French skincare is rightly famed for its effective formulas, and French-made cosmetics are sold at reassuringly affordable prices in Paris. You can find pretty everywhere cosmetics there (Brand shops, shopping malls, beauty stores…). But for French people, the best place to buy them is Pharmacies, where you can get expertise and useful advice to find the most suitable skincare for you. In this article, we will introduce several trendy French skincare and food supplements that can be found in Paris Pharmacies: we have selected some of the best and most trendy products in 2023, and that are complementary one with another. If you are interested to shop for cosmetics in France, have a look at our special offer here.
Famous and Niche French brands: introducing beauty products and cosmetics Parisians love the most
France is for sure the country where the cosmetic brands per inhabitants rate is the higher in the world! There are new brands created almost every day, it’s not easy to choose one when confronted with this overwhelming variety. We selected some products that you could pick up next time you’re in France.
There are already famous brands or new trendy Parisian brands that are not yet famous abroad but very popular in France.
Nuxe: Huile Prodigieuse
Huile Prodigieuse is a very famous Multi-Usage Dry Oil Spray. This luxurious oil nourishes, repairs, and softens both your skin and hair.
How to use it?
The Nuxe Oil is a great alternative to use as a moisturizer. Not only does it hydrate your skin but it is packed with tons of rich nutrients to help revitalize your complexion. But you can use it in many ways: as hair oil, body lotion, massage oil, shaving oil...
VICHY: Mineral 89
Before applying a Serum and cream, beauty experts advise using a booster to target specific skin concerns and to multiply the effects of the Serum you will use after. Many great French cosmetic brands develop their booster. it’s the case of Vichy, with Mineral 89 which is mainly made of Vichy mineral water and hyaluronic acid. It has a plumping, smoothing, and moisturizing effect on the skin.
How to use it?
Dispense two pumps per application before dotting it on the forehead, cheeks, and chin and using your hands to smooth across the face.
Algologie: Elixir des Vagues
This elixir boosts hydration and enhances the benefits of your usual moisturizer. Its refreshing formula enriched with highly moisturizing hyaluronic acid helps the skin feel supple and comfortable. Algologie products, made in the French north-western region of Bretagne, are doing local sourcing of their natural marine active ingredients. 97% of the ingredients are of natural origin.
How to use it?
Using your fingertips, apply 3 to 5 drops to your entire face, neck, and décolleté, morning and/or evening. Wait 1 to 2 minutes, then apply the care cream.
Darphin: Intral Serum
Serums are a great tool for treating specific skin concerns. They penetrate deeper into the skin layers and deliver powerful ingredients directly to the skin. Darphin best seller Intral Serum helps reduce the appearance of redness and instantly quiet discomforts associated with irritated skin. Its delightfully scented formula softens sensitive skin and leaves a comforted, more even-looking complexion. It also provides daily protection against environmental aggressions.
How to use it?
Apply 3 pumps to face and neck after cleansing and toning. Massage gently with fingertips in an upward motion from the inner to the outer part of the face. Leave to absorb before applying your cream.
La Roche Posay: Hyalu B5 Serum
This Serum is anti-aging and ultra-hydrating by combining concentrated pure hyaluronic acid and vitamin B5 for optimal effectiveness while also being suitable for sensitive skin. The serum helps repair skin by replenishing the natural moisture barrier, and the serum texture leaves skin feeling supple and hydrated.
How to use it?
Fill the dropper with serum and apply 3-4 drops in the morning and/or evening on face and neck. It can be used alone or under a moisturizer.
Clarins: double Sérum
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Double Serum is a bestselling anti-aging serum with a dual-chamber system that combines two age-defying formulas into one groundbreaking serum that reactivates the skin’s vital functions (the two-phase formula is inspired by the dual water and oil nature of the skin). Formulated with 21 potent plant extracts, it firms, smoothes, and boosts the radiance of the skin. The serum has a fluid texture and can be used for any skin type.
How to use it?
One pump per application of Clarins Double Serum is all you need to benefit from its anti-aging properties. You can first warm the mixture in your hands to bring it to skin temperature and mix both phases. Then distribute the product evenly over your face and neck, and make draining pressure to make the skin absorb better the serum. A small drop is enough for normal to oily skin and warm climates, a power shot is more suitable for dry skin and cold climates.
Uriage: Sérum Bariederm- Cica daily
Uriage is a brand that is often recommended by French dermatologists: the brand uses Thermal Water (of the spa town of Uriage-les-Bains, near the Alps) which has been used for 200 years for dermatological treatments. Their products are very efficient on sensitive skins. Bariederm Cica-daily high tolerance dermatological Serum strengthens, protects, and repairs damaged and fragilized skin. It is particularly recommended in case of dull complexion, discomfort, signs of fatigue, fine lines, small visible imperfections, or light redness.
