The essence of a French beauty look can be captured in three words: subtle, flawless, and timeless. It’s an ethereal kind of makeup that lets the skin breathe, enhances the eyes with a simple yet defined stroke, and adds a touch of elegant color to the lips.

Following the “less is more” rule might seem easy, but the real secret lies in choosing the right products. Here, we share a curated list of French beauty brands that specialize in enhancing natural features and celebrating the effortless elegance that defines Parisian women.

Chanel

A brand with a rich legacy in cosmetics, Chanel is a go-to for building your perfect French makeup look. Known for refined textures, long-lasting formulas, and luminous finishes, it’s ideal for a polished yet natural glow.

Try the Les Beiges Healthy Glow Natural Eyeshadow Palette—a collection of warm neutral tones perfect for adding understated depth—or explore the Ultra Le Teint Fluide collection, which blends concealer, foundation, and powderfor a matte yet delicate finish.

Nuxe

If you love skincare that blends seamlessly with makeup, Nuxe is a must. Famous for its light textures, dry oils, and radiant skin effect, this brand bridges the gap between care and glow.

Key products include the Huile Prodigieuse—a cult-favorite dry oil for face and body—and a selection of lightly scented sprays and glow-boosting creams that refresh and enhance your natural luminosity.

Rouje

Founded by Jeanne Damas, Rouje is rooted in minimalist makeup, vegan formulas, and that unmistakable je ne sais quoi.

We recommend:

Le Mascara, a defining mascara that builds moderate volume without clumps for a soft, refined gaze

Les Filles en Rouje Palette Lèvres, a lip palette with soft tones you can blend with your fingertips

Le Baume B.B., a tinted lip balm with hydrating, glossy, natural finish

Clarins

Known for both skincare and makeup, Clarins champions healthy skin through breathable formulas that illuminate instead of mask.

For that signature Parisian glow, try:

Or choose from Skin Illusion, Full Coverage, and Tinted Moisturizer depending on your desired finish—from hydrating sheer to full glam

Skin Illusion Foundation, a lightweight formula that evens tone without heavy coverage

Guerlain

A classic French maison with a storied history in high-end fragrance and makeup, Guerlain is all about luxurious formulations and radiant finishes.

For the French beauty look, try:

• Terracotta Bronzing Powder for a soft, sun-kissed glow
• Abeille Royale Youth Serum, an instant radiance booster that revitalizes the skin and adds subtle luminosity

Which of these products will be part of your French beauty ritual?