Did you know that more than half of France's surface area is dedicated to agricultural exploitation?
Some of our regions abound with gems, where we cultivate the riches of our terroirs with specific know-how .
So why search on the other side of the world for the essentials close to home?
The global pandemic has brought awareness to the way we consume.
At Mes Cosmétiques Français, we have chosen to work with local producers, to promote short circuits and reduce the environmental impact, both in terms of transport and in terms of energy expenditure in the production process.
Products whose composition we know, designed by passionate entrepreneurs who create local beauty that each of you can enjoy.
We are proud to promote our regions and introduce you to brands that embody Made In France.
In this article we will zoom in on the riches of seven of our regions. You might be surprised!
- Brittany
- Corsica
- Great East
- Normandy
- New Aquitaine
- Occitanie
- Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur
1. BRITTANY
SEAWEED
More than 1,000 species flourish on the Breton coasts, the richest place in the world in terms of biodiversity! Brands from all four corners of the globe source their products there. Seaweed has many unsuspected virtues.
During strong tides, certain algae spend most of their time out of water and must therefore fight against drought or the aggression of the sun's rays. Which makes it an essential ally for protecting skin cells, nourishing them and increasing collagen production. They are rich in polysaccharides with moisturizing properties .
They also provide “osmolytes” (free sugars, amino acids, glycols, etc.) which penetrate into the epidermal cells, attract water and retain it, like so many tiny sponges. We then speak of “humectant” moisturizers .
In addition, many algae contain antioxidant (anti-aging) compounds, skin stimulants, anti-wrinkle compounds or compounds that help maintain skin elasticity.
There are 3 major species of algae used in cosmetics, all moisturizing but with different characteristics:
- Red algae has remineralizing properties
- Protective, soothing and emollient brown algae
- Green algae are rich in magnesium.
Passion Marine is a brand of USPALLA Laboratory, manufacturer of ecological cosmetic products based on marine active ingredients. They contain a percentage of organic products higher than the minimum imposed by the ECOCERT/COSMOS charters, recycled and/or recyclable packaging as well as sourcing of “responsible” active ingredients favoring MADE IN BRETAGNE.
Our selection for the skin
Supreme regeneration anti-aging cream - Passion Marine
This cream is a synergy of complexes with algae and plant extracts. Its active ingredient Algo White offers a depigmenting and lightening action by controlling the synthesis of melanin and activating its elimination process. Cellular renewal is stimulated and the skin's natural exfoliation is improved.
HEMP
With its 17,000 hectares of cultivation in Brittany, France is the leading European producer of hemp.
Hemp and cannabis are from the same family but their differences lie in their morphology, in their composition, and therefore in their use.
Hemp is grown to obtain raw materials such as fiber, cellulose, or seeds and their oil.
Cannabis is cultivated for its psychoactive effect; it contains THC, and it is this substance that is sought after and used for its “recreational” effect.
You may have already heard of Biotania? A brand that relies on nature to take care of your skin.
Cécile, the co-founder, initially created a natural solution based on hemp oil to considerably improve the condition of the skin of her companion affected by psoriasis...and that's how the adventure was born.
Hemp seed oil is used in nourishing care, being rich in essential fatty acids (Omega 3, 6 and 9), it is recommended for dry skin, or to relieve the skin of skin diseases ( psoriasis, eczema . .). Its composition, similar to the skin's sebum, makes it very interesting for combination skin.
Our selection for the skin
Hydrapaise Face Serum Oil - Hemp, camelina and borage - Biotanie - 15 ml
With a dry feel and natural scent, Hydrapaise® serum oil regenerates and soothes. Ideally designed for demanding skin, its formula based on organic hemp seed oil, camelina seed oil and borage oil penetrates quickly without leaving a greasy residue. Suitable for all skin types, even the most demanding!
2. CORSICA
THE IMMORTAL
Perhaps you know Italian helichrysum? Also known by another name: Immortelle.