How to use it?
Unscrew the lid and press the top of the white stop down before releasing it to fill up the pipette. Use the pipette to apply to the fingertips or directly to the skin, in the morning and the evening. Massage into a perfectly cleansed, dry complexion.
Bioderma: Hydrabio Serum
Bioderma is a cult brand loved around the world and specialized in non-comedogenic products. Hydrabio light-weight serum provides dehydrated and sensitive skins with instant and lasting hydration. Hydrabio Serum increases moisture in your skin up to 57% within 15 minutes only. It also helps to visibly smooth skin.
How to use it?
Apply Hydrabio Sérum on your face and neck, after cleansing and toning. Gently massage until fully absorbed.
Algologie: Elixir de l'Archipel
Elixir de l'Archipel is a serum enriched with Marine Prebiotic & Postbiotic to reduce blemishes, balance and unify the skin. It particularly suits problematic skin and reduces by 63% pimples in only a month. 98% of its ingredients are of natural origin.
How to use it?
Morning and/or evening, apply 3 to 5 drops with your fingertips to the entire face. Then apply your moisturizer.
Condensé Paris: concentré actif hydratation
This Serum for normal to combination skin is a moisturizing and anti-pollution intensive facial treatment. It has a velvet texture and its formula is plant-based, made with natural active ingredients. It contains mountain aloe extract which enhances the formula's protective and hydrating action, to leave skin infused with moisture and protected against external aggressions and pollution.
How to use it?
Apply on face, neck and décolleté morning and night, under your cream.
Sisley: Emulsion écologique formule avancée
Sisley is a French luxury brand that creates high-performance, plant-based skincare. Emulsion Ecologique formule avancée (ecological compound advanced formula) adapts to suit the needs of every skin type to help it function optimally. This unique formula, reputed for its successful original complex of five plant extracts, is now enriched with two new key ingredients (Burdock and Meadowsweet extracts).
Ecological Compound advanced formula promotes a balanced microbiome and stimulates the skin’s natural defense mechanisms. The skin is more resistant and better equipped to defend itself against the harmful effects of the environment (pollution, smoke, free radicals, etc.). It also contributes to the optimal activity of the skin’s vital functions. The skin is revitalized and its tone and radiance are restored. To finish with, it lastingly hydrates and nourishes the skin to leave it more comfortable and supple. Its fluid, comfortable, and non-greasy “second-skin” texture leaves the skin matte
How to use it?
Use light motions to apply Ecological Compound advanced formula to a clean and dry face and neck in the morning and evening. It can be applied alone or before any other skincare product to optimize the rest of the routine.
Caudalie: Premier Cru la Crème Riche
The Rich Cream Premier Cru is a deeply nourishing anti-aging cream powered by patented technology (TET8™) to correct the 8 signs of aging: deep wrinkles, fine lines, firmness, volume, elasticity, dark spots, intense moisture, and radiance. Its rich texture, enriched with lipid-replenishing bio-ceramides, restores the skin's natural barrier. The bio-ceramides used in The Rich Cream are similar to skin barrier lipids that strengthen the skin, limiting water loss and providing comfort to dry and sensitive skin. It is also available in a refill format for a more eco-friendly purchase: once finished, remember to keep your jar and only throw away the empty refill.
How to use it?
Apply Premier Cru The Rich Cream morning and evening, to the face and neck, alone or after your serum. To optimize your cream’s effectiveness, apply from the center of the face and move outwards, finishing with upwards movements from the décolleté and neck to the forehead.
Uriage: Bariederm-Cica daily gel crème
The Uriage Bariederm-Cica moisturizer is an ideal protective face cream for damaged and fragile skin, which is gentle enough to be used on a daily basis to help hydrate, rebalance and soothe skin. It’s suitable for everything from dull complexions and minor discomfort to signs of fatigue, fine lines, small visible imperfections or light redness. It contains Uriage Thermal Water associated with Inulin, a prebiotic, which offers a unique rebalancing action on the cutaneous and microbial barriers. Enriched with repairing Centella Asiatica, Hyaluronic Acids (high and low molecular weight) and Vitamin B5, this gel-cream instantly moisturizes the skin, promotes skin regeneration, and boosts its radiance.
How to use it?
Apply in the morning and evening all over your face after applying the Bariederm-Cica serum on perfectly cleansed, dry skin.
Condensé Paris: Smoothing eye Serum (soin lissant contour des yeux)
The eye contour is a very specific area of your face. Most cosmetic products cannot be used near the eyes because they can cause irritations. That’s why it’s always better to use specific products. "Smoothing eye serum" of the brand Condensé Paris reduces dark circles and under-eye bags. It is also an anti-aging and anti-wrinkle eye contour care. It has a light and velvety texture.
