Bastide Beauté d’Argile Mask and Elixir II Oil

My love of all things French is beyond well-documented at this point. And it’s clear that love extends to French beauty products. I discovered Bastide, a clean beauty brand from Provence, last winter and fell head over heels. Naturally, the launch of their new skincare line more than piqued my curiosity. I was lucky to get an early chance to try both the Beaute d’Argile Mask and the Elixir II Nourishing Oil and I must say, they did not disappoint.

A quick note: yes, the packaging is a big part of what I love about Bastide. My weakness for beautiful packaging is something I can readily admit to. But Bastide products aren’t just pretty. The presentation satisfies my love of beautiful branding, and the products really work.

What it is: According to Bastide, the Beaute d’Argile Mask is a multi-use, beautifying French mineral clay treatment formulated with Roussillon red clay and red rice extract. It gently purifies congested pores while rebalancing skin for a hydrated and plump finish. The Elixir II Nourishing Oil is a a dual-action, lightweight blend of clean, botanical oils and extracts. Smaller and larger molecular-sized oils deliver reparative nutrients into the skin’s deepest layers. At the same time, they form an antioxidant shield to defend against pollution. The oil thereby nourishes and protects delicate skin on the face, neck and decollete.

What to do with it: Apply the clay mask evenly over your face and allow it to harden until your skin feels tight. Remove with warm water and follow with the Elixir II Nourishing Oil. I like to apply the mask immediately after a warm shower, but you can use it anytime.

What it costs: $78 for the Beaute d’Argile Mask. $130 for the Elixir II Nourishing Oil. Bastide products are sold exclusively at Holt Renfrew (and on holtrenfrew.com) in Canada.

Why it’s fabulous: I love the idea of clean beauty, but I’ve had mixed results with clean beauty products. Bastide, however, manages to stand by their clean beauty ethos, using high quality, natural ingredients while formulating beauty products that deliver real results. To me, the Beaute d’Argile Mask and Elixir II Nourishing Oil serve as the ultimate power duo when my skin needs a little extra care. (And since I run almost every day in the summer heat, that’s practically all the time.) Unlike many clay masks, the Bastide version easily washes clean without scrubbing. That means no unintentional exfoliation and no stubborn mask streaks, a major bonus! And the Elixir II Nourishing Oil hydrates without feeling heavy on skin, a summer must. Not to mention that it leaves behind no film or shine, which lesser oils sometimes do.

I fell for Bastide because of its French connection. But I return to the brand again and again for the quality of their products. You might think you don’t need another mask in your life. That’s probably true. I don’t – I only need this one.

Have you tried Bastide products? If so, I’d love to hear about your experiences!