An emblematic plant of Corsica, the Italian Helichrysum is present all around the Mediterranean where it benefits from dry and sunny climates .
In the form of essential oil , or hydrosol, this plant is a very precious active ingredient to be used in dilution in oils or creams for:
- fight against wrinkles (present and future)
- help healing after an injury, a small wound or a tattoo
- reduce a hematoma, a bruise, a bump
- helps regulate acne or combination problem skin,
- fight against redness, rosacea
- strengthen the blood capillaries of the legs and improve blood circulation
We also find immortelle as a plant macerated in oil to make balms for joint or muscular comfort , or healing.
Our selection for the skin
Organic restorative Italian helychryse oil - All skin - Cévennes plants - 50 mL
This oil based on maceration of helichrysum and essential oils relieves hematomas, joint and muscular discomfort.
3. BIG EAST
THE CHERRY
Cherry cultivation has been an important part of Lorraine's agricultural heritage for centuries. It is known for producing high quality cherries, particularly the Bigarreau variety.
This antioxidant-rich fruit has many benefits for the skin, particularly thanks to its kernels. For some, this represents waste, while others know how to reap all the benefits!
The level of linoleic acid or Omega 6 present in cherry stone oil plays an important role in the formation of collagen.
Restorative, it restructures the epidermis and revives your complexion. Your lips will appreciate its effects and its smell is delicate.
The Oden brand offers in its wide range a Good glow vitamin serum created for dull skin.
Our selection for the skin
Good-looking Vitamin Serum - Dull skin - Oden - 15 mL
This oily serum is composed of 3 exceptional vegetable oils, virgin and from French agriculture: French sea buckthorn oil, precious and extremely rare, it gives an immediate boost of radiance and awakens dull and gray skin , French evening primrose oil which regenerates and finally French cherry oil which deeply nourishes and plumps the skin.
4. NORMANDY
LINEN
60% of global flax production comes from the Normandy and Hauts de France regions.
Growing this plant requires very little fertilizer and does not need irrigation.
Delicate and refined, the flax flower is ephemeral since it only lives a few hours before withering. Rich in omega 3 and 6 , the seeds of its fruits, with film-forming properties, are used to develop moisturizing and nourishing products .
Flax flower extract stimulates hyaluronic acid, gives a plumping effect , as the molecules retain water in the layers of the skin.
It is suitable for all skin types : dry, combination, oily and even the most sensitive skin.
Stéphanie Gastaldin comes from a family of flax growers in Normandy for 3 generations. It was quite natural that she launched the Linaé adventure in 2019.
Our selection for the skin
Sublimating exfoliating foam cream - All skin types - Organic Linseed Oil - Linaé - 50 mL
This exfoliating treatment with a foam texture combines the benefits of a gentle peeling mask and a manual scrub, for an instant enhancing effect. It accelerates cell renewal, revives microcirculation, refines skin texture, blurs irregularities and brightens dull and tired complexions.
APPLE
The Middle Ages saw apple cultivation flourish in Normandy. This fruit seems to appreciate the oceanic climate of the region, a sun which warms without burning, a rain which waters without drowning and a limestone terroir which pleases the apple trees.
From now on, apple is a delicious addition to our cosmetics!
The apple hydrates the skin, restores radiance to the complexion and protects against UV rays thanks to its numerous anti-oxidants, vitamins and nutrients...Each apple has its particularities.
According to its color:
- Green apples are very rich in fiber and low in natural carbohydrates and fats. For the skin, it is an excellent wrinkle fighter.
- The red apple, very rich in vitamin C and K, is very low in calories. The best known is the Gala apple, juicy and crunchy. Its anthocyanins make the skin red, making it your favorite blush.
- The yellow apple, called Golden, is the most consumed in France. Very soft and sweet, it stimulates the immune system, is rich in vitamin C and antioxidants.
Its polyphenols, in addition to being responsible for the color of the fruit, provide protection against free radicals and aging. Apple seeds are very nourishing and play an important role in hydrating your skin.