How to use it?
Apply morning and evening around the eyes. For better results and a stronger cooling effect, it is advised to keep it in the fridge.
Sisley: Sisleÿa eye and lip contour cream
The eye contour area is the most vulnerable, easily affected by many factors such as stress, overexposure to the sun… Sisleÿa provides a complete solution by fighting against the visible signs associated with the 3 types of aging: genetic and environmental aging, but also those linked to personal lifestyle. Even the vertical lines above the lips, an area particularly influenced by behavioral factors (smoking, sun, etc.), are visibly smoother.
The combination of plant-based expert active ingredients works to reduce puffiness and dark circles and has an anti-wrinkle and firming action. It is suitable for sensitive eyes and contact lens wearers (tolerance tested under dermatological and ophthalmological conditions). and brings immediate results (hydration, eyes appear rested and brighter) as well as long-term results (wrinkles are visibly smoother, skin is firmed, dark circles and puffiness are diminished, and eyes are opened up).
How to use it?
It comes with a massage tool to perfectly prepare the skin before the application of the skincare product.Use gentle, light-pressing motions around the entire eyelid and below the eye area to support microcirculation and to help de-puff. Then apply the cream morning and evening along the eye contour area, eyelids, and the contours of the lips.
Caudalie Premier Cru la Crème Yeux
This luxurious anti-ageing and instant brightening eye cream is powered by a patented technology ( TET8™) to correct signs of aging of the eye contour: Crow’s feet, Puffiness, Lip lines, Fine lines, Dark circles, Nutrition, Hydration, Radiance. The result is an instantly brighter and younger-looking eye contour. The cream is formulated with 97% of natural origin ingredients.
How to use it?
Apply the Eye Cream Premier Cru morning and evening to the eye contour and lips using its massaging tip. In the morning, for an immediate congestion-relief and enhancing effect, use the tip like a brush: put the cream under the eye contour, smooth towards the outside then finish by tapping lightly. In the evening, for a lifting effect, apply the cream over the eye contour and massage from the outside to the inside using the metal tip. or even more effectiveness, put the Eye Cream in the fridge.
Roger & Gallet: Fragrant Wellbeing Water Spray, Fig Blossom (Fleur de Figuier)
Roger & Gallet is a very famous French perfume company founded in 1862 in the Heart of Paris. All their fragrances are imagined by French master perfumers, their bottles are invented by great French designers and their boxes are decorated with poetic artistic illustrations.
Fleur de Figuier is based on a fig pulp accord, heightened by crisp notes of fig leaves and refreshed by hints of mandarin blossom. It's a fragrance with both warm and fresh tones, and incredibly enveloping relaxing benefits.
Botot: royal toothpaste with natural essences and Bain de bouche
Usually, French people buy their toothpaste in supermarkets. But when they are searching for more quality and health-oriented brands, they usually get them from drugstores. The French brand Botot is the oldest oral care French brand: the mouthwash elixir was created in Paris by the doctor Julien Botot for French King Louis XV in 1755. The brand still exists nowadays and keeps making oral care products. We particularly recommend their Cinnamon Clove Mint toothpaste, and the concentrated mouthwash elixir, inspired by the original formula of the King's mouthwash elixir.
How to use it?
You can use Botot water morning and evening after brushing your teeth, or whenever your breath needs. Pour a few drops into a glass of water and rinse your mouth with it by swishing vigorously.
Health products and Food supplements: some useful products that can be found in French Pharmacies
France is not only the country of cosmetics, it is also the country of supplements and other health products. There are many brands making Made in Francehealth products with natural vitamins, minerals, and plants. It is strongly recommended to seek the advice of a health professional before taking Food supplements: by buying them in a Drugstore instead of online, you can get useful advice from pharmacists. Here are some quality health products that could be useful for you or your relatives.
NHCO: Orthosamine and Artixine
The first ones are made by a very innovative French Brand, NHCO. The Brand is specialized in the research on Amino Acids, which are essential to the proper functioning of our organs. Their bestseller Orthosamine can be useful for everyone, as it contains the perfect intake of all the vitamins, minerals, and essential amino acids which are vital for well-being and maintenance of good health. One pillbox corresponds to a 6 weeks program, that can be renewed 2 or Three times a year according to need.
The brand also develops specific supplements adapted to different needs. The product Artixine is recommended for joint comfort. With age, joint flexibility decreases which brings discomfort and pain. Artixine helps to relieve sensitive joints and maintain bones and connective tissues.One pillbox contains a 3 weeks program but it can be continued as needed.
Arkopharma: Perle de Peau
We usually rely only on topical applications (skincare products) to take care of our skin. However, skin condition mostly depends on dietary nourishment. Skin supplements can help support gorgeous, glowing skin and be a good addition to your skincare routine. The Perles de Peau range, from the French Laboratories Arkopharma, has several products to target specific issues.
