Everything about our masks!

The eye contour is the most fragile and sensitive area of ​​the face. Wrinkles, puffiness, dark circles… this area, where the skin is very thin, can show signs of aging very easily if it isn't cared for daily. And since the eyes are one of the first things people notice about someone, we're revealing our solutions for restoring a bright and revitalized look. Choose a gentle makeup remover for your eyes Choose a gentle makeup remover that respects the sensitivity of the eye area. For example, you can use an eye makeup remover containing natural active ingredients such as aloe vera, which has multiple moisturizing and soothing properties, or cornflower water, known for its decongestant and stimulating benefits. For users of waterproof or highly pigmented makeup, a two-phase formula is recommended in order to dissolve the eyeshadows easily and without rubbing. Sleep with a silk pillowcase Did you know? Silk is a remarkable material that has many benefits for your skin. By swapping your cotton pillowcases for silk ones, you'll reduce friction and creases from the fabric against your skin. As a result, you'll minimize the appearance of wrinkles and creases on your face, especially around the eyes, which are particularly prone to those "sleep wrinkles" that eventually become permanent. Gentle on the skin, silk is suitable for sensitive, dry or blemished skin. Another reason to choose a silk pillowcase for your eyes: Have you ever wondered why your facial skincare, especially your eye care, isn't working well enough? The answer might be your pillowcase. Cotton pillowcases tend to absorb more of your serums, creams, and night masks. By using a silk pillowcase at night, your eye care products will be more effective because they'll be absorbed less. Bonus: the pillowcase is also a great friend for keeping hair beautiful and silky! Use targeted care: our Les Poulettes Certified Organic Eye Patches Made in France As explained previously, the eye contour is a thin and delicate area of ​​your face that requires specific care. A simple facial moisturizer will tend to overload the skin due to its heavy texture. Also, keep in mind that some facial moisturizers may contain active ingredients that are too harsh for the eyes, such as essential oils. As a result, you risk irritating this delicate area and causing puffiness! So what treatment should you use to reduce fine lines and under-eye bags? Your skin needs a product with revitalizing and hydrating properties, all without being greasy. Good news! Our Les Poulettes “full contour” eye patches are certified organic and made in France and are infused with a formula rich in plant extracts! We chose vegetable glycerin for its humectant and hydrating power, which guarantees the maintenance of the skin's natural water content, and hyaluronic acid, a true hydration booster that helps smooth fine lines around the eyes. We added young barley shoot water with revitalizing properties. And finally , konjac root , which helps fight skin fatigue, and particularly dark circles. A true concentrate of natural active ingredients to reduce the appearance of crow's feet, dark circles, and puffiness. A refreshed and rejuvenated eye contour guaranteed in just 10 minutes! Our tips for a tenfold effect: Store the organic and Made in France eye patches in a refrigerator before use to get the full decongestant benefits. After removing the patches, feel free to massage the eye contour by making circular movements around the eye with the pad of your ring finger. Practice face yoga The face has over 50 muscles, 22 of which are around the eyes. Facial yoga is extremely beneficial when practiced regularly, as it helps tone these eye muscles. The result: a less tired appearance by reducing wrinkles and signs of fatigue. Here are 2 facial yoga exercises for the eye contour to perform several times a week for visible results. Exercise #1 Step 1: Place each index finger on your eyelids and inhale. Step 2: Exhale while trying to open your eyes. Repeat several times. Exercise #2 Step 1: Place each index finger at the outer corner of your eyes, stretch gently while inhaling Step 2: As you exhale, close your eyes for 3 seconds, then open them again.

