Ageless Beauty the French Way: Secrets from Three Generations of French Beauty Editors

by Clémence von Mueffling

"A magical guide.” ―Aerin Lauder, style and image director for the Estée Lauder Companies

From three generations of French beauty experts, Ageless Beauty the French Way is the ultimate book of tips, products, practices and French beauty secrets in ten categories such as Hair, Skin, Makeup, Sleep, and Perfume.

While many women are passionate about the best skin care lines, hair treatments, and beauty practices, Clémence von Mueffling has that passion in her DNA. Both her mother and grandmother were beauty editors for French Vogue, and Clémence proudly continues their legacy in Ageless Beauty the French Way, a luxurious, entertaining, unparalleled guide to every French beauty secret for women from all walks of life. Learn the most effective ways to let your natural beauty shine through; that double-cleansing your face is the only way to go; that there is more to choosing the perfect perfume than you ever imagined; and that a simple, nightly facial massage is the ultimate secret to an ageless, glamorous, youthful face.

Weaving wisdom from all three women with insiders tips from top beauty experts, Clémence shares both timeless and age-specific information in three categories―Jeunesse (15-35), Plénitude (35-55), and Maturité (55+)―creating a wonderful guide that any woman can cherish throughout her life, and pass down to her daughter through the years.

Genres: Nonfiction, Self Help, Health, France, Fashion

256 pages, Hardcover

Published May 8, 2018

About the author

A true beauty and cosmetics professional, Clémence von Mueffling earned her stripes working for iconic brands such as Clarins, Puig, and Dior before turning to beauty journalism at Casas & Gente magazine. Her transition felt very natural as writing is something of a family affair: both Mueffling’s mother and grandmother were beauty editors at the prestigious French Vogue.

In 2014 Clémence launched the online magazine www.beautyandwellbeing.com
Now, her lifetime of wisdom has culminated in her new book, Ageless Beauty the French Way. Weaving wisdom from three generations of beauty editors with insiders’ tips from top beauty experts Ageless Beauty is a luxurious entertaining, unparalleled guide to every French beauty secret for all women.

Reviews

[Suzanne · Rating 4 out of 5]

Some books about beauty are really only treatises about the continual pursuit of youth, or the folly associated with the pretense of youth. This book makes it clear from the outset that ‘beauty’ is about being one’s best self, whatever that entails for you. And then spends chapters explaining how to attain one’s best self through lifestyle, body/skin care and yes, even modest application of make-up. But the cosmetics discussion is the least of the book and in contrast to similarly titled books, there aren’t pages of directions about how to apply products to cover up lines and wrinkles. The book is most like spending time with a really wise friend filled with good information. Some you may have heard before and some needs repeating. Most you will find helpful, if not immediately, then soon. I know I did. The info is divided into three broad categories of age or time of life, so you can read up and become the wise woman among your friends and family after reading this book. I received my copy from the publisher through NetGalley and am very appreciative.

[Beatrice Mabrey-Robeson · Rating 3 out of 5]

This book offered some great beauty tips and many enchanting anecdotes on growing up in a luxurious Parisian household. Its fairly prescriptive view on femininity was, however, a little grating.

[Dee/ bookworm · Rating 5 out of 5]

#AgelessBeautyTheFrenchWay #NetGalley

publisher synopsis: "A magical guide.” ―Aerin Lauder, style and image director for the Estée Lauder Companies

From three generations of French beauty experts, Ageless Beauty the French Way is the ultimate book of tips, products, practices and French beauty secrets in ten categories such as Hair, Skin, Makeup, Sleep, and Perfume.

While many women are passionate about the best skin care lines, hair treatments, and beauty practices, Clémence von Mueffling has that passion in her DNA. Both her mother and grandmother were beauty editors for French Vogue, and Clémence proudly continues their legacy in Ageless Beauty the French Way, a luxurious, entertaining, unparalleled guide to every French beauty secret for women from all walks of life. Learn the most effective ways to let your natural beauty shine through; that double-cleansing your face is the only way to go; that there is more to choosing the perfect perfume than you ever imagined; and that a simple, nightly facial massage is the ultimate secret to an ageless, glamorous, youthful face.

