9 Things You Didn’t Know About This Cult French Brand

What’s the story behind Caudalie?

The Caudalie story started back in 1995 in Bordeaux, France, when founders Mathilde and Bertrand Thomas had a chance encounter with Dr Vercauteren at Mathilde’s family vineyard. Dr Vercauteren is the world’s leading expert on grape and grapevine polyphenols and revealed to them the powerful antioxidant powers of the leftovers in the winemaking process, which are 10,000 times more effective than vitamin E at fighting free radicals. Fast forward just over two decades and the Caudalie range is a global bestseller that prides itself on being not only effective, but completely natural.
 

What makes Caudalie different to other brands?

All of Caudalie’s key ingredients are patented and have undergone extensive research to ensure they really work. Moreover, Caudalie remains still a family-owned company and founder Mathilde prides herself on her involvement in the development of each product – she’ll never release something she doesn’t wholeheartedly believe in.
 

What ingredients does Caudalie champion?

Grapes are a huge part of the brand’s DNA – we use both the grape and the grapevine to develop our three main patented ingredients, which are found throughout Caudalie’s products. Both grapes and grapevines are rich in polyphenols, resveratrol, viniferine and various other ingredients – resveratrol naturally increases the firmness of the skin while viniferine, extracted from grapevine sap, is famous for its brightening properties. Historically, women picking grapes in the vineyard would rub sap on their face to maintain an even complexion despite working in the sun – this active ingredient is 62 times more effective than vitamin C at reducing dark spots.
 

What are the hero products?

The VinoPerfect Radiance Serum is the number one anti-dark spot product in French pharmacies – it works wonders to reduce sun-related pigmentation and acne scarring, whilst brightening dull complexions. The Beauty Elixir is also one to try – it’s become something of a cult product in recent years and many make-up artist’s secret backstage weapon for setting and refreshing make-up. Packed with organic mint balm, rose extract and rosemary, it’s like a spa in a bottle and is ideal for all skin types. If you’re looking to upgrade your skincare but unsure where to start, try the Make-Up Removing Cleansing Oil, a 100%-natural formula that’ll deeply cleanse and nourish, without stripping the skin.
 

Is it worth splurging on your skincare?

Not necessarily – expensive skincare isn't always better. It’s far more important that the skincare you’re using is right for your skin type and will tackle your specific concerns. Start with a small range of products with scientifically-proven ingredients and take the time to listen to what your skin is saying – if the latest skincare fad isn’t working for you, don’t stick with it. When trying new products, the rule is to layer – start with the lightest consistency and end with the thickest product.
 

What’s the biggest mistake you see women making with their skin?

Improper make-up removal, whether it’s with make-up wipes, shower gel or not at all. Investing in a good quality cleanser is paramount to ensure you’re removing daily grime and make-up. And time isn’t an excuse as there are plenty of cleansers that get to work in seconds. Try our Micellar Water – it’s quick, gentle and really effective. Also, make sure to use a formula without SLS (a foaming agent), which is found in so many cleansers and can be stripping on the skin. Caudalie’s Instant Foaming Cleanser is free from SLS as well as soap, which can also be harsh on skin.
 

One piece of advice you’d give to women in their 30s?

It sounds simple, but always, always take the time to remove your make-up. It’s easy to make excuses but leaving your make-up on will not only result in breakouts and dull skin, but can also cause premature ageing. A thorough cleanse is the best advice I’d give anyone.
 

Can your lifestyle take its toll on your skin?

Yes. By the time you reach 40, your skin has lost 50% of its natural hyaluronic acid – being exposed to smoking, alcohol and pollution as well as poor sleep, diet and stress can exacerbate this. If you burn the candle at both ends it could be worth trying Caudalie’s Vine[Activ] range – the 3-in-1 Moisturizer features an anti-pollution veil, while the Overnight Detox Oil will eliminate harmful toxins and renew skin cells while you sleep. You should also be aware of the impact pollution is having on your skin if you live in an urban environment – four out of five wrinkles are caused by external aggressors such as pollution.
 

What can British women learn from the French approach to beauty?

Skincare should always make you feel good as well as look good. The French attitude to beauty is based more on prevention, upkeep and ongoing investment, rather than a quick fix. From an early age, French women figure out what works for their skin and develop a daily routine – consistency with your skincare will pay off in the long run.
 

Top tips for...

Sensitive skin: Don’t be scared to try new things. Just because your skin is sensitive, doesn’t mean you need to miss out on powerful firming or lifting products. Stick to natural brands – they’ll surprise you with how gentle they can be. But be sure to patch test every product on your jawline to check they’re suitable.  

Dry skin: Add a hydrating serum to your skincare routine and use twice a day. Try to add extra layers of nourishment where possible, such as using a cleansing oil. When your skin is really suffering, add a couple of drops of an overnight oil to your moisturiser too.

Blemish-prone skin: Try a clay mask – they work wonders to draw out impurities and toxins while tightening the pores. Apply the Instant Detox Mask up to twice a week for clearer skin.
 
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