Today, we've decided to give you some more details about our eye patches. We'll explain how to apply them correctly to your eyelids, around your eyes. And why trying them means you'll love them…

Are you interested in this blog? It seems you consider organic certification for cosmetic products very important to you. That's great, because we do too! So much so, in fact, that we've planned to divide this post into several parts to cover the topic properly. It is not always easy to understand the difference between conventional cosmetics, natural cosmetics and certified organic cosmetics. Indeed, through our interactions with the Poulettes community, we have observed this. Everyone's talking about Green Beauty. Natural ingredients are being promoted more than ever. Controversies surrounding preservatives are a well-known topic among the general public… And yet, organic products remain a relatively niche category in the world of health and beauty. To date, organic cosmetics still only represent 5% of total cosmetic sales. So you are part of an elite club of female consumers (still a minority, but demanding and committed). And we thank you for that! Some basic regulations: In Europe, cosmetic products must comply with the Regulation of the European Parliament and of the Council of 30 November 2009 (and its various amendments). Cosmetic regulations are indeed adapting to the evolution of our knowledge about health and to our ethical and environmental choices. The ban on animal testing in Europe, for example, is quite recent when you think about it: 2013. And the ban on certain parabens (such as isobutyl or phenylparaben) only dates back to 2014. Methylisothiazolinone (MIT), a preservative responsible for many cases of chronic allergic eczema, disappeared from the composition of leave-on products in 2017. As for D5 (also called Cyclopentasiloxane), it's a silicone that combines the status of an endocrine disruptor with the characteristic of being bioaccumulative (boo!). It is therefore non-biodegradable and damages the oceans. (Boo! Double boo!). It was banned in January of this year, 2020. The fish are thrilled, and so are we. It should be noted that Europe still has a list of 1300 prohibited ingredients. Whereas in the USA, there are only… 30. So we're not so badly off on this side of the Atlantic, all the same. That said, it's your body we're talking about. So you have the right to demand maximum safety from your products. The "no pain, no gain" mentality is completely outdated, take it from me. The precautionary principle of organic farming: never be too careful European law, however, still allows many ingredients deemed undesirable by various consumer organizations and associations. This is particularly true of many preservatives considered potential endocrine disruptors. This will undoubtedly change, but in the meantime, to avoid taking risks, it's a good idea to opt for organic products. Indeed, the organic labels that certify our products (Ecocert and Cosmos Organic) advocate the precautionary principle. They impose much stricter standards on certified organic brands, such as Les Poulettes Paris, than current regulations and therefore prohibit the following ingredients or ingredient families: This blacklist of certified green beauty products is not exhaustive but gives a good idea of ​​what organic cosmetics do not contain. For more information, see " Fact sheets on toxic molecules to avoid " on the website of Which to Choose But why do non-organic brands still use controversial ingredients? You might ask us: if these substances are potentially dangerous or polluting, why don't all brands require themselves to avoid them, regardless of the organic label? Very good question. This is due, among other things, to the difficulty of formulating an effective preservative system using only a limited range of approved organic preservatives. Furthermore, these raw materials are more expensive! For example, in conventional cosmetics, a good little dose of phenoxyethanol (easy to produce, cheap and radical against many bacteria) and the trick is -almost- done. The organic formulation prohibits the potentially irritating phenoxyethanol. A complex and precisely measured blend of 3-4 active ingredients (often salts of organic acids, sorbic, salicylic, or dehydroacetic acid, benzyl alcohol, etc.) will be required in the lab to achieve the same level of effectiveness. The use of mild preservatives, the risk of bacterial contamination, and the risk of rapid oxidation of the formula are out of the question. Note: Ethanol (the base alcohol, the same as in your favorite cocktails) is permitted in organic products. It's not dangerous, toxic, or polluting, but at Les Poulettes Paris, we consider it potentially drying for the skin, so we also prohibit it in the formulas of our certified organic and Made in France face masks . For an aperitif, however, we don't say no!