Weaving wisdom from all three women with insiders tips from top beauty experts, Clémence shares both timeless and age-specific information in three categories―Jeunesse (15-35), Plénitude (35-55), and Maturité (55+)―creating a wonderful guide that any woman can cherish throughout her life, and pass down to her daughter through the years.


A wonderful guide from three generations of influential women in the beauty industry! An amazing guide to beauty and self. This book is full of useful information as well as very personable. You feel like you are speaking with the author, hearing her story, in person.

I received an advance reader copy in exchange for a fair review.

[Robin · Rating 2 out of 5]

A friend recommended this book for elders like us, however it didn’t quite ring my bell. Most of the beauty tips seem very basic, like articles in Seventeen Magazine from long ago. Mostly written by the youngest of 3 generations of French beauty experts, the emphasis seems to be on the youngest generation, with the exception of recommending products. Most of these products are expensive French creams, cleansers, lotions, etc., and I am not convinced that they are better than cheaper, more readily available products. There is no scientific evidence whatsoever cited; the book is purely anecdotal.

Some of the advice is questionable, such as the suggestion that older women can get rid of upper arm flab by doing triceps exercises with a trainer. Just not true for most of us—though possibly it works for former French models. The advice to be your natural self seems contradicted by such anecdotes as the author’s first waxing salon session at age 13. The “Four Pillars of French Wellness” chapter provides some valuable but very basic tips for eating, sleeping, exercising, and posture, but seems oddly misplaced near the end of the book, following all tips and products for changing the external appearance.

Ageless Beauty the French Way might help women who haven’t learned anything about skin and hair care. It could be useful if you’re looking for product recommendations. Do keep in mind though that advice from beauty experts isn’t the same as advice from dermatologists.

[Cozy Reviews · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book can appeal to women of all ages . It is a sensible reference guide to taking care of our skin, make up use and making the most of ourselves through good health care. it is written by three women who have been in the beauty industry for years . I think this would be a great gift for young women to learn how to better care for their skin. This is not a usual American book about "looking younger" as the media here pressures women to only focus on. This is a sensible guide to washing your face correctly (twice!) , using toners , moisturizers and helping yourself age by improving your self care to be your best self. Many of the suggestions are what European women have been doing for years and easy to work into our daily routine. One great tip is a face massage which really improves your elasticity and skin tone. I highly recommend this book. Cross posted on Good reads and Amazon. Thank you for the ARC which did not influence my review. I will be buying a hard copy to keep for future reference.

[Kate · Rating 5 out of 5]

An excellent read!

I thoroughly enjoyed this, I am a sucker for anything about 'French Style' but this is unique as its French elegance at any age, whilst it is predominantly written by Clemence ( a Parisian living in New York) both her Mother and Grandmother also contribute which gives this a richness that is not often found in fashion and beauty books. I especially loved her Grandmother's memoirs on being a model and her recollections of how beauty used to be, which was wonderful as it combines my love of beauty with my love of history.

[Stephenie · Rating 2 out of 5]

I didn't love this one. I am a Francophile and a beauty product junkie, so I assumed this book would be right up my ally. However, most of the book is full of information about the author's life and the lives of her mother and grandmother that frankly just didn't interest me. Then when finally getting to advice about skincare, etc. it was all information that I already knew or at least knew some version of. Maybe that's just me since I have read other beauty secret books in the past. I would recommend others before recommending this one. It was just...okay.

