France continues to see huge growth in exports of prestige cosmetics to China.
This follows a record year in 2021, which saw China become the largest destination for French beauty products.
Last year, French exports to China were up 56 percent compared to that of 2019, while growth figures at the end of this year are expected to easily top that. As it stands, lipstick and mascara are the top two export products, with huge demand for these items.
Julien Romestant, director of economic intelligence at French cosmetics network Cosmetic Valley, said that by 2024 China would become the largest global consumer of cosmetics, overtaking the U.S. and Europe.
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"The Chinese market is in full growth as more and more cosmetic products are imported," Romestant said.
Shanghai-born model Li Qian, now based in Paris, is well aware of the pressure to look good in the 'city of lights' which is also the unofficial world capital of luxury.
"Quality in makeup is extremely important," said Li. "When we do our makeup with French-made products, the color is the same as what it says on the label. It also stays looking fresh on the face and doesn't wear off or fall down after about 10 hours, like some other products do.
"On top of staying power, French-made cosmetics are also very good for the skin."
The often heftier price tag that comes with a premium product is no barrier when it comes to beauty.
French cosmetic products are in hot demand in China. /CGTN
"Girls in China save money to buy the more expensive brands of makeup, because they think it makes them look prettier," added Li. "French products are everywhere, in all the department stores and many other stand-alone shops.
"People buy a lot, so they have many stores to cater for the huge interest. I live in Shanghai and you can find the products very easily."
Beauty has always played a major role in different cultures around the world, with France historically recognized when it comes to cosmetics.
Romestant added: "Louis XIV, Napoleon and elegant women forged the glamor of Paris. There's also a French soft power linked to Fashion week – along with the big luxury brands which make French products very interesting."