When it comes to luxury skincare, French brands are in a league of their own. From centuries-old perfumeries to innovative modern beauty companies, French skincare brands are renowned for their high-quality ingredients, expert formulations, and elegant packaging. But what sets these brands apart from the less expensive brands?
Let’s scrutinize luxury French skincare and find out what makes these companies so special, as well as highlight some of the top products to look out for. Whether you’re a skincare aficionado or simply looking to indulge in some pampering self-care, high-end French skincare will surely deliver results that will leave you looking and feeling your best.
Clarins
Clarins is a French luxury skincare brand that was founded in 1954 by Jacques Courtin-Clarins. Initially, the brand started as a beauty institute offering massage and other beauty treatments to its clients. Later on, the brand expanded its product line and began producing high-end skincare products that incorporated natural ingredients.
The brand’s philosophy is based on the belief that beauty is a reflection of inner balance and well-being. Clarins is one of the best luxury brands in Paris due to its use of high-quality, organic ingredients and its commitment to scientific research to create innovative products. Sample size Clarins products are offered in Air France’s care packages for their business and first-class passengers during international flights!
Some of Clarins’ best-selling skincare products include the Double Serum, a two-phase anti-aging serum that aims to help reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, enhance skin hydration, and improve skin texture and radiance. It is formulated with a powerful blend of plant extracts that millions of women love.
Clarins also makes several extraordinary face creams. The Extra-Firming Day Cream is one of the all-around best for hydrating and anti-aging. Clarins products are known for their luxurious feel, effectiveness, and ability to provide visible results.
Guerlain
Guerlain is a French luxury skincare brand that was founded in 1828 by Pierre-Francois Pascal Guerlain. Initially, the brand started as a perfume house, but it later expanded into the skincare industry. The brand is renowned for using proprietary formulas and natural ingredients. Guerlain’s mission is based on creating elegant and compelling skincare products that cater to every skin type. The brand’s dedication to using the highest quality ingredients, combined with its dermo-cosmetic research, has cemented its place as a luxury skincare brand.
Guerlain’s best-selling skincare products are definitely the most iconic and sought-after in the industry.
One of the brand’s most famous product lines is the Abeille Royale range, which features honey as a key ingredient. The Abeille Royale Youth Watery Oil is a bestseller that is known for its ability to provide a youthful glow to the skin.
Another popular range is the Orchidée Impériale line, which features orchid extract as a key ingredient. This line includes ultra-high-end anti-aging products, such as the Orchidée Impériale Longevity Concentrate Serum, which is known for its luxurious texture and ability to provide density and firmness to the face.
The brand’s Super Aqua line is also popular among dry skin types with products formulated to hydrate mature skin and prevent aging due to dryness. The Super Aqua Hydrating Serum is one of its bestselling products.
Sisley
Sisley is a French luxury skincare brand that was founded in 1976 by Hubert and Isabelle d’Ornano. The brand’s philosophy revolves around using natural plant extracts and essential oils to create effective and luxurious skincare products. The brand is also known for its attention to detail and elegant packaging, which further reinforces its luxury status.
Sisley’s high-performance skincare products are some of the most iconic and effective in the industry. One of the brand’s most luxurious products is the Sisleÿa L’Integral Anti-Age Cream, which is a high-end and targeted anti-aging cream that is developed to diminish all visible signs of aging. The cream contains a blend of plant-based extracts and essential oils, such as Persian Acacia and Lindera extracts, which help to improve the skin’s firmness, texture, and radiance.
Another cult favorite among luxury skincare lovers is the Black Rose Cream Mask, which is a luxurious and hydrating face mask that is infused with Black Rose extract. The mask is known for its ability to provide intense hydration, brighten the skin, and restore its youthful glow.
The brand’s Phyto-Blanc line is also very high-end, with the Phyto-Blanc Le Concentré Pure Bright Activating Serum being one of its best-selling products.
Lancôme
Lancôme is a luxury skincare brand that was founded in 1935 by Armand Petitjean. The brand’s name was inspired by the ruins of a castle, Le Château de Lancosme, which Petitjean discovered while traveling through the French countryside. Lancôme’s philosophy is based on developing premium and practical skincare products that cater to every skin type. Lancôme’s dedication to quality and luxury has made it one of the most iconic and respected skincare brands in the industry.
Lancôme’s best-selling skincare products are known as the most famous and effective in the European skincare industry. One of the brand’s most beloved products is the Advanced Génifique Youth Activating Serum, which is a powerful anti-aging concentrate that is created to improve the skin’s texture, tone, and radiance. The serum has a unique mix of natural ingredients, such as bifidus extract, that help to improve the skin’s barrier function and protect it against environmental stressors.
Another high-end product is the Absolue Revitalizing & Brightening Soft Cream, which is a luxurious and hydrating face cream in a gold jar that is designed to target all visible signs of aging. The cream includes a mix of natural ingredients, such as Grand Rose extract, that help to improve the skin’s tightness, elasticity, and luminosity.
