Anyone who knows (or cares) anything about beauty will have a certain respect for French women, French products and that distinctly Gallic way of always looking polished.
And while I love a 10-step Korean regimen as much as the next person, there’s something super satisfying about having a curated French edit of cleanser, serum, moisturiser and SPF that speaks to my love of simplicity in all things — whether beauty or fashion.
Which is why I couldn’t wait to try out the six-in-one cult French moisturiser, Embryolisse’s Lait-Creme Concentre Multi-Purpose Moisturiser, $42.
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Dubbed the “ultimate solution to dry skin”, the $42 buy is so much more than a moisturiser.
The six-in-one formula can be used as a moisturiser, mask, cleanser, makeup primer and more.
It has such a huge following that one tube of the $42 product sells every eight seconds around the world.
So how did I get on and will I be re-purchasing the item?
What is the Lait-Creme Concentre?
First up, it’s important to know what the Lait-Creme Concentre ($42) is.
The hydrating formula is essentially a moisturiser, but it can also be used as a mask, cleanser, makeup primer, after-shave balm and after-sun soother.
Since launching a few years ago, Lait-Creme Concentre has gained a devoted following of celebrities such as US actress Sydney Sweeney and fashion models Karlie Kloss and Elle Macpherson.
With three key natural active ingredients of shea butter, soy proteins and aloe vera, Embryolisse’s Lait-Creme Concentre deeply nourishes, soothes and protects all skin types for the perfect skin prep in a single step.
It’s billed for dry skin, but it also promises to work on your complexion all year round.
It’s also supposed to be fantastic for sensitive skin, comprising essential fatty acids, vitamins and beeswax as well as the soy protein, shea butter and aloe vera.
How did I find it?
I started testing the Lait-Creme Concentre at the beginning of July, and with a long-haul flight to Europe on the cards as well as multiple changes in temperature, I was keen to put the moisturiser through its proverbial paces.
It did not disappoint.
Despite the fact that the moisturiser contains some hard-hitting hydrating ingredients, it also feels light and non-greasy on the face.
I swiftly found that the Lait-Creme Concentre acts as the perfect primer for sitting underneath makeup.
Not only this, but it also stays put on my face all day — whether I’m flying, commuting, sitting in front of a desk, or out and about in the sunshine with my toddler.
Oftentimes with intense moisturisers, I can break out.
But with this particular product, I found it nourishing but lightweight — the perfect product to have in your beauty bag whether it’s summer or winter.
I also loved using it on dry spots on my hands, elbows and knees while I was away — and because it’s not too expensive, I wasn’t worried about being precious and using too much of it.
What do the reviews say?
It’s not just me who is obsessed with Lait-Creme Concentre.
Along with the sales statistics of one selling every eight seconds worldwide, there are thousands of glowing reviews.
It has also been described as a “24-hour miracle cream”.
“This is cult for a reason,” one reviewer wrote.
“So beautifully hydrating but never causes breakouts like many nourishing moisturisers can. I even use this on my young daughter’s skin if she is particularly dry. Love it and will never go back!”
Another added: “This deserves its reputation. Really lovely. Creamy but not thick. Blends well. Highly recommended.”
While a third said: “This is the bomb! Have been using this product for about a year now and I can’t rave enough about how great my skin is looking.
“I have very sensitive skin that reacts to so many products, however no such problems with Embryolisse. I encourage anyone looking for a gentle but effective moisturiser to give Embryolisse moisturiser a chance.”
Others have described the moisturiser as an “absolute game changer” and “phenomenal”.
For more information and to shop the Embryolisse moisturiser, head here now.
How to look after your skin in winter
Dr Yalda Jamali shared her top tips for looking after your skin in winter with Best Picks.
Think about texture: Dr Yalda recommends substituting “lightweight lotions with richer, more nourishing creams that include ingredients such as hyaluronic acid, glycerine and ceramides which are all heroes for attracting and retaining moisture in the skin”.
Proceed with caution: She said if your “skin is feeling particularly red and aggressive, avoid any harsh cleansers, acids or exfoliants, opting instead for a fragrance-free or oil-based cleanser. Dead skin build up can be remedied infrequently (ideally only one time per week). A great choice is to use an overnight mask with a gentle peeling effect to deliver an immediate radiance boost to the skin”.
Protect your skin barrier: ”During winter, our natural skin barrier or protection can become compromised, meaning we are more prone to dehydration, irritation and inflammation. Winter is the season to up the skincare ante by adding products to cushion the skin barrier,” Dr Yalda said. “Look for soothing and nourishing cream with ingredients such as aloe vera and shea butter to cocoon, hydrate and repair skin. Peptides are also a great addition to your routine for skin regeneration and repair.”
Don’t forget your lips: Dr Yalda said lips are “one of the most exposed areas of your body and they don’t have the same amount of oil glands so aren’t as naturally nourished as the rest of your skin”. When your lips feel dry, she explained that you tend to lick them, which makes things worse. Seal lips with a thick balm to lock in moisture and sooth chapping.
Layer up: Winter is the time for adding layers into your routine. You may want to enhance your routine with a facial mist, serum, oil, primer with benefits or mask. As a rule, apply layers from lightest to heaviest, Dr Yalda explained. She loves the Hydra Serum by Embryolisse.
Invigorate dull looking skin: “Our skin is prone to appearing dull and lacking radiance during winter,” Dr Yalda said. Introduce vitamin C into your routine, an ingredient used to brighten the skin, fight pigmentation (which is often exacerbated through summer) and promote collagen production. Add in a gentle exfoliation with PHAs for extra brightening.
Add oil: Winter is the ideal season to introduce an oil. Switching temperatures constantly (central heating, cold air, hot showers) disrupts the skin’s moisture balance, meaning skin can become flakier and drier. Oils help to soothe the skin, lock in hydration and boost the skin barrier to prevent future moisture loss. Either mix into moisturiser (morning and night) or layer in for an indulgent winter skin ritual. Don’t forget to take the application down to your neck and décolletage. She loves the Embryolisse oil.
SPF on repeat: An SPF is your No.1 anti-ageing ally and should be applied all year round. Winter sunshine can feel less intense, lulling us into a false sense of security and UVA rays (responsible for premature skin ageing) remain strong all year round. Slather on sunscreen throughout winter and don’t forget neck and hands.
