The interview of Alexis, founder of Poulettes Paris, on the occasion of the 2nd anniversary of the organic skin care brand

What inspired you to start your own beauty brand?

Ever since I was a little boy, I have always enjoyed initiating, organizing and completing projects. It started with ambitious Lego constructions, and then in the framework of associative activities, before taking shape in work.

I found myself at a young age taking over the management of Cattier, one of the pioneering companies in organic cosmetics. It was very stressful, but at the same time, it allowed me to understand that I was motivated by a freedom of action that I could not have had as an employee.

The entrepreneurship with Les Poulettes Paris, it is common sense, intuition, rolling up sleeves and inspired and constructive debates with the team on the future of the Organic beauty. This is a sector that is constantly evolving, and is currently undergoing a profound change, directly linked to the major issues of society: the evolution of the female condition, respect for the environment, better consumption.... We are constantly questioning ourselves and we never get bored.

Why did you choose to offer certified organic products?

I fell into the organic beauty business by chance and I have remained in it by conviction and passion. I was lucky enough to live through the great years of growth and evolution of organic cosmetics following the general public's awareness of the risks associated with parabens in particular.

Let's be honest, in the early 2000s, making an ORGANIC formula that didn't stick and smell a little bit bad was difficult. Organic cosmetics were mostly aimed at a very limited audience.

Today, organic beauty is a must. And the suppliers of certified organic raw materials, Cosmos Organic, offer a range of ingredients that allow us to develop formulas that are as sensorial as those offered in traditional cosmetics. As for organic certification, it is clearly restrictive. But in a context where consumers are becoming more and more demanding about the composition of their beauty products, it remains the best guarantee.

The name "Les Poulettes" is very nice and refers to female friendship and solidarity. What does it mean to you as a man?

Society is evolving but we won't lie to ourselves, the pressure on women is still considerable, whether at work or in the management of the home. Female solidarity, whether within a group of girlfriends or a more or less formal association, is essential. I see it with my wife: female mutual aid is omnipresent in her life. For light or serious matters. I believe in the power of community, in sharing good tips, in daily solidarity. And I learn a lot from my female friends who amaze me every time. I find them creative, resilient, humble.

The brand often refers to Parisian women. Who is the contemporary Parisian woman for you?

Parisienne is a state of mind more than a residence, a physique or a wardrobe. Besides, few Parisian women were born and raised in the capital. And many wonder if they wouldn't be happier elsewhere. Paris is a beautiful city, but it's exhausting. The Parisian woman, for me, is the one who doesn't let herself be pushed around and who assumes - always politely but firmly - her opinions, even if it means displeasing people. She is the one who has the gift of embellishing daily life with three times nothing. She knows how to laugh at herself and her contradictions. And also the one who knows how to celebrate small victories. The Parisian woman is smart, uncomplicated, and above all very funny. That's why she inspires so much.

You started with a line of masks. Why did you do that?

After 15 years of promoting organic beauty around the world, and after many trips to Asia, I noticed that there was no organic offer in the category of "Korean sheet mask". I found this type of care really smart: practical to use, able to rehydrate the most thirsty skins and offering immediate visible results in terms of radiance. I then thought of creating a Made in France and Organic version of this type of express care. For me, a mask is also the quintessential moment of relaxation. It is important to take a few minutes of "me-time" every day, in your beauty routine. It's not vanity. It's a wellness break that we all deserve.

In the long term, how do you see "Les Poulettes Paris" evolving?

I feel like saying "Sky is the limit". More seriously, I think that "Les Poulettes Paris" have the potential to evolve towards a more complete range of cosmetic care, while remaining faithful to their principles: organic products favoring natural plant extracts, simple to use. Beauty products that do not promise miracles but visible and long-lasting results in terms of hydration, balance and luminosity. It is also a brand that I would like to develop abroad. The attraction for French Beauty is not going to fade away, especially with the development of organic beauty brands.

What do you like most about your job?

Receiving testimonials from customers who appreciate the products! It means a lot to me that they take the time to thank us. I also like the richness of entrepreneurship which allows me to have several jobs in the same day: salesman, logistician, accountant, researcher, ... And of course, what a satisfaction to open new points of sale to make discover our products to new customers!