The 5 best French beauty brands: From Avène and Vichy to Darphin

In Britain we are fortunate to be able to get our hands on Gallic lotions and potions without a trip across the Channel

Multi-active night, £44, clarins.co.uk ( )

When it comes to cosmetics our continental cousins appear to favour the au naturel approach.But skincare? That's a whole different kettle of poisson. It makes sense – all that smoking and scowling can't be good for the complexion. Some of the biggest beauty brands in the business are French – Clarins, for example – while others just have French-sounding names – Clinique, I'm looking at you.

In Britain we are fortunate to be able to get our hands on these Gallic lotions and potions without a trip across the Channel, because high street stores like Boots and Marks & Spencer have comprehensive ranges to should suit every budget. It is in the pharmacy where a lot of beauty rituals begin, and many brands have a clean and almost clinical aesthetic. Thermal water from various regional springs – each of which has its own benefits – is a popular ingredient, and many women regularly visit thermal spas for treatments.

Night balm

£26, Avene, escentual.com

A little of this creamy serum boosts your usual routine thanks to the thermal water that enriches much of the brand's offering.

Neovadiol compensating complex

£29.75, Vichy, boots.com

This range is designed specifically to counteract the effects of the menopause on mature skin, leaving it fresh and radiant even after prolonged use.

Instant detox mask

£22, uk.caudalie.com

A gentle acid exfoliant to refine skin texture. Use it before bed and the lavender will soothe and your usual night- time products will really sink in.

Multi-active night

£44, clarins.co.uk

Nobody gets enough sleep so instead of worrying about the effects, tackle the first sign of fine lines with this revitalising night cream.

Beauty revealing eye and lip contour cream

£50, darphin.co.uk

The lips inevitably thin as we age and the skin can become feathered with wrinkles, so targeting this area (and quitting smoking) is a smart idea.