The Magic of French Pharmacy Skincare: My Tried and Tested Favorites
Bonjour, mes amis! Today we're going on a little trip to France, where we'll explore some of my favorite French pharmacy skincare staples. What is it about French pharmacy skincare that has people raving about it around the world? Well, it's a combination of things - a focus on gentle, yet effective ingredients, innovative formulations, and the sense of luxury that comes with using these products. Without further ado, let's dive in and explore some of my personal favorites!
Best for nourishing and hydrating
Embryolisse Lait-Crème Concentré
The Embryolisse Lait-Crème Concentré is undoubtedly one of the most iconic French pharmacy products. Loved by makeup artists and models alike, this cult classic moisturizer has been around since the 1950s. Packed with natural ingredients like shea butter and aloe extract, this creamy moisturizer not only hydrates, but also works as a makeup primer and a remover. It's suitable for all skin types and has a price range of around $28 for a 75ml tube. You can find it at most online retailers and French pharmacies.
Best for replenishing the skin
Embryolisse Filaderme Emulsion
The Embryolisse Filaderme Emulsion is another gem from the same brand. Its primary focus is nourishing and repairing dry, dehydrated skin. Key ingredients include wheat germ oil and hyaluronic acid, which work together to restore the skin's natural barrier and lock in moisture. This lightweight emulsion has a price range of around $35 for a 75ml tube.
Best to protect and repair
Biafine Emulsion Tube Cream
Biafine Emulsion is a highly popular product among the French and for good reason! This emulsion cream was initially designed for treating minor burns, but has since gained a following for its soothing and healing properties. Containing glycerin and trolamine, Biafine promotes the regeneration of skin cells and guards against infection. This wonder cream costs around $20 for a 100ml tube.
Best for insect bites and sunburn
Boiron Arnigel
Boiron Arnigel is a homeopathic gel that harnesses the power of Arnica Montana. Known for its ability to heal bruises and reduce inflammation, it's a great addition to your skincare arsenal. It soothes irritated skin and can help with acne flare-ups, insect bites, and even sunburn. A tube of Boiron Arnigel comes in at around $20.
Best for chapped, dry skin
Boiron Homeoplasmine
Another Boiron product that has gained a cult following is Homeoplasmine. Originally created as a homeopathic remedy for treating minor cuts and abrasions, Homeoplasmine has since become beloved as a lip balm and a treatment for chapped, dry skin. Thanks to its key ingredients, such as calendula and boric acid, this ointment helps to soften and nourish the skin. A tube of Homeoplasmine retails for around $18 and can be found in French pharmacies and online retailers.
Best for restoring damaged skin
Bioderma Cicabio repairing cream
Bioderma Cicabio repairing cream is a must-have for anyone looking to restore their skin. This creamy healing balm helps to soothe damaged and irritated skin, while providing long lasting protection from bacteria with zinc oxide. It's formulated with natural ingredients like shea butter and beeswax, which help to nourish the skin. A 40ml tube of Bioderma Cicabio repairing cream costs around $15.
Best for busy parents
Mustela No Rinse Cleansing Water
Mustela No Rinse Cleansing Water is an essential for busy parents or anyone who wants a quick and easy cleansing routine. This no-rinse formula effectively removes dirt, oil, and impurities without stripping the skin of its natural oils. It's enriched with nourishing ingredients like avocado perseose and meadowsweet extract, which help to soothe and hydrate the skin. A 500ml bottle of Mustela No Rinse Cleansing Water costs around $15.
Best for skin conditions like eczema or psoriasis
Avène Cicalfate Emulsion
Avène Cicalfate Emulsion is a fantastic product for those suffering from skin conditions such as eczema or psoriasis. It's designed to protect and repair damaged skin with its key ingredient, sucralfate, which helps to restore the natural barrier of the skin. This emulsion also contains Avène Thermal Spring Water, which helps to soothe and reduce inflammation. A 100ml bottle of Avène Cicalfate Emulsion retails for around $30.
Best to soothe and reduce inflammation
La Roche Posay Cicaplast Baume B5
La Roche Posay Cicaplast Baume B5 is a multi-purpose skin healing balm that works wonders on chapped, dry skin. Its main ingredient is panthenol, which helps to replenish the skin and protect it from further damage. This balm also contains shea butter and glycerin to soothe damaged skin and help it recover faster. A 50ml tube of La Roche Posay Cicaplast Baume B5 retails for around $15.
