French women are fiercely loyal to their favorite pharmacy beauty products. Where beauty is concerned, many have been using the same lotions and potions that have been sold for decades, as have their female relatives before them. It seems the best buys are not always the most obvious, expensive, nor the fanciest-looking. And while these goodies can’t actually make your gene pool more Gallic, it would appear they are the key to the “I don’t need makeup/blowouts/lipo/fillers cause my skin/hair/body/lips are so good they should be on show—untampered with—for all the world to see.” I gathered the nine French pharmacy beauty products I can’t live without below.
Klorane Dry Shampoo With Oat Milk
It eliminates oil and adds volume to hair between washes, extending the life of your blowout while leaving tresses soft, smooth and fresh. Oat Milk, the nourishing key ingredient, helps to balance and soothe your scalp while imparting a gentle fragrance. ‘Natural Tint’ is infused with mineral pigments that help it blend into dark hair.
Vichy Mineral 89 Hyaluronic Acid Serum
It combines the highest concentration of Vichy mineralizing thermal water enriched with fifteen minerals and hyaluronic acid to enhance long-term hydration, essential for healthy skin. Apply morning and evening to cleansed skin by spreading a touch of booster all over the face. Spread with outward movements from the middle of the face, without applying too much pressure.
Avene Thermal Spring Water Spray
If your skin is hypersensitive or quick to become irritated, tight and uncomfortable, then Avene’s Thermal Spring Water Spray is an essential addition to your beauty routine. The light refreshing mist relieves razor burn and works as an aftersun, as well as soothing skin undergoing anti-acne treatment or aggravated by hair removal. Perfect after exercising or when traveling. Use it to set your makeup, or as an effortless addition to your cleansing regime.
Bioderma Sensibio H2O
The rinse-free cleansing and makeup removing solution that started it all, Bioderma’s cult favorite Sensibio H2O micellar water revolutionizes waterless cleansing by sweeping away all traces of the day while replenishing the skin’s natural hydrolipidic film. Its gentle formula effectively removes dirt, oil, and even waterproof makeup while soothing and clarifying the skin. The result is a clean, fresh complexion that’s ready to receive the benefits of your skincare. Exceptionally refreshing and soothing, it’s no wonder a bottle of Sensibio H2O is sold every 2 seconds worldwide…
Vichy Pore Purifying Mask
A mineral-rich face mask expertly formulated to help purify and soothe oily skin that’s prone to blemishes and acne. The innovative treatment utilizes two types of ultra-fine clay, kaolin, and bentonite, to unclog impurities and excess sebum whilst minimizing the appearance of pores without stripping away essential oils. Remineralising thermal water then works to rebalance optimum moisture levels and enhance the skin’s natural protective barrier.
Avene Translucent Mosaic Powder
A corrective, multi-colored pressed powder for sensitive skin. It features a water, sweat and transfer-resistant formula glide on effortlessly and convenient for carrying around provide natural shades including beige and rosés. Also, it helps set makeup, mattifies skin or sculpts the complexion. Captures light to add a healthy glow.
Nuxe Huile Prodigieuse Dry Oil
A multi-purpose dry oil for face, body & hair. It contains a concentration of six precious plant oils and vitamins penetrates quickly to repair and hydrate skin and hair in a single step. Skin appears soft and smooth while leaving hair supple, lustrous and healthy looking. Mix it with your usual foundation for easier glide-on application.
La Roche Posay Micellar Water
It uses micellar technology to help remove 99% long-wearing foundation makeup. It also removes impurities from your skin, even pollution particles. Apply this micellar cleansing water to a cotton pad and gently wipe face, eyes, and lips. Repeat until cotton pad looks clean and no need to rinse. Use as a cleanser, makeup, remover, or a toner.
La Roche Posay Micellar Water • $19.99
Vichy 24 Hour Dry Touch Deodorant for Sensitive Skin
It has is a quick dry formula that helps to combat odors for up to 24 hours. The roll-on formula is free from aluminum salts and perfectly adapted to all skin types, even sensitive. Enriched with perlite and an odor-absorbing perfume, the deodorant ensures armpits are protected from humidity and odor throughout the day. The formula dries quickly upon application.
