The Dr Pierre Ricaud company was created in 1986 and was based on cosmetics that slow down the aging process. The company has been on the international market since 1995. The Dr Pierre Ricaud cosmetic line is anti-aging cosmetics; day and night care, sunscreen cosmetics, body, hand, foot care, decorative cosmetics.
Famous cosmetic products:
| Name | Description | Price |
| Night complex cream Optimala | Restores skin, skin looks rested and restored. Active substances:
| From 1520 rubles |
| Supremage Revitalizing cream 3 in 1 | Restores skin, smoothes wrinkles, fights pigment spots. Makes the skin more elastic. Compound:
| From 1950 rubles |
| Renaissance de nuit night regenerating eye cream | Reduces signs of fatigue in the skin around the eyes, works at the cellular level, making the skin around the eyes smoother. Compound:
| From 1100 rubles |
Anti-aging skin care products
- AOX Payot is a rejuvenating and restorative cream.
- Abeille Royale Youth Serum - Guerlain anti-aging skin serum.
- Hydra Beauty is a moisturizing cream-gel from Chanel. Activates the regenerative process in skin cells. Smoothes the skin and gives smoothness.
- Nuxellence Jeunesse is an anti-aging skin cream. Gives elasticity and protects against external factors.
- Revitalift Laser x3 from L'Oreal Paris is a nourishing cream against age-related skin changes.
Avene
The Aven spring in France was discovered in the middle of the 18th century; products based on the thermal waters of this spring began to be produced in 1975. High-quality medicinal cosmetics have won the hearts of consumers around the world.
French cosmetics Avene has more than 10 lines.
The Avene brand has more than 10 lines of cosmetics: for daily use, sunscreens, body cosmetics, men's cosmetics and others. Avene includes creams, lip care, body cosmetics, baby skin care, and more.
The most famous Avene remedies:
| Name | Description | Price |
| Soft lotion | Soothes and cleanses dry and sensitive skin. Active components: · thermal water; · natural silicates; · mild cleansing ingredients. | From 900 rub. |
| Cleansing foam for face and eye area | Cleansing for normal and combination skin. Tightens pores. Hypoallergenic. The main component of the composition: Avene thermal water. | From 1000 rub. |
| Anti-redness day protective cream Antirouger | Reduces redness on sensitive skin. Normalizes microcirculation. Compound:
| From 1160 rub. |
French cosmetics are represented on the world, and in particular on the Russian market, by a large number of brands. Among them there is a large list of companies producing natural products. Many products are presented in pharmacy chains, some in beauty salons, but most are in cosmetics stores.
