French do beauty best

L-R, Clarins Par Amour, Chanel Body Cream, L'Oreal Glam Shine Cream, Lancome Absolue Teint and YSL All Over Pressed Powder. Picture / Alicia Bennett

Makeup always sounds so much better when it goes by its French name of maquillage. Here are five reasons to be indebted to the nation where cleansing, toning and moisturising are almost as important as the three Rs 

Clarins Par Amour Eau de Parfum
$105 for 50ml

Clarins' much anticipated perfume Par Amour (for love) will soon be on the counters. This tribute to love has a floral woody fragrance that starts off with pink peppercorns and blackcurrants, then moves into ottoman rose and sandalwood, finishing with a woody note. Love and want.

From selected department stores and pharmacies from August 1.

L'Oreal Glam Red Glam Shine Cream
$24.95

L'Oreal is all about affordable French makeup. This lipstick manages to be a moisturising gloss as well. That's because of the cunning trick of making the waxes melt just below skin temperature, trans forming them into a glossy oil. What's more, it comes with moisture, full-on colour, a long-lasting finish and has a lip-plumping effect. What more do you need?

From selected pharmacies, department and variety stores.

Lancome Absolue Teint
$88 for 35ml

Always concerned with the comfort of others, this cream makeup revitalises mature skin with a wild yam and sea algae extract that provides long-lasting hydration and helps skin get back its youthful suppleness. Jolly good coverage too.

From selected department stores and pharmacies.

Yves Saint Laurent All Over Pressed Powder
$115 for 25g

YSL has reinvented bronzing powder with this show-stopping four-colour striped pressed powder for face and body. Such possibilities. Try the bronze and copper on the face where the sun colours, and the fuchsia on the upper cheekbones. Or sweep all four over the decolletage.

From selected department stores and pharmacies from July 25.

Chanel Coco Mademoiselle Fresh Body Cream
$148 for 150g

Chanel's interlocking Cs is one of France's most famous logos. The company has such pedigree and does everything so beautifully and this scented body cream is no exception - from the exquisite packaging to the gorgeous fragrance and luxurious moisturising properties. It is a delight to use.

From selected department stores and pharmacies.