Paris, a city where beauty is not just a trend but a way of life, has long been celebrated for its unwavering commitment to skincare. As a hub of sophistication and style, Parisian beauty rituals and the lure of French pharmacy skincare have captivated the world, inspiring countless individuals to embrace a skincare regime that’s as timeless as it is effective.
Amidst the cobbled streets lies a secret: my dear Parisian friend Mia Lacoste, art gallerist of the legendary Galerie Jaques Lecoste, whose passion for skincare transcends borders — and the U.S. Sephora skincare she travels for. With each transatlantic journey, Lacoste embarks on a pilgrimage of sorts, seeking out the latest and most coveted products from American Sephora — an experience that has become an integral part of her travels. Among the myriad of offerings, she has found seven Sephora staples that have become her trusted companions, regardless of the continent she roams.
As she navigates the aisles of Sephora, Lacoste’s discerning eye is drawn to products that marry efficacy with elegance. Without further ado, here are her prized seven skincare essentials from the aisles of U.S. Sephora, as shared via her most recent Sephora receipt.
This innovative face mask combines advanced skincare technology with soothing ingredients like allantoin. Its cooling effect helps reduce inflammation and redness, making it a go-to solution for stressed-out skin.
How to use: Single-use, two-step ‘rubber’ sheet mask; apply and leave on for 30-40 minutes
Who it’s best for: All skin types, including sensitive
Primary ingredients: A complex with allantoin, which visibly calms sensitive skin, heals, and imparts soothing moisture
Known for her commitment to skincare, Lacoste raves about this hydrating face mask. Infused with hyaluronic acid and seaweed extract, it replenishes moisture levels and revitalizes the skin, leaving it plump and dewy.
How to use: Single-use sheet mask; apply and leave on for 15-20 minutes
Who it’s best for: All skin types, including sensitive
Primary ingredients: Hydrating complex with glycerin, which imparts soothing moisture to skin and keeps it there
Sun protection is non-negotiable in any skincare routine, and Lacoste swears by this invisible sunscreen. Its lightweight, oil-free formula glides effortlessly onto the skin, providing broad-spectrum protection without leaving a greasy residue — a must-have for Parisian summers.
How to use: Apply at least 15 minutes before sun exposure; reapply every two hours for optimal sun protection
Who it’s best for: Normal, dry, combination, and oily skin
Primary ingredients: Meadowfoam seed, which helps increase hydration levels, resulting in a more even skin texture; red algae, an antioxidant that helps protect against free radicals and blue light emissions
Hydration is key, especially in a city where the weather can be harsh on the skin. This water cream moisturizer is a cult favorite among Parisians for its lightweight yet deeply hydrating formula, leaving the skin supple and radiant.
How to use: Layer on this dermatologist-tested cream as a final step in your skincare regimen
Who it’s best for: Normal, dry, combination, and oil skin
Primary ingredients: Hyaluronic acid, which imparts hydration in a form already produced by the skin; PENTAVITIN, a patented solution that supports the skin in holding onto moisture
Ceramides are essential for maintaining a healthy skin barrier, and this serum delivers them in abundance. Formulated with nourishing avocado and encapsulated retinol, it strengthens the skin’s natural defenses while promoting a smooth, even complexion — a staple in Lacoste’s nightly skincare routine.
How to use: Apply this skin-barrier-strengthening serum after cleansing and toning skin and before applying a hydrator
Who it’s best for: Normal, dry, combination, and oil skin
Primary ingredients: Ceramide 5, which is a blend of 5 skin-identical ceramides that support the skin barrier and help visibly reduce redness and dryness; a combination of Avocado butter and its extracts for soothing and nourishing the skin; allantoin for soothing, an ingredient found naturally occurring in the body and in nature
Parisian beauty is all about effortless chic, and this multi-purpose balm embodies that ethos perfectly. Whether used to hydrate chapped lips or nourish dry cuticles, it’s a no-fuss formula and subtle sheen make it a handbag essential for Lacoste and many other Parisians.
How to use: Apply moisturizing lip balm as needed; can also be used on cuticles
Who it’s best for: All skin types, including sensitive (stick to the unscented version)
Primary ingredients: Synthetic Beeswax, which is a natural emollient that acts as a barrier for skin moisture barrier; castor seed oil, a thick emollient with water-binding properties that lock moisture into the skin
Last but not least, this luxurious face cream is a true game-changer for sensitive and reactive skin types. Infused with a potent blend of lipids and peptides, it restores the skin’s moisture barrier and helps combat signs of aging, earning it a permanent spot on Lacoste’s vanity.
How to use: Layer on this deeply hydrating cream as a final step in your skincare regimen
Who it’s best for: Normal, dry, and oily skin
Primary ingredients: Hydrating triple-lipid complex, a skin-similar lipid filler that helps restore ceramide and fatty acid levels in the skin; amino acids to support the skin barrier and minimize redness and sensitivity; seaweed hyaluronate blend, or a small particle form of hyaluronic acid that imparts deep hydration for plump, dewy, and glass-like skin
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