Our selection for the skin
Alcohol-free, this micellar water cleanses, removes makeup and soothes the face and eyes. We love its sweet apple scent! Aloe vera, witch hazel and neem will cleanse impurities and makeup, while calming your skin. The super apple/pomegranate duo will bring radiance and freshness to your skin.
5. NEW AQUITAINE
BIRCH SAP
Birches grow a lot in Scandinavian forests and now almost everywhere in France and particularly in Gironde. In winter, they stop producing sap so as not to freeze. In spring, it springs back and then has detoxifying and regenerating properties.
Very rich in minerals, trace elements and vitamins, birch sap is presented as a detoxifying active ingredient for the body, in the form of a drink, it will stimulate the emunctory organs (liver, kidneys, intestines, lungs and skin) .
In cosmetics, it restores energy to cells, it tones and hydrates your skin.
Since 2014, BELLE OEMINE BIO has offered gentle, refined, and very, very concentrated treatments for real effectiveness. Among its criteria:
- Very organic : From 50 to 99% organic ingredients on the TOTAL of the product
- Rich : high content of vegetable oils, plants, hydrosols
- Reliable: formulated under the supervision of a dermatologist
- Cruelty-free : not tested on animals (in accordance with European legislation for all cosmetics, even non-organic)
- Vegan or at least vegetarian: without components of animal origin – excluding beeswax in certain creams
- Biodegradable : recyclable packaging – limited excess packaging
- French : made in the South West
Our selection for the skin
Serum to tone the neck, décolleté and breasts. Smoothes and revitalizes these areas of thin skin.
- For an immediate boost.
- For long-term regenerating action.
BEET AND SPINACH
Very present in the Charentes, spinach has an antioxidant action, in particular with the lutein which composes it, and detoxifying thanks to vitamins A. The spinach extract is then frozen to isolate the interesting molecules then heated to make it an active ingredient. cosmetic.
The beets are reduced to powder. Beet betaine is a moisturizing agent that helps keep water inside skin cells. In addition to hydrating, its vitamin C lightens the complexion to ensure a healthy glow. It protects the skin from external aggressions and helps maintain elastic and firm skin, thus delaying the appearance of the first wrinkles. Rich in potassium and vitamin B9, beets can also be used to treat certain scalp problems such as dandruff or dry scalp.
The two ingredients are integrated into the creams of the Cultiv brand, born in French agricultural cooperatives, in the very heart of the beet and wheat fields.
Our selection for the skin
Hydration booster serum - Beetroot, Spinach, Chicory - All skin types - Cultiv - 30 mL
Organic moisturizing serum with a gel-cream texture suitable for all skin types, with a light fruity scent. It is applied in the evening for intense hydration, but is also suitable for day care thanks to its soft and comfortable finish. Your skin is replenished and radiant.
THE LANDES PINE
Located in the heart of the largest pine forest in Europe, the Océopin brand is the only French producer of maritime pine seed oil . Organic pine cones are harvested by hand from October to May, then opened by heating them in a wood-fired oven. The seeds are then cold pressed to extract the oil. The brand harvests a ton per year.
The epidermis is protected from external aggressions, thanks to the Vitamin E it contains. Free radicals and oxidative stress are kept away, thanks to its polyphenol content. Controlled water loss, thanks to its exceptional richness in essential fatty acids. The skin is nourished, softened and repaired.
The particularity of its high level of pinoleic and sciadonic fatty acids has a redensifying effect on the epidermis: Anti-aging effect guaranteed!
Our selection for the skin
Maritime pine seed powder - Océopin - 100 gr
A 100% organic plant-based exfoliant, maritime pine seed powder softens and unifies the epidermis, restoring suppleness and vitality . Applied with gentle friction, it promotes circulation, smoothes and regenerates the skin. Its fine texture does not irritate and is suitable for all skin types, even the most sensitive.
HAZELNUT
Most hazelnut producers are located in Aquitaine, and particularly in Lot-et-Garonne. Nearly half of French production is today produced in this department alone.