[Sylvia Mcgrath · Rating 5 out of 5]

A great book for all ages, written by three generations of a family who were prominent over the years in the French and New York beauty/fashion industry. I found the book to be a very interesting read with some great beauty and health tips for all. They cover the industry of fashion, their experiences and the changes over the years, suggestions on changing routines and styles as one gets older,

[Valerie Brett · Rating 3 out of 5]

This had specific tips and product recommendations, which was helpful. However, it wasn't particularly well-written or well-organized, and the two older women's contributions had a lot of name-dropping that was tedious. The version of femininity presented by this book is VERY specific; there is one right way to be feminine, according to this book's philosophy, despite the fact that they also claim that being yourself makes you most beautiful.

[Charity · Rating 3 out of 5]

Received it as a Christmas gift. Skim-read it. I admire their dedication to their beauty, but there's no way I'm going to spend hours a day doing all of this. ;)

[Rhonda Lomazow · Rating 4 out of 5]

French woman always seem to be stylish well groomed a special aura.This lovely book in a way a memoir of these three women generations in the beauty business. French women from early years are taught how to maintain their beauty this is a guide from youth& beyond.I enjoyed reading about their grooming habits products the whole wonderful lifestyle.Interesting that French men are also very involved with grooming, #netgalley #St.Martinsboojs.

[Ghadah K · Rating 3 out of 5]

"Weaving wisdom from all three women with insiders tips from top beauty experts, Clémence shares both timeless and age-specific information in three categories―Jeunesse (15-35), Plénitude (35-55), and Maturité (55+)―creating a wonderful guide that any woman can cherish throughout her life, and pass down to her daughter through the years."

I read this book after hearing it mentioned on the podcast The Simple Sophisticate by Shannon Ables. (since her book Choosing the Simply Luxurious Life: A Modern Woman's Guide is coming up next on my reading list, I'll gush about her in the review for that book. - but at the very least, treat yourself to this podcast.)

Reading this book, I realize that I must have some French in me, since I relate to this general beauty philosophy - it's more about taking care of your skin and health, than it is about a full face of makeup. Also, it is more about being "you, but improved" than it is about contouring, spackling, blowdrying, and coloring yourself unrecognizable. Being of Mediterranean extraction myself, I guess it's fitting. Plus, since any kind of skin treatment that makes your skin temporarily photosensitive has always scared me, I'm glad to know that in this philosophy, harsh skincare, chemical peels, and even exfoliation are a no-no.

Much of it was stuff I've been aware of before, whether from my mother, grandmother, friends, or magazines (good posture, sunscreen, perfume); and the health info (sleep, food, etc) was pretty basic, but it might be helpful for the jounesses of the readers.

However, I did appreciate learning the specific skin care steps and product recommendations. I had never heard of double cleansing before, but I have now incorporated it into my nightly routine. Following the types of products recommended, plus in the ways recommended, means that cleansing twice doesn't end up harsh or drying.

[Connie · Rating 4 out of 5]

The author, Clémence von Mueffling, begins the book by mentioning that her mother and grandmother were beauty editors at French Vogue. When Clémence was young, she would count the days until Christmas because her mom would receive boxes overflowing with the latest fragrances, creams and makeup products. As someone who subscribes to a beauty box in the mail with fun things to try, I can honestly understand that feeling.

This book has been organized into three age groups: Jeunesse (youth) ages 20-35, Plénitude (abundance) ages 35-55, and Maturité (mature) age 55 and over. The author sates that it’s good to begin at a young age, and and since your needs change with time, it’s a good idea to reconsider what you use as you get older. Each subject is organized by chapter and the age group recommendations are clearly marked, so it’s easy to find what you are looking for . The book covers a lot of territory: from facial massages to manicures, makeup; diet and lotion tips and products the author favors, it is stuffed full of information.

This book will benefit anyone looking for information on how to look your best at any age.

