Growing Up French:Lifting the Lid on Beauty Secrets

So simple, so effective.

The elusive ‘French Girl’ aesthetic is one of the most intangible secrets. Their effortless sophistication more coveted than a Birkin Bag in NYC. Growing up with a French mother, I was treated to insider insights. It taught me that these Gallic muses are 90% confidence, and the other 10%? Well, I guess I can let you in on a little secret.

A French woman knows that skin care is not a fix, but a daily ritual. As a child, I remember watching my mother slather creams from the forehead, down her décolletage (where your face really ends, she’d say with a wink). The typical French girl is taught about the importance of skincare, rather than makeup, at a young age.

via Instagram @juliarestoinroitfeld

It all starts with the cleanse. Buy a cleanser that is specific to your skin type, not just the one your favourite Instagrammer uses. In the morning simply rinse your face with water, letting it hit your hands rather than straight from the showerhead, which can cause tiny blood vessels in your face to burst. Dry your face by lightly patting (not rubbing) with a soft, clean towel. When you get home and you’re ready to remove your makeup, do so with micellar water, before washing away impurities with your cleanser, using the soft pads of your fingertips to massage the face.

Next, add a moisturiser.

The French know that everything starts with hydration. You can add as much hyaluronic acid to your regime as you want, but if you don’t drink enough water there is no point, and no an iced coffee doesn’t count as water. Carry a water bottle with you, fill it often.

Finally, stay out of the sun. Apart from putting sunscreen on your face, chest and hands, it means a wide brimmed hat, a high-collared shirt to protect your chest and even wearing gloves when driving to shield your hands from sun exposure. Extreme, oui. Regrets, non.