Hazelnut is used in cosmetology to deeply nourish the skin while regulating sebum production and strengthening the hydrolipidic film. The ideal ally for combination to oily skin.
Its advantages :
- Sebo-regulating , it rebalances combination to oily skin and nourishes areas that need to be nourished.
- Softening and restorative thanks to vitamin E, a natural antioxidant, it limits the appearance of scars linked to acne and maintains the suppleness of the skin.
- Emollient , it maintains natural hydration thanks to its high concentration of oleic acid which strengthens the hydrolipidic film and limits skin dehydration.
Our selection for the skin
French Hazelnut Oil - oily skin with spots - Oden - 30 mL
Hazelnut Botanical Oil is rich in oleic acid and vitamin E, which makes it a perfect oil for combination to oily, blemished or acne-prone skin.
Rebalancing, it nourishes, repairs the skin in depth and regulates sebum production.
It has excellent penetration power and does not leave a greasy finish. Its delicious smell of roasted hazelnuts offers you a real moment of sweetness.
THE GASCOGNE PLUM
Cultivated in New Aquitaine, the plum is a typical fruit of this region!
Plum is one of the nuts that is often found in natural cosmetics and more precisely in the form of vegetable oil for the face.
The kernels, once collected, are cold pressed to produce vegetable oil
Thanks to its high level of oleic acid (75%), Aquitaine plum oil is naturally:
- Lipid-replenishing , it deeply nourishes the skin and restores suppleness and elasticity to skin lacking nutrition.
- Protective and antioxidant , it protects the skin from the harmful effects of pollution thanks to its high concentration of vitamin E.
- Emollient , it limits water loss and preserves natural hydration thanks to essential fatty acids which strengthen the hydrolipidic film
Bonus : Its captivating almond smell is unanimous: it appeals to both men and women!
Oden concocts botanical treatments for your skin from plants grown in France, natural and without preservatives. Everything we love about Mes Cosmétiques Français !
Our selection for the skin
French Plum Oil - dry skin - Oden - 30 mL
Very rich in vitamin E and oleic acid, French Plum Oil is naturally lipid-replenishing. Its soft texture and delicious smell of bitter almond make it an irresistible nourishing treatment.
THE CAMELIN
Farmers who produce camelina are quite rare, even if there are more and more of them in France. Camelina is a cruciferous plant. It produces very small yellow flowers. Its seed is harvested and cold pressed mechanically to obtain camelina oil.
Once transformed, this plant has many facets and is at the same time balancing, softening and restorative . It maintains hydration and elasticity of the skin and gives it a feeling of comfort.
Les Happycuriennes offers a range of organic & vegan cosmetics, composed of multi-use, cold-formulated treatments made from plants from the South-West.
Our selection for the skin
La Joyeuse is an organic everyday moisturizing cream. This organic and vegan treatment is complete in a single application: it hydrates, balances, unifies, protects and has an antioxidant action. It is suitable for all skin types: from normal to combination and is also suitable for oily and acne-prone skin. La Joyeuse offers a fluid, light, refreshing texture and a fresh, fruity floral scent (orange blossom, jasmine, bergamot).
6. OCCITANIA
VINE
Occitanie is the leading wine-growing region in France.
Discovered for cosmetic purposes around thirty years ago, resveratrol, present in the skin of grapes, has become the essential active ingredient in the development of cosmetic products thanks to its antioxidant properties for the skin.
- It promotes cell regeneration;
- Has beneficial effects on cardiovascular diseases and cancers;
- Intensifies the firmness and youthfulness of the epidermis.
There are in particular polyphenols , contained in grape seeds, red wine is the one which contains the most, known for their actions against skin aging.
- they capture free radicals, responsible for the aging of skin cells.
- they improve skin microcirculation;
- they are excellent slimming agents;
- they have soothing properties.
Grape seed oil, the queen of antioxidant oils, has healing properties and helps improve skin texture and traces of imperfections. Rich in omega 6 and vitamin E, it intensely nourishes dry skin.
