Q&A with Clémence von Mueffling

Both Clémence von Mueffling’s mother and grandmother served as beauty editors for French Vogue, so it was hardly surprising when she launched the online magazine Beauty and Well Being in 2014. Cosmetics have always played a role in her life, but it wasn’t until the birth of her twins that the Frenchwoman was inspired to take a new approach to beauty. Now living in New York, von Mueffling touts the benefits of a holistic, natural approach to looking one’s best. Here, the wellness expert shares her tried-and-true tips for home and while traveling, and gives Indagare a peak into her cosmetic bag.

How has your French heritage influenced your beauty regimen? My mother and grandmother, and their illustrious careers, are probably the two most influential factors in shaping my life. Not only were they strong female role models, but they had the best beauty advice and always knew the latest and greatest products. Some of their tricks that any woman can benefit from include: always wash your face before bed; use natural makeup; and find a signature perfume.

You spend a lot of time in the South of France. What are some of your favorite spots there? The South of France is my favorite place in the world. Paddleboarding, snorkeling and floating in the Mediterranean never gets old. For beauty treatments, I adore the Heraclea Spa (Rue François Sibilli; 33-6-22-74-07-49; www.heracleaspa.com). Here are some of my favorite restaurants in St-Tropez:

• Le TiGrr: This is a great Thai spot with gorgeous views from above the town. (14 Ave. Paul Signac; 33-4-94-810-810; tigrr.fr/tigrr-saint-tropez)
• Bagatelle: This lunch spot has the ambiance of a private beach and great service, food and design. (Route de L'Epi; 33-4-94-79-83-25; bagatellesttropez.com)
• Le Canastel: Our go-to spot when dining with the kids. The pizzas are simple and delicious.

I prefer day spas to multi-day stays. In New York, I love the lymphatic drainage treatments at the Plaza’s Caudalíe Spa. And I never leave the city without getting a face massage at Isabelle Bellis (60 E 66th St; 212-966-3262; isabellebellis.com).

What are your tips for staying healthy while traveling? I always travel with my own food and never eat what is served on planes. I’m a fan of Raw Crunch bars, which are unprocessed and low in sugar, and I make sure to stay hydrated with lots of water or detox tea from Kusmi. When I’m with my family, I prepare sandwiches in advance. I never drink alcohol when traveling—it can enhance the effects of jet-lag. My beauty routine stays the same, so I try to cleanse and hydrate my face, and I do my own toning facial massage.

What products do you always have in your carry-on bag? I have lots of travel essentials; here are my must-haves:

• Nuxe travel-size moisturizer
• Clarins hydrating hand cream
• Caudalíe lip balm
• Kusmi herbal tea bags
• Snacks (energy bar, almonds, 85% dark chocolate)
• Ear plugs

I learned a lot working for such prestigious companies, but the focus was more geared towards younger consumers, and I felt we knew little about skincare for older women. This gap in knowledge inspired me to work with beauty editors from a wide age range, so that when we talk about beauty routines, we have a diverse group with tips appropriate for their peers.

What about having children made you want to launch Beauty and Well Being? I have become more aware of the importance of clean products. Everything we put in or on our body affects our health and that of our children, which is why it is so important to look at the ingredients in foods and cosmetics. At Beauty and Well Being, we strive to give our readers a digestible amount of quality information, so choosing the right products is easy.