If you have ever been to France, you may have noticed that so many French women are effortlessly chic and swear by their best french skincare products.

When it comes to their skincare, French women like to keep things simple and tend to focus on the product formulations, active ingredients and sustainability rather than packaging and buzz. This minimalist approach means they quickly find a routine that suits them and the cult products they swear by. Having grown up in France, I have adopted a similar approach to my skincare which seems to have paid off so far! So here are 7 skincare products that French women (and myself) swear by.

Our Favourite Cult French Skincare Products

Bioderma Sensibio H2O Micellar Cleanser

Developed specifically for sensitive skin, this has quickly become a cult product in France and rightly so. This micellar water acts as a magnet that gently pulls away makeup, dirt and pollution from the skin without causing irritation. We recommend using this as a first step in your evening routine to remove impurities of the day.

La Roche Posay Toleriane Cleanser

Another product originally formulated for sensitive skin but suitable for all skin types, this gentle cleanser is a great second step after the micellar water. It removes the last traces of makeup and impurity for a completely clean skin that is left hydrated and comfortable. Formulated with their signature thermal water filled with minerals, it’s a cult cleaner with French women.

Ialuset Hyaluronic Acid Cream

The Ialuset Hyaluronic Acid cream is a perfect example of French women focusing on the product formulation and results rather than packaging. Granted this does not have skincare Pinterest board appeal to it, this is by far one of the most incredible hyaluronic acid creams on the market. It leaves skin hydrated, plumped, replenished and soft like not other hyaluronic acid products I have tried at three times the cost.

A313 Retinol Pommade

This might look like something you would put on mosquito bites but trust us when we say this is by far one of the best retinol creams out there, especially for sensitive skin. Compared to other retinol products on the market, A313 pommade is formulated to be an incredibly stable form of retinol. It has developed a cult following in France and all over the world with countless women (and men) saying this has completely changed their skin. Click here to view a TikToker discuss why she loves this pommade and the before/after results.

This is a product you can use for a whole range of skincare concerns: acne, enlarged pores, signs of ageing, pigmentation & more. We recommend waiting at least 10 minutes after cleansing your skin before applying this as any moisture left on the skin with retinol products can lead to an itchy sensation and irritation. You might find this sold out in many places (that’s how good it is) so sign-up for back in stock alerts.

Best French Skincare Moisturiser

Used by models and makeup artists worldwide, this moisturiser can be used in the evening as well as under your makeup for a flawless and glowy finish. It helps your makeup look natural and seamless and keeps your skin moisturised all day. Rich in essential fatty acids and vitamins, it improves your natural skin care barrier and improves the appearance of your skin overtime. This moisturiser has definitely earned its spot in the list of the top cult french skincare products.

Best French Skincare SPF

SPF is a step you just cannot miss in your skincare routine and French women know this regardless of the season or how much time they will be spending outside. This tinted SPF by La Roche Posay is ideal for sensitive skin and because it’s tinted, you can even skip foundation and concealer if so inclined.

Best French Skincare Body Lotion

When thinking about skincare, it’s easy to focus just on our faces. But body care is just as important and more often forgotten about. This light weight body lotion applies like a dream, leaves skin quenched and comfortable. Enriched with Niacinamide as well as Vitamin C and E, it’s also fragrance free so great for anyone with sensitive skin. Another cult favourite!