Vogue’s Guide to French Beauty

A trip to the Louvre, a train to the French countryside, or a stroll down the Seine aren’t the only reasons to visit France. The French pharmacy has become its own cultural landmark—with its shelves stocked with gentle yet restorative skin and hair salves suitable for any visitor. Fortunately, bits by La Roche-Posay, Nuxe, and Vichy are available stateside without requiring a trip across the Atlantic.

“The Ferrari of shampoos, Kérastase Chronologiste’s revitalizing formula leaves your hair so clean and smooth, and with a divine scent.” —Julia Tissot-Gaillard, CEO of Altesse Studio and Fournival Altesse

“I love La Bronne Bosse. The founders are amazing and their brushes are so beautiful you ll want to try them all in different colors. I carry it with me everywhere.” —Camille Yolaine, writer and founder

“I adore this eau de toilette because it reminds me of the French Riviera where I grew up, with its notes of citrus and bergamot. The citrus evokes the South, while the bergamot brings back memories of the tea my mother made every morning. This lightly scented parfum captures both childhood memories and the delicacy of nature. It is fresh, radiant, tangy, and sunlit.” —Natacha Bonjout, pharmacist founder of Bonjout Beauty

“Between manicures, this nail polish is a real highlighter for your nails, repairing them, strengthening them and leaving them satin smooth with a myriad of iridescent effects. A special shout-out goes to its antioxidant formula (75% bio-sourced!), rich in beetroot extract.” —Mélanie Defouilloy, Vogue France beauty market editor

“Rouge H by Hermès, steeped in the prestigious heritage of the French house is, in my opinion, the perfect lipstick, for numerous reasons. Ultra-melting, its moisturizing formula glides onto the lips while nourishing them, and fades subtly over the course of the day, without unsightly smudging. It is simply indestructible.” —Mélanie Nauche, Vogue France beauty editor

“Whenever my hair needs some rehab, I reach for this mask designed by the star Parisian hairdresser, Christophe Robin. Its trademark ingredients, rare prickly pear oil and Inula flower extracts, deeply regenerate the hair fibers. It’s a lifesaver for my bleached hair, which is softer than ever and has unparalleled shine after the mask. I also have a mini version that I can take with me when I go on vacation to look after my hair when it gets dried out by the sun and sea salt.” —Marie Bladt, Vogue France wellness beauty editor

“This sunscreen is a true marvel. Lightweight and non-greasy, it offers sun protection while providing anti-aging benefits. It doesn t leave any white cast, making it perfect for everyday wear and for all skin type.” —Emmanuelle Koffi, influencer

“I have a passion for blush, I have so many but this one is very easy to use (even without a brush) as it is a creamy stick. The color is pink goldish so it gives an immediate glow! Plus it has camellia oil and karité shea butter for skin hydration.” —Virginie Dhello, influencer