Argan oil is a highly effective natural ingredient in cosmetics. Used for millennia by Moroccan women in the creation of traditional beauty products, it was in the mid-1980s that international beauty brands began to take a closer look at its benefits. The argan tree requires neither fertilizer nor pesticides. It's no surprise, then, that with the rise of natural and organic skincare, argan oil has become an essential ingredient in the French cosmetics industry. France is, in fact, the leading importer of argan extracts, accounting for 78% of the total volume sold abroad! An ethical and socially responsible natural asset The Argan tree (Argania Spinosa, its Latin name) grows wild in southwestern Morocco. It is notably present in The Arganeraie Biosphere Reserve . This large area, which is now part of UNESCO's heritage, plays an irreplaceable role in combating soil degradation and the progressive desertification of southern Morocco. The Argan BIO subsidiary therefore actively contributes to supporting the preservation of this biodiversity. Choosing the Argan BIO label also means contributing to the economic well-being of local populations, and in particular women. Indeed, the majority of organic argan oil production is handled by women's cooperatives, allowing them to unite and share resources, costs, and income. This ensures better market access thanks to the added value of organic traceability, while preserving centuries-old artisanal know-how. Since female solidarity is an important value for Les Poulettes Paris, it is with great pride that we tell you about this natural ingredient, featured in our Coup d'Éclat cosmetic mask. The argan tree, a tree that requires neither fertilizer nor pesticide. The guarantee of beautiful skin, for a long time What makes argan oil special? It's rich in fatty acids and Vitamin E. Two essential molecules for maintaining healthy skin and protecting it against aging. Let's start with Fatty Acids. You also know them as Omega. They are lipids that are classified into two categories. First, there are the essential fatty acids Because they are not produced by the body and must therefore come from food (or your skincare routine). They are essential for proper cell development. This is particularly true of Omega-6 fatty acids, which make up almost 40% of the lipids in Argan oil. They act as a barrier for the epidermis and help maintain skin elasticity. Non-essential fatty acids , such as Omega-9, can be synthesized by the body. They are also found in the sebum naturally secreted by the skin. Argan oil also contains them, which explains its excellent affinity with the epidermis. Omega-9s are essential for skin hydration and suppleness. They make Argan extract an ideal active ingredient for skin lacking comfort and radiance. Let's finish on a high note with vitamin E. Also called Tocopherol (it's not very pretty, but oh well, that's how it is), it's a great antioxidant. And antioxidants mean the ability to fight against the nasty free radicals that insidiously attack the small cells of your skin. Better protected, ready to defend themselves against the aggressor, our cells remain in top condition for longer and help delay the signs of aging. Vitamin E is basically “the youth bonus of your Radiance Boosting Mask ”. Note: Don't hesitate to use pure organic argan oil on your hair. When they need to relax at home, the team's "Poulettes" apply it generously all over their hair and leave it on for a good hour under a towel (like an Instagram star's turban) before shampooing. It's a foolproof remedy against frizz!

Today, we've decided to launch a series of articles to introduce you to our favorite natural ingredients. To kick off this botanical beauty saga, here's Moringa! The seeds of a tree native to India. Dried Moringa pods and seeds (Moringa oleifera Lam.) Moringa extract comes from the seeds of a tree native to India, Moringa Olifeira, also known as the Miracle Tree or Tree of Life. It is, in a way, a "vegetable tree," extremely rich in vitamins and minerals. All parts of this plant, from the root to the flowers, have been used for millennia for their nutritional and medicinal properties. In recent years, it has appeared in contemporary cosmetics as a particularly interesting anti-pollution and purifying active ingredient. Exceptional nutrient richness and a super anti-pollution power. While dietary supplements are made from crushed and dried leaves, it is primarily the seeds that are of interest for the manufacture of skincare products. The oil is produced by cold-pressing the seeds to preserve the integrity of its properties. It is extremely rich in unsaturated fatty acids (particularly omega-9) as well as antioxidant vitamins C and E. Everything in Moringa is useful: the leaves are nutritious and the seeds provide extracts with purifying powers. But what really makes it unique is a protein contained in the seeds which has the particularity of binding to impurities, aggregating them and retaining them on the surface of the skin, thus preventing them from penetrating the epidermis and affecting the cells. The star ingredient of our Detox Mask - Les Poulettes Paris: We selected Moringa extract for the formula of Detox Mask Certified organic and made in France, Les Poulettes Paris, among others, offers a unique anti-pollution action. We therefore offer a formula that is purifying, revitalizing, and protective for skin that breathes. Its use is therefore highly recommended for all those who live in urban environments. Since, as city dwellers, we are regularly exposed to oxidative stress and polluting particles. We recommend using this mask in the morning at home to start your day off right. It will then act as an anti-pollution shield throughout the day. Moringa is combined with a film-forming active ingredient to create an invisible barrier against external aggressors. The formula also contains organic Aloe Vera Moisturizing and soothing, and vegetable glycerin to also strengthen the skin's barrier function and ensure suppleness and comfort, for a purified face! And yes, well-hydrated skin is naturally more resilient skin. Note: There is no risk of deforestation with Moringa, since this tropical tree grows easily and quickly in developing areas without access to modern irrigation methods (it can grow up to 3 meters per year!), and is naturally very resistant to insects (no need for pesticides).

