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'Smooths out imperfections': This fan-fave French moisturizer sells every 5 seconds

Want dewy, glowing skin? This hydrating cream, also popular as a primer, is a go-to for makeup artists and other pros.

Want to know the not-so-secret secret to glowing skin? Turns out it's been hiding in France for decades. Embryolisse Lait Crème Concentré first dropped in 1950, and the French pharmacy staple has been a fan-favorite with beauty editors, makeup artists and, of course, French women who swear that it's the key to graceful aging — and flawless makeup.

The versatile product has a devoted following for its light fragrance, effectiveness on all skin types and just-right texture as a makeup base.

$17 at Amazon

The paraben-free cream is formulated with shea butter, aloe vera, moisturizing soy proteins and protective beeswax to give you a more hydrated, soft, smooth complexion.

It's also one heckuva multitasker: Use it as a hydrating cream, makeup primer or even a face mask to quench tired, dry skin. You'll be in good company: According to the brand, one tube of the stuff even sells every five seconds. Scroll on to see what shoppers have to say about the moisturizer with near-perfect reviews.

models with swatches of the moisturizer on their faces next to a tube of the Embryolisse moisturizer
Nearly 22,000 Amazon shoppers love this Embryolisse moisturizer so much, they gave it a flawless five-star rating. (Amazon)

One reviewer who visited Paris and was impressed by locals' skin was determined to find out their secret. "I went to a pharmacy to get more info, as all the articles in Vogue said go there," they wrote. "It's a whole different thought process, and yes, I see an improvement!"

Another shopper with sensitive, acne-prone skin swears by this product. "This product causes no irritation," they wrote. "Before using this product, my skin was very reactive and prone to breakouts and weird dry patches. I simplified my routine ... I think any product that reduces the overall number of products you need to buy and use is a winner. Oh, I no longer wear any face makeup. This product has become my 'foundation.' I highly recommend it!"

"First time I learnt about this was back in 2010 when I used to do modeling in Paris," said a five-star reviewer. "All makeup artists used this cream before the makeup and they really recommended it to me. ... It's super gentle and perfect for my sensitive skin."

A final devotee shared, "[This cream was] recommended to me by a friend who works as a model; I was intrigued by the idea of using a product favored by professional makeup artists. From the first application, I was hooked. As a face cream, it's incredibly hydrating and nourishing, leaving my skin feeling soft, supple, and radiant. It also creates the perfect canvas for makeup application, smoothing out imperfections and creating a flawless base. I've found that my makeup applies more evenly and lasts longer when I use this as a primer."

You don't even have to fly to France to get your hands on a tube of this multitasker thanks to Amazon.

$17 at Amazon

If you have Amazon Prime, you'll get free shipping, of course. Not yet a member? No problem. You can sign up for your free 30-day trial here. (And by the way, those without Prime still get free shipping on orders of $35 or more.)

The reviews quoted above reflect the most recent versions at the time of publication.