The brand’s Visionnaire line is also gaining in popularity among sophisticated Parisians, with the Visionnaire Advanced Skin Corrector Serum becoming one of its best-selling products.
Chanel
Chanel is a luxury French skincare brand that was created in 1909 by fashion designer Gabrielle “Coco” Chanel. The company’s philosophy involves creating elegant and sophisticated skincare products that enhance a woman’s natural beauty. The brand’s iconic logo, elegant packaging, and rich heritage have made it one of the most iconic and recognizable luxury brands in the world.
Chanel’s best-selling skincare products have lots of loyal fans. One of the brand’s most popular products is the Le Lift Rich Cream, which is a luxurious and effective anti-aging and anti-wrinkle cream that is formulated to firm the skin, increase elasticity, and boost radiance. The cream contains powerful organic ingredients, such as alfalfa and rye extracts, that help to improve the skin’s texture and tone.
Another popular range is the Hydra Beauty collection of hydration products. The Micro Serum is an intensely hydrating and refreshing serum designed to replenish and nourish the skin. The serum was formulated with high-end, natural ingredients, such as camellia and blue ginger extracts, that help to soothe and protect the skin. The Hydra Beauty Cream is also highly rated by American consumers for its deeply hydrating properties. These products are made in France.
The brand’s expensive Sublimage line is popular among those with dull skin. The Sublimage L’Essence Ultimate Revitalizing and Light-Activating Concentrate works to illuminate the skin, improve its texture, and treat signs of aging.
The Chanel ROUGE COCO BAUME Hydrating Conditioning Lip Balm is a best-seller among Americans, who love its advanced complex that leaves them with ultra-hydrated, soft lips, a slightly fuller appearance, and a glossy finish.
Dior
Dior is a luxury skincare brand that was established in 1946 by Christian Dior. The brand’s mission is focused on creating innovative and luxurious skincare products that enhance a woman’s natural beauty. Dior is renowned for using superior ingredients to other brands. The brand’s iconic logo, elegant packaging, and rich heritage have made it one of the most coveted and recognizable luxury brands in the world.
Dior’s best-selling skincare products are used by celebrities worldwide. One of the brand’s most popular products is the Capture Totale Le Serum, which is a powerful anti-aging serum that is designed to improve the skin’s texture, tone, and radiance. The serum has several natural ingredients, such as longoza extract, that help to firm and smooth the skin. It can also be purchased in a tinted foundation form with SPF 20.
Another popular product is the Hydra Life Fresh Hydration Sorbet Crème, which is a refreshing and hydrating moisturizer that was conceived to provide intense hydration and nourishment to the skin. The cream was made with natural ingredients, such as mallow and haberlea leaf extracts, that help to soothe your skin and offer lasting protection.
The brand’s Prestige line is also very upscale, with the La Micro-Huile de Rose Advanced Serum being one of its best-selling products.
Chantecaille
Chantecaille is a luxury skincare brand from France that was founded in 1997 by Sylvie Chantecaille. The company’s ethos is to create innovative and sustainable skincare products you can rely on. Chantecaille is renowned for its use of high-quality botanical ingredients and its commitment to ethical and environmentally friendly practices. The brand’s elegant and minimalist packaging, as well as its philanthropic efforts, have made it a favorite among discerning customers who value luxury and sustainability.
Chantecaille’s best-selling skincare products are well-known in France, but less so in America. One of the brand’s most popular products is the Jasmine and Lily Healing Mask, which is a luxurious and rejuvenating mask that was devised to heal and brighten the skin. The mask has coveted natural ingredients, such as Rosa Damascena flower water and Jasmine flower wax, that help to stimulate brightness and improve skin density.
Another prevalent product is the Rose de Mai Face Oil, which is a nourishing and hydrating oil that can deeply moisturize and revitalize the skin. The oil was conceived with several natural ingredients, such as pure rose oil and wild pansy extract, that helps to soothe and protect the skin.
The brand’s Retinol Intense+ line is also popular, with the Retinol Intense+ night treatment being one of its best-selling anti-aging products.
Biologique Recherche
Biologique Recherche is a luxury skincare brand that was established in 1978 by a biologist, a physiotherapist, and a doctor. The brand’s ideology is focused on a clinical and personalized approach to skincare, using the finest ingredients and advanced technologies. Biologique Recherche is renowned for its rigorous and holistic approach to skincare, with a focus on improving the skin’s overall health and appearance. The brand’s products are exclusively sold in select spas and beauty institutes around the world, adding to its exclusivity and luxury status.
Biologique Recherche’s best-selling skincare products are used by the Parisian and Swiss elite. They are the most sought-after and effective in the spa industry. One of the brand’s most popular products is the P50 Lotion, which is a potent and exfoliating toner that is designed to regulate the skin’s pH, exfoliate dead skin cells, and improve skin texture and tone. The lotion contains a blend of acids, such as salicylic acid and lactic acid, that help to purify and balance the skin.
Another well-loved product is the Creme Masque Vernix, which is a nourishing and protective cream that is designed to restore the skin’s protective barrier and enhance its natural glow. The cream harnesses the power of key natural ingredients, such as colostrum and hyaluronic acid, that help to hydrate and nourish the skin.