Perles de Peau Hydratant focuses on hydrating, for supple and flexible skin nourished from the inside.
How to use it?
it’s an intensive 3-month program (2 capsules taken daily).
Phyto Paris: Phytophanere
Designed to support healthier hair and stronger nails, this supplement is a lifesaver for weak, thinning, damaged hair and nails. It contains Vitamins B2, B5, B6, B8, Vitamins C and E, Zinc, and Borage oil. It is recommended for All hair types, Men & Women, Chronic & reactional hair loss concerns, thinning hair, visible scalp, and hair growth issues.
How to use it?
2 capsules per day, preferably taken with a large glass of water in the morning. A treatment (2 bottles) lasts for 4 months (can be done, twice a year, over seasonal changes).
Biocyte: Vitamine C Liposomal and Glutathione Liposomal
The Brand Biocyte became famous thanks to its very efficient collagen products. But Biocyte is also leading in the market of Liposomal supplements (The liposomes are micro-spheres whose structure is identical to that of the cell membranes: they coat the active substance and protect it from the external environment). Biocyte has innovated by creating a new generation of Vitamin C in liposomal form. The method increases the bioavailability of vitamin C and improves its absorption by the body. Vitamin C contributes to reducing fatigue and to the normal function of immunity.
How to use it?
Take on or two pills per day in the morning, with a glass of water.
Biocyte also develops a Glutathione Liposomal. Glutathione is a molecule that is an essential antioxidant for our body. It helps neutralize the free radicals (that cause damage to the tissues and organs). The treatment fives a daily 100 mg dose of reduced glutathione. In addition, the liposomal vitamin C contained in this food supplement acts in synergy with glutathione and protects cells from oxidative stress.
How to use it?
1 capsule per daywith a glass of water (1-month program).
SynActifs : Memo-Protect and Capactif
Memo-protect is a dietary Supplement for Healthy Cognitive Function and memory. The formula contains a potent blend of ingredients (Gingko Biloba, Choline, Vitamine B1, B3, B5, B6, B12, Sélenium...) that have been shown to contribute to the normalfunctioning of the nervous system and to promote normal cognitive function.
How to use it?
You can take two capsules per day (1 month program).
Cap Actifs is a food supplement, in the form of capsules, that helps to act on hair loss, hair growth, and the health of your nails. It's a combination of organic plant dry extracts, organic brewer's yeast, and organic vitamins.
Arkopharma: Chondro-Aid
Chondro-Aid Fort is a dietary supplement containing highly concentrated Boswellia extract as well as collagen and vitamines known for their properties on the joints. It supports comfort, flexibility, and joint mobility. It acts on several levels: Cartilage (through vitamin C), Muscles and Bones (Vitamin D3), tendons and ligaments (Maganese).
How to use it?
Take 3 capsules per day divided throughout the day preferably with meals. It is advised to follow a 3-month program for more efficiency.
Parapharmacie Monge, the best place to find the finest Beauty Products in Paris at discounted prices
You might ask why it would be better to shop in a Parapharmacie than in a random Beauty Shop? Well, for Perfume or Makeup it would not matter much, but as far as skincare and cosmeceuticals are concerned, it is always better to have useful advice from professionals. The pharmacists are trained to identify your needs and to suggest the best products according to your skin types, skin disorders…
There are few parapharmacie in Paris that offers such a large range of brands and products as Parapharmacie Monge. You will of course find all the best-sellers of the worldwide famous brands. But Monge also selects and introduces many niche Parisian cosmetic brands that you can hardly find elsewhere. It’s the perfect place to discover innovative and unique brands. Moreover, the parapharmacie Monge is very “tourist-friendly” with multilingual staff and the highest tax refund rate in Paris (15% instead of the usual 12%).
Moreover, you can get an additional discount thanks to O’bon Paris coupon,click here to check our special offer. Note that the 10% discount coupon can no be used on already discounted products. It is only available in the "tax refund / Caisse rapide" counter: show the coupon clearly before payment to enjoy the discount.
Parapharmacie Monge is located at 78 rue Monge. It is quite easy to access by Metro through line 7. You can get out at Place Monge station, metro gate 1. There is only one Pharmacy Monge in Paris! Monge is often imitated but never equaled.
Parapharmacie Monge is Opened Monday to Saturday, 8 a.m to 8 p.m. It is also opened on the follower Sundays and national holidays: January 8th, 22nd, February 5th, 19th, March 5th, 12th, 19th, April 2nd, 10th, 16th, 23rd, 30th, May 1st, 7th, 8th, 14th, 18th, 21st, and 29th.
Authors: O'bon Paris team
Photos: Phan Thanh Thuy
