French pharmacies merge my two favorite things: skincare and travel. When I go somewhere new, I like to pretend to be a local: do some grocery shopping, pick up some toothpaste, and get a feel for how life works.
And it’s no wonder French women have some of the best skin around: their version of Rite Aid or Boots is essentially affordable Sephora. When Scarlett Johansson was creating her skincare line The Outset, she said she was inspired by the products found at French pharmacies.
And good news! Many of these products are not gate-kept in France, and you can try them for yourself at home. (Peep the links.) However, some are extra special French finds, so next time you’re crossed the channel or made it to this side of the pond, duck into a pharmacy — they’re on every corner — and try them for yourself.
The cleansers
Every good skincare routine starts with a reliable cleanser, and you’ll find all types of cleansers at a French pharmacy. You might even like a double cleanse or prefer a simple micellar water to prime your face. Here are some of my favorite cleansers you can find at a French pharmacy.
Avène Cleanance - This alcohol-free cleanser is ideal for oily and acne-prone skin, but it’s not over-drying and can really work for just about anyone. It’s got a little tingle, which I think just means that it’s working. (US link | UK link)
La Roche-Posay Effaclar - There are plenty of great cleansers to choose from in the La Roche-Posay line, but this one for sensitive skin is gentle and effective. (US link | UK link)
Nuxe Lait Démaquillant - This rose-scented, creamy makeup removing cleanser moisturizes as it cleans. Plus, it smells oh so good. (US link | UK link)
The toners
Never underestimate the power of a good toner. Getting your skin ready to apply and absorb serums is paramount to the process, and a good toner or essence can make or break your routine. Also, controversially maybe, I’ve included micellar water in the toner section, as I like to use it as a gentle toner.
Caudalie Vinopure Toner - This French flagship brand boasts several hero products. This cool toner clarifies and purifies — I can feel my pores clearing out as I use it. (US link | UK link)
Bioderma Micellar Water - Honestly, if you buy one product, buy this one. It’s the GOAT. Generally, you can find it at the pharmacy in a two-pack. Buy it. Feeling lazy? Cleanse with it. Need a makeup remover? Mascara is gone in moments. It’s the best. (US link | UK link)
The serums
Serums are truly the star of the skincare routine, and some of my absolute favorite serums come from French pharmacies. Also, you’ll get the luxury results without the luxury price. Win win.
Vichy Minéral 89 - Hyarulonic acid serums are a dime a dozen these days (and you can definitely find good, cheaper options from places like The Ordinary and The Inkey List), but this one from Vichy feels like it gives you a little extra plump. Not sure if that’s the dermatological term for it, but my skin seems to bounce back after application. (US link | UK link)
Caudalie Vinoperfect Radiance Serum - Whether you’re dealing with acne scars or age spots (or both), this creamy serum is virtually an eraser. I saw a difference after just a few weeks and am now a devotee for life. (US link | UK link)
A313 - This one you can only find within the French borders, but it’s oh so worth it. I like to call it “Botox in a tube” because the jelly-like texture and rapid retinol results are truly a needle-less miracle. You won’t find this on the shelf, however. You’ll need to ask for it behind the counter. If you want to practice your French, it’s “A trois-cent treize.”
The moisturizers
My biggest regret from my youth is not understanding the value and power of a good moisturizer. I used to have oily skin so I didn’t think I needed one, and oh how wrong I was. Good news for people of all skin types is that there are moisturizers from light to heavy and everywhere in between at French pharmacies. These are some of my go-tos.
Embryrolisse Lait-Crème Concentré: This moisturizer is a cult-favorite. You can also use it as a creamy cleanser or a gentle makeup primer as well. It’s super light but also super moisturizing, and I always buy in bulk whenever I have the chance. (US link | UK link)
Avène Hydrance - This is another lightweight option (thought a little heavier than Embryolisse) that I like to pop in my dopp kit for travel. It’s great for sensitive skin and the moisture lasts all day. (US link | UK link)
La Roche-Posay Cicaplast Baume B5 - I love to use this one as a night cream (combine it with A313 for amazing results) as its heavy moisture and healing powers revolutionize the skin. I also use it as a daytime moisturizer when my skin is drier during the winter months. (US link | UK link)
The sunscreens
If you’re not wearing spf every day (yes, even in the dead of winter), you’re during skincare wrong. But nobody loves the greasy white film that many sunscreens leave behind after application. Well, good news. There are sunscreens from French pharmacies that disappear into the skin. Here are my top picks.
Caudalie Vinosun - This silky liquid goes on post moisture with high sun protection and zero residue. It’s also a perfect base if you’re applying makeup. Unfortunately, I can only seem to find this product available on shelves in France.
La Roche-Posay Anthelios - Similar to the Caudalie one above, this super fluid sunscreen goes on easy and leaves no marks behind. It’s great for face and body. They even sell a tinted version if that’s your thing. (US link | UK link)
Avène Sunscreen - This is the best all-over sunscreen. Sensitive enough for use on your face, but also moisturizing and great for everywhere else. Don’t be fooled by the slight yellow tint. It won’t last. (UK link)
The rest
There’s so much more than cleansers and serums that you can buy at a French pharmacy; the limit truly does not exist. Here are some other favorite categories to peruse and explore while you’re shopping around.
Hand creams - You can never have enough hand creams. I, for one, have one in my entry way, bedside table, desk, and purse. So stock up and try out some new ones from France. I’m a big fan of this Nuxe one (US link | UK link) and this Caudalie one (US link | UK link).
Face sprays - I love a face spray to use while travelling, freshen up after the gym, makeup setting, or just for a general refresh whenever. The Caudalie Eau de Beauté (US link | UK link) has cult status, and Avene Eau Thermale spray (US link | UK link) is my fave. Yes, it’s essentially water in an aerosol bottle, but it’s worth it.
Lip balm - The Nuxe Reve de Miel “honey dream” lip balm changed my life. It’s great as an overnight lip mask or a great one to use every day on the go. (US link | UK link)
My favorite French pharmacies in Paris
There’s a French pharmacy on what feels like every corner in Paris so you won’t have to wander far to find mecca. However, there are two that I frequent most often both because they have the best selection and are in nice neighborhoods to wander around.
City Pharma (17 Rue des Bernardins) - This pharmacy in Saint Germain des Près neighborhood is undeniably the biggest and most-popular place to go (and you’ll encounter the crows to prove it). Set over three floors, you’ll find everything you’re looking for and so much more. I’d recommend trying to go early on a weekday, though, as the skincare enthusiasts can go a little bit nuts.
Haussmann Opera Pharmacy (19 Boulevard Haussman) - Just around the corner from Palais Garnier, this pharmacy is one of my absolutely favorites. It’s much smaller than City Pharma, but super well-stocked with a good selection. Definitely a much more accessible starting place. Also, since you’re already in the neighborhood, I highly recommend taking a tour of the opera house. Who knows? You might spot the Phantom.
And that’s it! I hope you enjoy your time perusing a French pharmacy (or two) or simply buying the products on Amazon. Lol. Let me know if you have any other favorite French pharmacy products in the comments! I would love to try them.