In recent years, Aloe Vera has become a staple of natural cosmetics. The hygiene and beauty sector reportedly uses more than 30,000 tons of it annually. This is not surprising given the numerous health and wellness benefits of this plant. Primarily known for its soothing and healing properties, Aloe Vera has many other hidden talents within its leaves. We invite you to discover it together. Fleshy leaves: Aloe vera is a succulent plant capable of storing large quantities of water in its tissues. Completely covered by a protective rind, the secrets of the aloe leaf are revealed only when it is cut. Just beneath the rind lies the plant's sap. This yellow, very bitter liquid acts as the plant's vascular system. It allows for the transport of water, nutrients, and phyto-active components synthesized in its roots to the pulp. The pulp represents up to 80% of the plant's weight, and it is this part that will be of interest to us in cosmetics. A natural source of beauty and skin hydration: Aloe pulp contains approximately 200 components that are responsible for its multiple benefits. Its high concentration of saccharides such as mannose and galactose makes it, first and foremost, an excellent humectant. Humectant what? Don't panic, we'll explain! Humectant agents are made up of molecules small enough to penetrate deep into the surface cells of the epidermis and capable of retaining water there like mini-sponges. They therefore actively contribute to skin hydration. Aloe also promotes cell renewal. Thanks to its richness in amino acids (molecules capable of supporting the skin's regenerative functions to promote protein synthesis), it helps the natural production of collagen and elastin. The presence of fumaric acid in the pulp also gives Aloe antimicrobial and antifungal properties. This is undoubtedly why it has been used since antiquity for its healing properties, without the risk of superinfection. Add to that a whole host of "beautiful skin" vitamins (A, B, C) and you'll understand why, at Les Poulettes, we're rather fans of Aloe! And yes, organic aloe is one of our favorite active ingredients, found in the entire range of Les Poulettes Paris masks : eye patches, anti-fatigue mask, radiance-boosting mask, hydrating and refreshing mask, detox mask, and anti-aging mask. Which one is right for you?

We continue the botanical beauty saga with certified organic grapefruit essential oil, a natural extract with multiple benefits that we absolutely loved. Grapefruit or Pomelo, what's the difference? First of all, we need to clarify one point! The fruit we know as grapefruit (which you will find in the list of ingredients of our formula under the Latin name Citrus x Paradisi ) is actually a Pomelo and the essential oil is a Pomelo oil! The term "grapefruit," which we use every day, is a misnomer according to botanists and agronomists. For them, the grapefruit has nothing to do with the round, pink-fleshed fruit we eat in salads or juice. It's an enormous citrus fruit that can weigh up to 8 kg (its Latin name is Citrus maxima, which says it all), and is much more bitter and acidic than its cousin, the pomelo. The "grapefruit" is actually a Pomelo. Pomelo, or Citrus x Paradisi from its Latin name Let's get back to our Pomelo. This lovely fruit comes from a hybrid tree, a cross between a grapefruit tree and a sweet orange tree, and belongs to the Rutaceae family. And since the fruit grows in clusters, that's why in English it's called grapefruit. You'll really be able to impress your friends with all this knowledge, but in the meantime, let's get down to business: its essential oil and its benefits! Grapefruits grow in clusters on their tree. A gifted essential oil Grapefruit (or rather, pomelo) essential oil is obtained by steam distillation of the fruit's dried peel. Approximately 250 kg of peel are needed to produce 1 kg of essential oil… This oil is particularly valued for its stimulating and astringent properties. It is also beneficial for dull complexions and blemish-prone skin thanks to its purifying and decongesting properties. Used in body care products and oils, it is also an excellent draining agent to combat water retention and cellulite. Its fruity fragrance inspires vitality and good cheer, and proves to be an excellent stress reliever. Some also say it stimulates creativity. When used in a diffuser, it also purifies the air in the home. Pure bliss… The star ingredient in our anti-fatigue mask: We have therefore selected certified organic grapefruit essential oil in the Les Poulettes Paris anti-fatigue mask for its toning properties. The formula contains revitalizing rose water rich in vitamin C, as well as moisturizing agents, of course. Because tired skin is often synonymous with dehydrated skin! Treat yourself to this concentrated burst of energy and vitality as soon as you feel the first signs of fatigue, to rediscover a rested face and a fresh complexion. This mask will quickly become your go-to remedy for busy days and short nights. Note: We recommend that pregnant women not use the anti-fatigue mask during the first 3 months of pregnancy since our star ingredient is an essential oil, and that they opt for the other masks in the range in the meantime.