The Miyé brand , “the good friend” in Provençal, has developed a range adapted to female metabolism to help our body naturally regain its state of balance and support women in their phases of “hormonal storms”.
Our selection for the skin
Regenerating facial oil - Grapeseed, flax and oats - Miyé - 30 ml
This oil with an ultra-light “water-like” texture is a synergy of low-comedogenic oils to suit all skin types, ideal for skin lacking radiance, prone to dry or weakened skin. Also suitable for pregnant women.
CALENDULA
This yellow or orange flower blooms in warm and sunny areas such as in Occitania, and particularly in the Cévennes.
It is a good alternative to aloe vera. It has many antioxidants. It soothes and repairs the skin , making it a perfect ingredient in after-sun care.
It has soothing, healing, restorative and regenerating properties. It is perfect for damaged skin and to help skin ailments.
Our selection for the skin
Organic Calendula oil without essential oil - Sensitive, weakened skin - Cévennes plants - 50 mL
The organic care oil “Little sores with Calendula” is a real solar maceration of calendula which acts on irritations, cracks, small wounds, scars. It is softening, regenerating and healing. Without essential oils, it is suitable for all skin types .
CHESTNUT
The “Châtaigne des Cévennes” has been officially recognized as a Protected Designation of Origin (PDO) since January 2023.
This recognition highlights the know-how developed over decades by castanéiculturists.
A source of mineral salts and trace elements , chestnuts are involved in cellular metabolism.
Everything is good in chestnuts!
The chestnut naturally protects itself from external attacks thanks to its protective coverings. It therefore has all the powers to protect our skin. Its bug and shell are surprisingly rich in polyphenols, powerful natural antioxidants, which makes it an excellent anti-aging agent.
Chestnuts contain tannins, antioxidants which also serve as preservatives and which aim to protect against bacteria. Ideal as an anti-acne product .
“BELESA, made in Cévennes” understands this , which is why the brand integrates this emblematic fruit of the Cévennes into several of its products.
Our selection for the skin
" Frescuro " Clear Skin Chestnut Water - Belesa - 200 mL
This astringent and balancing lotion is a real concentrate of active ingredients for clear skin!
HONEY
Occitanie is the largest producer of honey in France.
There are many types of honey, since the taste, texture and color of the latter vary depending on the type of flowers collected and the environment of the bees.
Honey contains antioxidants, which help fight against the formation of free radicals responsible for aging. The amount of antioxidants varies depending on the botanical species from which it comes. Dark colored honeys have the most. The antibacterial properties of honey are also interesting for contributing to digestive and intestinal well-being.
As a cosmetic active ingredient, honey has emollient, moisturizing, softening, healing and antibacterial properties which make it an ideal natural ingredient for taking care of the skin, but also the hair. It is therefore recommended to help fight against the appearance of imperfections in dry skin, as well as to help prevent signs of aging in mature skin.
Propolia has been the flagship brand of Apimab Laboratoires for over 30 years. It is the story of a beekeeper, of a simple man who loves his bees, who firmly believes in the therapeutic virtues of hive products. Today, the laboratory works with more than three hundred beekeepers in France and offers a wide range of well-being products based on honey.
Organic Propolis Calendula Shea Day Cream - Dry skin - Propolia - 50 mL
An essential treatment for the whole day, this cream will provide you with daily protection and will constitute a very pleasant makeup base.
7. PROVENCE-ALPES-COTE D’AZUR
ALMOND
Mainly imported from Australia or the United States, almond cultivation has been revived thanks to renewed interest in recent years. The Vaucluse almond is enjoyed in nougat, frangipane but also in cosmetics .
Extracted from the kernel of the almond tree, sweet almond oil is the favorite oil for dry, atopic-prone skin . Thanks to its richness in essential fatty acids, it soothes and relieves tight and irritated skin.
This oil with multiple benefits can be used on the face, to nourish and soothe redness, on the body to protect, soften the skin and prevent stretch marks, and on the hair as a nourishing treatment for split ends, brittle or curly hair.