Darphin
Darphin is a luxury skincare brand that was launched in Paris in 1958 by Pierre Darphin, a renowned skincare specialist. The brand’s purpose is centered on the idea of “kinesthetic” skincare, which combines the use of advanced technologies with the power of touch to create a sensory and transformative skincare experience. Darphin is known for its dermatologist-approved product lines and it’s sold in pharmacies across France. The brand’s products are designed to address specific skin concerns and provide visible and long-lasting results, making it a favorite among customers who value luxury and efficacy when treating skin concerns.
Darphin’s best-selling skincare products are surprisingly accessible. One of the brand’s most popular products is the Intral Inner Youth Rescue Serum, which is a calming and soothing serum that is designed to reduce the appearance of redness, correct skin sensitivity, and encourage the skin’s inner youthness. The serum is made with mostly natural ingredients, such as chamomile and peony extract, that help to soothe and strengthen the skin’s natural defenses.
Another beloved Darphin product is the Hydraskin Light All-Day Skin Hydrating Cream Gel, which is a powerful yet lightweight hydrating moisturizer designed to provide intense moisture to the skin. The cream-gel has organic ingredients like salicornia herbacea and butterfly lavender extract present that can hydrate, plump, and nourish the skin.
Fans of face oil will appreciate the brand’s 8-Flower Nectar Face Oil which delivers a sensory experience each time you massage your face.
The brand’s Stimulskin Plus line is also popular with Parisians with mature skin as it offers powerful anti-aging solutions. The Stimulskin Plus Absolute Renewal Cream is a fantastic daily face cream if you have mature, wrinkled skin and are looking for an ultra-luxury product.
Officine Universelle Buly
Officine Universelle Buly is a luxury skincare brand that was founded in 1803 as a French pharmacy by Jean-Vincent Bully. The shop was originally known for its skincare, perfumes, candles, and natural oils, but it was later acquired by Moroccan entrepreneurs Ramdane Touhami and Victoire de Taillac who relaunched it in 2014. The brand is renowned for its commitment to tradition, quality, and natural ingredients. Officine Universelle Buly uses traditional techniques to create its skincare products, and each product is carefully handcrafted. The brand’s vintage aesthetic and use of high-quality ingredients have made it one of the most popular luxury skincare brands in Europe.
One of Officine Universelle Buly’s most popular products is the Pommade Virginale Face Cream, which is a gentle cleansing balm and moisturizer that is suitable for all skin types. The Pommade Virginale contains French natural ingredients, such as sweet almond oil and chamomile flower extract, which help to soothe and nourish the skin.
Orlane
Orlane is a luxury skincare brand that was founded in 1947 by Jean d’Albret, a French nobleman. The brand’s doctrine is to combine the latest dermatological research with the power of nature to create innovative and effective skincare products. Orlane is renowned for using excellent ingredients and advanced technologies. The brand’s products are designed to target specific skin concerns and provide visible and long-lasting results, making it a favorite among discerning customers who value both luxury and usefulness.
Orlane’s best-selling skincare products are popular among New Yorkers due to their efficacious reputation. One of the brand’s most beloved products is the B21 Extraordinaire Serum, which is a powerful and rejuvenating serum that is designed to reduce the signs of aging and improve skin texture and tone. The serum contains high-end, natural ingredients, such as hyaluronic acid and caffeine, that help to hydrate, firm, and energize the skin.
Another great product is the Intense Firming Cream, which is a rich and nourishing cream that is designed to improve skin elasticity and restore its youthful appearance. The cream is also made with luxurious ingredients, such as royal jelly and gold peptides, that help to moisturize, plump, and firm the skin.
Hermès
Hermès is a luxury fashion and leather goods brand that was founded in 1837 in Paris by Thierry Hermès. The brand is known for its old money, elegant and timeless designs, and exceptional craftsmanship. In 2020, Hermès launched its first skincare line, marking the brand’s entrance into the beauty industry. Hermès skincare products are designed to be both lavish and effective, incorporating high-quality ingredients and innovative technologies to provide visible results and enhance the skin’s natural beauty.
Hermès’s best-selling skincare products are part of its debut skincare line, which features a range of products designed to cleanse, nourish, and protect the skin. One of Hermès’ most talked-about products is the Plein Air Complexion Balm, which is a tinted facial moisturizer that is designed to even out the skin tone while protecting it from the sun with SPF 30. The balm leaves your skin with a radiant, translucent finish. It contains a blend of hyaluronic acid to retain hydration and primrose oil and Baikal skullcap to reinforce the skin barrier and protect against pollutants.
Another popular product is the Rouge Hermès Lip Care Balm, which is a luxurious and hydrating lip balm that is designed to plump and nourish the lips. The lip balm incorporates premium components like shea butter and rosehip oil, that help to hydrate, soften, and protect the lips.
The brand’s exotic perfumes are also popular, with the Élixir des Merveilles being one of its best-selling scents.
Now you know the best luxury French skincare brands!