Certified organic cotton: why is it better for us and for our planet? For our food, organic makes sense: it guarantees healthier products grown with respect for the environment. The same goes for cosmetics, since we know that what we regularly put on our skin can be absorbed by the body. It's therefore best to avoid plant extracts grown with numerous pesticides and chemical fertilizers. We don't want those, neither on our plates nor in our jars of cream, thank you. Okay, so you understand the benefit of choosing organic ingredients for formulas that come into direct contact with your skin and are designed to penetrate the upper layers of the epidermis, but what about the cotton used as a base for our sheet masks? Why organic cotton there too? Is it really necessary since it's not actually an active ingredient? Yes, and we're going to explain this to you with a little lesson about cotton. Conventional cotton production, one of the most polluting crops! Conventional cotton fiber comes from crops of plants that are often genetically modified and grown using methods that are anything but ecological. For your information, cotton farming accounts for 25% of pesticide use worldwide, while it only covers 2.5% of the agricultural land on our planet. And yes, cotton, being the nicest thing ever, makes lots of insect friends and that's not to the farmers' liking. But it doesn't stop there; once harvested, the cotton flowers are purified and bleached with chlorine. This process frequently leads to the formation of dioxins, persistent organic pollutants that remain on the fibers after processing (in addition to chlorine residues). These dioxins are easily absorbed by the body and have proven harmful effects on health. Without going into detail, we will just say that these substances have been associated with different types of cancer and endocrine disruption. But we're going to stop telling you scary stories now, because at Les Poulettes we prefer stories with happy endings. And one of our favorites is the one about certified organic cotton! GOTS certified organic cotton, the kind that Les Poulettes Paris chooses for their skincare masks. GOTS-certified organic cotton, unlike that from conventional agriculture, comes from crops grown without GMOs or pesticides, which are more respectful of the soil and require less water. It also minimizes the risk of exposure to toxic substances for farmers. Yes, but what about the processing of the fibers then? No chlorine this time. It's prohibited for organic cotton. We use hydrogen peroxide or ozone for purification. It's clean and safe. And forget about chemical bleaching. If you've ever wondered why your beauty mask wasn't super white and sometimes even had small brown spots, now you have your answer. We prioritized health and the environment over impeccable whiteness. Let's leave that to the laundry detergents… All Les Poulettes Paris beauty masks are made from certified organic cotton. Note: You can also consider organic cotton for your hygiene and textile purchases. At Les Poulettes Paris, we really like the discreet and timeless chic of the ethical fashion brand EKYOG: www.ekyog.com , and we love the eco-friendly, fun and organic sanitary products from the new brand FLO (available at Monoprix and on www.hereweflo.fr ).

Today, we invite you to discover the main principles of organic certification. A logical next step, after having presented, Last week, the basics of cosmetic regulations and the controversial cosmetic ingredients that are permitted by law but prohibited by the organic labels and standards that apply to our masks.

You probably have a general idea of ​​what young barley shoots are. But if we talk about barley shoot hydrosol, things get more complicated. No panic, hydrosol is just the technical term used in cosmetic jargon to refer to a form of floral water or plant water.

My dream is for Les Poulettes Paris to become a significant and lasting organic brand. The brand is celebrating its 2nd anniversary. That's a good start, isn't it?