More than 30 years ago, Florame moved to Saint Rémy de Provence, in the Alpilles natural park. It will be a pioneer brand in the development of organic cosmetics ranges. Today the company offers a wide range of hygiene and beauty products made with natural processes and raw materials, selected and officially certified (Ecocert and Cosmos).
Our selection for the skin
Soothing eye contour treatment - With sweet almond - Sensitive skin - Tolerance - Florame - 15 ml
The eye contour treatment with a soft and silky texture helps to soothe your sensitive skin by reducing visible signs of fatigue. Enriched with organic sweet almond and Inca Inci vegetable oils, nourishing and soothing, this certified organic treatment promotes the reduction of dark circles and bags.
THE FIG
75% of French fig production is grown in Provence-Alpes-Côte-d'Azur.
Rich in flavonoids and carotenoids, very powerful antioxidants, its anti-aging properties are well established.
Very effective, it is still little used in cosmetics because it remains expensive. Rare and precious, fig oil is obtained from the seeds contained in fig trees.
Thanks to its high concentration of essential fatty acids and vitamin E, it effectively fights the signs of aging and limits the formation of free radicals.
It helps to reinforce hydration by regulating water loss and restoring the skin's natural water flow, promoting skin elasticity.
Light and fluid, it penetrates quickly and helps to regenerate the skin in depth while effectively protecting it from external aggressions. Its regenerating benefits will also be appreciated to limit the appearance of scars and reduce stretch marks.
Our selection for the skin
Natural fig Marseille soap - All skin types - Tadé - 100g
This authentic olive oil soap, natural and biodegradable , without coloring, is the result of traditional saponification, in a cauldron and batchwise, which preserves the essential fatty acid content. Biodegradable , it contains no syndet, no sulfate, no coloring. Its very scent pleasant evokes that of the Provençal summer.
Authentic vegetable soap, extra pure . Natural and biodegradable, it takes care of your skin and the environment, and deliciously perfumes your body and hands. Small, very handy and practical format for travel, with its box.
LAVENDER
Lavender from Provence is one of the emblems of the South of France. Mainly grown in PACA, it is picked when the flower begins to fade, between the end of June and the end of August depending on the weather.
There are several kinds of lavender:
- Fine or officinal lavender (also called true lavender): This “wild” lavender grows at altitude, renowned for its cleansing but also anti-inflammatory properties. Its fragrance is the finest, it is used a lot in cosmetics. We also use fine lavender hydrosol as a scented mist for the pillow or the body.
- Spike lavender : This plant is a lavender that grows at lower altitudes, well known to the Provençals because its essential oil was traditionally used as a remedy for small snake bites, insect bites or even in cases of sunburn. The soothing, purifying and healing action is due to the presence of camphor in the composition of its essential oil.
- All kinds of lavender that grow in Provence have been created by Man: this plant is the lavender of the postcard lavender fields. It has a better yield of essential oil because it contains more natural essence in it. Lavandin essential oil is widely used in aromatherapy: for a relaxing massage, to soothe muscle or joint tension, to soothe an injection, a pimple, etc.
In cosmetics, lavender is available in different forms: essential oil, hydrosol, tonic lotion, creams, balms, soaps, etc.
Savonnerie Les Essentiels manufactures 100% organic cosmetics and cold process soaps in their laboratory in Saint-Cannat (13). This family business offers everyday products: solid deodorants, solid toothpaste, soaps, balms, scrubs, formulated without water, benefiting from their natural active ingredients: vitamins, fatty acids, omegas.
Our selection for the skin
Face Night Balm Lavender, Rose, Neroli - Mature skin - Les Essentiels - 60 mL
This balm has generative, restructuring and anti-oxidant properties . It helps in the fight against skin aging thanks to its soothing, curative and calming properties. Lavender combined with Damascus rose and neroli makes its unique and exquisite scent perfect for reducing stress before bed. This facial balm is a real dermo-care product .
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