It’s what inside that really counts. That maybe cliche, but it’s true. The amount of times I have met a kind person and thought wow, their energy is beautiful, just based on their demeanor. Kindness is a beautiful trait. And adding a little of Aquaphor to your routine is great too!
What does Beauty mean to you?
On Skincare
I keep my skincare routine really simple these days. In my early 20s, I loved experimenting and buying all kinds of products, but in my 30s, I’ve streamlined everything and stick to what truly works. For me, it’s about investing in treatments like Hydrafacials, co2 laser, and microneedling for skin upkeep, paired with simple, effective skincare products. There’s no need to overbuy.
In the morning I start by splashing my face with water, then use the TirTir Milk Serum Toner, Caudalie Vinoperfect Serum, Embryolisse Lait-Crème Concentré, and finish with La Roche-Posay Anthelios Sunscreen.
In the evening I use tretinoin (.05%) every night except on weekends, giving my skin time to absorb more hydration. Since Monastery products aren’t available in Paris (which I’m so sad about), I’ve transitioned from their Sage Cleansing Oil to Medik8 Balance Cleansing Oil. If I’ve worn makeup that day, I double cleanse with Neutrogena Grapefruit Face Wash. After cleansing, I make sure my skin is completely dry before applying tretinoin, then follow up with moisturizer.
On weekends, I focus on extra hydration by layering Ialuset Crème, my regular moisturizer, and sealing it all in with a bit of Aquaphor.
In Michelle's File
‘I’ve streamlined everything and stick to what truly works.’
‘I don’t like to cover my face with makeup. I love Clè de Peau. It goes on so nicely.’
‘Adding a little of Aquaphor to your routine is great too!’
‘ A game-changer for my hair.’
‘Every time I put it on, I feel like I’m transported straight to the Amazon rainforest.’
On Haircare
Lately, I’ve been loving Ceremonia’s products. Their scalp oil has been a game-changer for my hair, along with the aloe vera mist oil spray. The water in Paris can be so harsh, and sometimes my hair feels less soft than usual, but these have made such a difference.
I’m also obsessed with Garnier products here in France—they’re so much better than the ones in the U.S.! The Hydration Hair Food is incredible, and they have a hair gloss you use in the shower that leaves my hair looking so healthy and shiny. I’m hooked.
On Make-up
I don’t wear much makeup skin health is my top priority but a good lipstick is always a go-to for me. I love Violette FR’s Bêtise; the pigment feels so natural on me. No matter what, it makes me look awake, even on days when I don’t feel like I do. Haha
On Health and Wellness
Working out and spending time in the sauna are essential parts of my wellness routine—I love a good sweat. Saunas help me reset and reconnect with myself after a hectic week. Honestly, I could spend an entire day there.
Your Beauty Secret...
All you really need is a good lip color, it makes such a difference, and you don’t need much else. Oh, and saunas! They’re amazing for centering yourself. I like to think of them as a little program reboot.
On Fragrance
Costa Brazil’s, hands down, is the only scent I wear. It just makes sense to me. Every time I put it on, I feel like I’m transported straight to the Amazon rainforest.
Michelle's Directory
I get hydrafacials at innerskin here in Paris. So far, I haven’t tried anything else here but dying to go to Dr. Antoni Calmon’s practice here.
‘No matter what, it makes me look awake, even on days when I don’t feel like I do.’