[Elaine Moore · Rating 5 out of 5]

A regular reader of health and beauty articles and books, I didn't expect to learn much of anything new. On the contrary, I learned an entire new philosophy that focuses on routines, discipline, a healthy diet, the importance of self-care and good posture. The book's emphasis is on self care as a way of life that's never ending.
While the author lists favorite products, there's no push to buy anything. Since puffy eyes have been my bane for years, I decided to try one of the recommendations for an eye cream by Avene, a cosmetics company I was unfamiliar with. I was fortunate to find it on Amazon and so far it's living up to the hype.

[Misty · Rating 2 out of 5]

There isn’t anything in this book that will be at all new to anyone with any established interest in beauty, but also isn’t focused/organized enough to be helpful to beginners. Most of it is not particularly French (which is why I bought it; I’m a hopeless Francophile), and on a couple of topics the advice is specifically American! There is very little concrete information from the mother and grandmother, just some nostalgic stories.

[KT · Rating 4 out of 5]

Interesting look at French culture and how French women are trained to take care of themselves. (Granted, the author is from a rich family of supermodels/beauty editors so I'm not sure if she's reflecting the average Jeannette...)

[Eve Apple · Rating 3 out of 5]

Meh....

[Nari · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book, as if with other similar titles, really highlights that the "French way" is really more preventative steps from early childhood, than the band-aid remedies employed here in the US. Sunblock from their teens, eating healthy, staying slim, and passing down advice from one generation to the next. I don't know how many families in the US follow those same methods, or how many people scramble to look for solutions after they've gained too much weight or have developed oily hair, etc. Based on the marketing in the US, the latter seems to be more prominent.

One thing I wish we had here are the French pharmacies. What a luxury to have that kind of expertise and assistance when it comes to beauty products and personal wellness and health.

The majority of the book was spent on the face. Care of, treatments for, products for, etc. I enjoyed the facial massage section and got a lot of weird looks from my family when I tested it out on myself. The hair section was also really informative, about the proper use of shampoo and conditioner.

The majority of the recommended products that the author recommends are either super pricey or just unavailable in the US. The same for many of the treatments that are offered in France. There are some DIY elements in this book, (the facial massages and hair styles), but little else.

I think The French Beauty Solution by Mathilde Thomas (co-founder of the Claudalie beauty line) offers more practical and reasonably-priced advice. But there is still plenty of information in this book that isn't covered in The French Beauty Solution. Both books would make for an excellent reference manual for any newcomer to self-care, beauty and health.

[Lisi Waukau · Rating 4 out of 5]

If you're into how-to beauty books and a bit of a Francophile, this is a great book. She doesn't just tell you what to do, she gives you background on why certain methods/products are recommended, talks about how to accomplish a goal (cleansing method, moisture, building exercise into daily life, etc) and the voice is constantly bouncing between her, her mother and grandmother and industry experts. Suggestions are broken into groups by age, so it's not presented as a one-size-fits all but rather a more generalized approach of "this is the goal" and "this is how to get it if you're X". Not sure if this was intentional or not, but she also spends a lot of time on the idea of self-care - not just treating yourself, but also the more practical reality of taking a few minutes a day or an afternoon once a month, really giving yourself whatever it is you need to feel like your best version of you. Only thing that prevented me from giving it 5 stars was that some products are prohibitively expensive or hard to find in the US and some suggestions were clearly from women with regular access to the best professionals (and childcare!) - I was, however, able to use the ideas presented to build some at-home beauty DIY with knowledge of where to spend & where to save. It reads like a beauty magazine but gives the suggestions of a professional without the judgement of the media - definitely changed my perspective on what beauty is, helped me tweak my regular habits and has led to my feeling & looking better!

