It's the unloved part of our routines. The one we almost always neglect. The one we skip, thinking, "Yes, it's nice. But really, what does it really do for me?" And in the race for cosmetic performance, inevitably, this kind of question doesn't get asked.
First, let's go over the basics. What is a lotion? It's a water-based cosmetic formula that's applied by misting or patting, between the cleansing and serum phases. Its main ingredient is water—sometimes replaced by a blend of floral waters or hydrosols—combined with water-soluble active ingredients, such as glycerin or plant extracts.
In the past, most lotions were called "toners," meaning they contained alcohol. They were supposed to tighten enlarged pores. Since ethyl alcohol is not very good for our skin barrier, it is now absent from most contemporary formulas (not all 😉).
The role of these facial lotions actually takes on a different dimension. They refresh the skin, perfect makeup removal, prepare the absorption of moisturizers, and set makeup. And, above all, rebalance the pH of the skin's surface after cleansing. This last point is more important than you think: your skin is covered in an acid mantle that can easily be unbalanced by cleansing and soaping, which impacts your surface flora. And an unbalanced microbiota = all kinds of skin discomfort and inconveniences...
Some of us see lotions primarily as a pleasure. Yes, it's true that misting your skin is very pleasant, both in terms of how it feels (a cool, refreshing effect is great in summer) and in terms of how it smells (especially if you've opted for a lotion made with floral waters).
This sensoriality is a real plus in your routine, but it would be a shame to limit your lotion to this aspect alone. It can provide you with real skincare benefits that integrate perfectly into your entire routine, optimizing the penetration and effectiveness of subsequent formulas. If you have dehydrated skin, for example, lotion is an integral part of the Japanese layering protocol—which consists of superimposing layers of moisturizing cosmetics, from the lightest formula to the richest, in order to limit transepidermal water loss. Some can also offer you real relief if you suffer from redness or discomfort.
Formulated with cider vinegar, this essence re-acidifies the skin's surface and preserves its hydration for more plumpness.
Ideal for: all skin types, even sensitive and reactive.
The +: layer in one, two or three layers to optimize the level of plump!
The first floral thermal water! Its unique blend of Swiss Alpine thermal water and hydrosols brings freshness and comfort.
Ideal for: the whole family, including babies (spray on the seat).
The +: its minimalist formula, alcohol-free and fragrance-free.
Perfect for testing Japanese layering, this intensely hydrating lotion leaves a feeling of suppleness and elasticity.
Ideal for: dehydrated skin prone to fine lines and wrinkles.
The +: its unique regenerating cocktail based on beech buds and birch sap.
An extra-fresh exotic blend of aloe vera, floral waters, and Hawaiian sea salt with balancing and soothing effects.
Ideal for: sensitive skin that tends to redness.
The +: its piece of genuine rose quartz which infuses each bottle with its vibrations.
No perfume, no alcohol, no lactic acid, no glycolic acid: just very gentle active ingredients that combine hydration and exfoliation.
Ideal for: dull complexions and toxin-prone skin, even sensitive.
The +: it’s one of the rare exfoliating lotions that you can use every day!
As with all skincare products, you can also choose the lotion of your dreams based on your skin type: rather dry (lack of sebum) or rather oily (excess sebum).
Dry skin will appreciate slightly denser lotions, enriched with glycerin, urea, hyaluronic acid, or even oils—a bit like very fine emulsions. On the other hand, oily skin should really take a closer look at the composition of the lotion that catches its eye.
It's not uncommon for purifying lotions, even natural ones, to incorporate alcohol to "dry out" imperfections. This is the best way to achieve a rebound effect, that is, a defensive reflex of the skin that pushes it to produce more sebum.
Alcohol at the very end of a recipe isn't necessarily problematic; but if it's among the first three ingredients, it's best to avoid it.
Forget purifying lotions that strip: gentle but effective, it prevents the appearance of imperfections without drying out.
Ideal for: supporting skin that regularly develops blackheads and shine.
The +: its 100% natural and certified organic formula.
One of the most luxurious lotions in our catalog! A smoothing, radiance-boosting lotion enriched with pearl powder and rose oil.
Ideal for: reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
The +: its delicately gelled texture, halfway between lotion and serum.
Damask rose and orange blossom hydrosols come together in a revitalizing harmony with captivating floral notes.
Ideal for: preventing discomfort and lack of bounce, but also setting makeup.
The +: its 100% natural formula derived from French expertise.
A lotion or a mist isn't just water: it's also active ingredients! And then, even water has a role to play, and even a leading role: it's an excipient, meaning it's what transports the active ingredients to where they need to go on your skin.
So yes, the active ingredients in your lotion won't sink in as deeply as they would in a serum, cream, or oil—because some of them will remain blocked on the surface by your skin barrier, which is hydrophobic. But the fact that they're confined to the upper layers of the epidermis doesn't make them any less valuable, because that's where humectants (for example), such as hyaluronic acid, can provide moisture and a plump appearance to your skin. This is also true for other categories of ingredients, such as AHAs, which act primarily on the surface.
A sophisticated cocktail of botanical active ingredients and hyaluronic acid, designed to soothe and regenerate in just a few ultra-sensory spritzes.
Ideal for: aging, drier and more sensitive skin.
The +: it is not formulated with water, but with aloe vera for optimal thirst-quenching power.
15% AHA (lactic acid + glycolic acid) to break down the layer of dead cells that dulls your complexion and boost hydration.
Ideal for: coarse-grained skin that wants to regain “baby skin” softness.
The +: its prickly pear extract is designed to limit feelings of irritation.
The secret to limiting the damage caused by free radicals while remaining lightweight: antioxidant coenzyme Q10, ready to spray
Ideal for: skin overexposed to pollution and oxidative stress.
The +: it also contains aloe vera, hyaluronic acid and complementary plant extracts.
What makes it special: its concentration of inulin, a prebiotic that nourishes the “good” bacteria in the skin microbiota.
Ideal for: stressed skin with a flat appearance.
The +: its soothing scent of rose and orange blossom, without added perfume.