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Little known fact: Only 11 ingredients are banned from cosmetics in the United States. The European Union, on the other hand, has restricted or prohibited more than 1,600—which makes for products that are generally gentler and more skin-friendly.
For months, my TikTok feed has been flooded with content about French pharmacy skincare—and as someone with sensitive skin, it's gotten my attention. Hopping on a flight to Paris isn’t exactly in my budget, so I've settled for testing out classic French brands like Caudalie and La Roche-Posay at home. Skip to the good part: My skin has thrived under their minimal yet effective formulas. So, when I attended QVC’s Master Beauty Class and learned that Parisian skincare brand Gatineau is making its U.S. debut exclusively at QVC, I took note (literally).
Founded in 1932, Gatineau has built a legacy on science-backed, botanical-infused formulations, particularly in the anti-aging space. My skincare routine isn’t quite focused on fine lines yet, but CEO Andrew Bagley assured me that Gatineau’s deeply nourishing ingredients benefit all skin types and ages. Plus, Bagley hinted that products tailored to younger skin—that are more preventative in nature—may be on the horizon (shh).
My own love affair with French skincare aside, why does the arrival of Gatineau matter—and what makes French products so effective? I spoke with board-certified dermatologist Hadley King, MD, FAAD, for all the details.
What sets French skincare apart?
Like many French beauty brands, Gatineau blends natural botanicals with advanced dermatological science. “There seems to be a trend right now in skincare of combining science-backed results with ‘natural’ ingredients, in the U.S. as well as in other countries,” Dr. King says. “But historically, I’d say that French brands are more known for this.”
She also says that French beauty often takes a less-is-more approach—one that aligns with many dermatologists' philosophies. “Dermatologists tend to recommend a more streamlined approach to skincare regimens, with an emphasis on cleansing, moisturizing, and sun protection, with a few focused actives like retinoids, antioxidants, and periodic exfoliation."
How Gatineau’s skincare ingredients work
Gatineau’s products contain a mix of natural extracts, antioxidants, and smoothing ingredients, all of which work to support the skin barrier and improve texture. “Their formulations tend to be rich in emollients,” Dr. King says, “which help with skin barrier function, membrane fluidity, and cell signaling leading to overall improvement in skin texture and appearance.”
Since learning about Gatineau's ingredients, I've been using the Defi Lift 3D Firming Cream as my nighttime moisturizer. It's formulated with Filmexel, which Dr. King describes as a biopolymer that can help create a lifting effect while temporarily softening fine lines and wrinkles. Not only does it feel luxurious on the skin, but I’ve genuinely noticed a firmer, more hydrated complexion by morning.
My ideal skincare routine these days is one that's low-effort, gentle, and focused on strengthening my skin barrier. Gatineau delivers in spades. If yours is more about finding simple (and science-backed) anti-aging solutions—or just about maintaining your glow? The brand has you covered, too.
Shop Gatineau Skincare at QVC
Defi Lift 3D Firming Cream — $129
Collagene Expert Cleanser & Hydra Essence — $75
Age Benefit Night Renewal Elixir — $109
Collagene Expert Plumping Revival Mask — $55
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