[Tram Nguyen · Rating 4 out of 5]

Spent 3 hours in a bookstore across from the building that I had a job interview in San Francisco just to finish this book. It was well worth it. The book, even though it covers quite a lot of common knowledge about skincare that you could surely find in any youtube tutorial video, it does share interesting perspectives coming from the author herself being French and her grandmother. It was refreshing and a relief to learn that French women don't do anything too far off from American or Asian skincare regimes, it's just that they emphasize more on using local brand products and natural diets. The mental health also plays a very important part in the beauty aging process. The book shows that aging does not mean you would enjoy life any less, just in a different way. It tremendously helps prepping myself into the world of aging and maturity, albeit it's still years ahead. Welp, a little early knowledge never hurts! 4*/5*

[Jess · Rating 5 out of 5]

Ageless Beauty the French Way is not just another French lifestyle book. While I thoroughly enjoy most of those books out there, this one gives me what I actually want: How to care for myself the way the French do in an accessible way to me. After introducing all of these wonderful skin, hair, and body care tips, von Mueffling shares with you places she recommends (mostly in NYC) and in most cases gives suggestions on how to care for yourself at home if you don't have access or don't want to go to someone else. I loved the interviews with her mom and grandmother to see both how times have changed and what wisdom I can gain from what they have to say. As someone who does't have a role model like that to turn to, this book is invaluable. She also offers suggestions for how to care for yourself in all stages of life so this book truly appeals to everyone.

[Tama · Rating 4 out of 5]

An interesting read about the beauty industry fro 3 generations of one family who have worked in the industry. The grandmother and mother became beauty editors for the French Vogue. The daughter and author of the book worked for various industry giants and lives in NYC. She was able to describe the industries in the two countries and the ways in which women value and work toward beauty. There were many stories of well know men and women in the industry. One touch I liked is that the author took advice and perspective and framed it as a discussion from the three generations on multiple topics like hair, skin care, etc. overall an interesting read. I just reopened the electronic book and found beautiful photos that I did not see when I read the book. Be sure to look for them!

[Marie · Rating 4 out of 5]

Kudos for the multigenerational focus on beauty and self care. Lots of reflections from Clemence, her mother and grandmother; with very workable strategies and tips (i.e. it's not all about makeup and high heels) for women of all ages. I appreciated the favourite products tips. Did I just start this book yesterday? Wow!

[Alyssa Clark · Rating 3 out of 5]

Read this cause I’m a Francophile and love to learn about French beauty philosophy.

Overall this was a nice, easy read with cute tidbits of advice and overall ways to look at vitality and what beauty means.

Most things can be overwhelming (wow it’s a lot of work and expen$ive to take good care of yourself).

[Kate Fernstrom · Rating 4 out of 5]

Lovely read

Pretty much the same things you’ll find in every book written about French women, lifestyle, beauty etc... eat fresh, whole food, watch portion sizes, add activity to your every day, take care of your skin, apply makeup judiciously, buy clothes that fit and look good on you.

[Steph · Rating 3 out of 5]

I am French. I wanted to see if similar tips I grew up with would be covered. They were not. This is a very simplistic book on beauty. Basically French women take great care to look like we care not. We greatly care for our skin starting at a young age. It’s quite simple. Eat REAL food, drink water and take time each day to care for all of your skin head to toe.

[Elise Steele · Rating 5 out of 5]

A guide to beauty. It's so helpful to have skin/hair needs explained by what phase of life you're in. I love their approach to taking the best care of yourself you can while not obsessing over it and living your life!

[Flo Rouk · Rating 4 out of 5]

As a Frenchwoman, I recognized myself in the approach to beauty. I think she could have recommended brands which are good without being as expensive as the ones she gave - or both, for different budgets. The 3-generations advice was nice. I learnt a few things, which I started doing immediately!

[circle · Rating 3 out of 5]

OFFEnded by the perfume section in the book. clearly the people overapply perfume which is inconsiderate, rude, and tacky.

One upside is that I learned the word equanimity. I’ve come across the word many times but it never stuck until now ! Sentence at the end of the book was like “you can have equanimity with beauty “ which is a big deal since everyone ages and loses volume from their faces etc

[Gigi · Rating 3 out of 5]

Nice concept, but I didn't have time to finish.

Seems pretty wordy.