Today's post is a first on Beaumiroir, but it's something I had been thinking about for a while: since I talk to you about French beauty all the time, I figured it would be interesting to hear someone else's point of view on the subject, someone who wasn't born as lucky as I am to be French (Joking. Or not. Dry French humor.). So let me introduce Zara Lewis, who's going to share her favorite beauty tips she learned from her French friend!

Zara Lewis is a designer and a regular contributor to highstylife.com , devoted to implementing healthy life habits in every aspect of life of her family and friends. She seeks for beauty in everything that surrounds her. Romantic soul and tech geek in one body. She enjoys hiking, cycling, yoga and cooking.

" French girls manage to leave an impression of nonchalant beauty. No one can really explain it: it’s something deeply rooted in their habits and lifestyle within the French culture. Just think about the breathtaking style icons, such as Brigitte Bardot, Carine Roitfeld, Anna Karina, and of course – Coco Chanel. All of these ladies have their own beauty standards and confidence plays a huge role in how they are perceived by others. Still, it isn’t without the effort and there’s always room for learning new beauty lessons. Here are the best ones my Parisian friend was kind enough to share.


Enjoying wine is healthy

When two French girls meet and discuss beauty habits, don’t be surprised to hear that wine is on the list! Health and beauty benefits of drinking small amounts of red wine on a daily basis are widely acknowledged. It’s full of antioxidants (especially resveratrol) that ensure your skin is protected from free radicals and has a healthy glow. Combine your own menu: for example, Mediterranean food goes really well with red wine and is proven to help with deferring the aging process. Needless to say, one glass of red wine per day is the optimal choice. Anything over that can cause a counter effect.


Be disciplined when it comes to your skin routine

You should give your skin what it needs every day: it’s not called pampering, but discipline. Cleansing, exfoliating and moisturizing are the three simple and necessary steps every French girl follows in her routine. The choice of the products is up to the person, but here’s a little tip for you: treat your skin with nourishing face oils for that healthy glowing look. Removing your makeup before going to bed is mandatory: instead of using harsh wipes, try micellar water or some other gentle makeup removal products. Also, try applying a face mask: it is a great option for additional skin care, since the nourishing ingredients penetrate your skin deeply, leaving it wonderfully hydrated. Make sure your water intake is optimal so that you hydrate your skin from the inside, too.


Less is more, but lipstick is a must

People find French beauty really inspiring since ladies are elegant, chic and really moderate in their style and makeup. Very often, French girls enjoy their days makeup-free or they opt for the natural look, and they still look absolutely amazing! Just remember the unconventional beauty of Audrey Tautou in “Amelie Poulain”. It’s because of the well-cared skin. For a bolder look, French girls choose the timeless red lipstick. Psychology says it gives women more confidence (as if French women need any more)!  When using a red lipstick, tone the rest of your makeup down: apply a simple lightweight foundation, curl your lashes, add a coat of mascara – and you’ll be left with a magnifique look that is nice and clean, but also a head-turner!