The French pharmacies in Paris offer more than just medicine – they are the beauty editor-backed gateway to the best of French beauty.
Known for their high-quality skincare, haircare, and wellness products, French pharmacies (identifiable by their iconic neon green signs and technically called parapharmacies when they stock beauty) are a must-visit for beauty lovers, especially those looking for unassuming essentials that really work. In Paris, the pharmacies’ locations in some of the capital’s most famous neighbourhoods, also makes them easy to include in your travel itinerary.
From cult classics to lesser-known gems, here’s our guide to the must-visit French pharmacies in Paris and the products you should pick up while you’re there.
1. Citypharma
View this post on Instagram
Citypharma is by far the best-known French pharmacy in Paris and it’s often considered the holy grail for beauty aficionados (for good reason). Located in the bustling Saint-Germain-des-Prés neighbourhood and spread over three impressive floors, Citypharma is famous not only for its vast selection of products but also the variety. In fact, it carries nearly every major French pharmacy brand you can think of, and at some of the best prices – both in the city and worldwide. It’s often crowded – with both locals and tourists – and the fast-paced environment can feel a little overwhelming, but it’s all part of the experience. Think of it like a bustling market where you can come (list in hand) to score some great beauty deals.
What to buy
The world really is your oyster at Citypharma, but we’d recommend picking up the French skincare you already know and love (at reduced prices) so you can go in with a plan that beats the crowds. These could include La Roche Posay’s classic Cicaplast Baume – a soothing multi-purpose product, which is perfect for travel-worn skin; Bioderma’s gentle Sensible H2O Micellar Water that’s a staple in many French women’s routines; and Caudalie’s full range in clever travel sizes.
2. Pharmacie Monge
View this post on Instagram
The main rival to Citypharma in terms of popularity (especially among South Korean visitors due to social media), Pharmacie Monge is a great place to get discounts on major French brands, as well as product-based advice if you are feeling overwhelmed. The Latin Quarter-located pharmacy is particularly well-stocked with natural and organic brands that are popular among Parisian locals, and it’s really well-organised, making it easy to find your favourite skincare without the stress. The standout feature though is the staff, who offer amazing customer service as well as personalised consultations to help you find the right products for your skin type or specific needs. They are also known for giving out generous travel-sized samples, so you can try new products without committing to a full-size purchase.
What to buy
Shop like a Parisian by stocking up on natural skincare and bodycare brands such as Nuxe’s classic Huile Prodigieuse dry oil and results-driven pharmacy essentials. A313 is a potent retinol used to tackle wrinkles by in-the-know French women, and Homeoplasmine, a multi-purpose ointment for quickly soothing irritation.
3. Pharmacie des Archives
View this post on Instagram
Located in the fashionable Marais district (which is known for its boutique shopping and historic charm), Pharmacie des Archives is less crowded than some of the more famous pharmacies. That makes it an excellent choice for those who prefer a more boutique-like shopping experience. A must-visit for skincare aficionados who value quality over quantity, Pharmacie des Archives is known for its carefully curated selection of high-quality products, often focusing on luxury and niche brands that are not as widely available. Unlike larger pharmacies that might carry a vast array of products at varying price points, Archives tends to focus on stocking products that are renowned for their efficacy. It’s also known for keeping up with skincare trends, so it’s the place to go to find this season’s most in-demand products.
What to buy
‘French Girl’ beauty is all about laid-back, effortless glamour and that starts with skincare; specifically a glossy, super hydrated face that’s perfect for ‘no makeup’ makeup. That’s why French skincare products often reign supreme when it comes to moisturising and soothing formulas, including cult classics such as Embryolisse Lait-Crème Concentré and Vichy 89 Serum. If you have sensitive skin, these are definitely worth investing in, alongside the classic Avene Cicalfate Treatment Spray.
4. Your closest one
View this post on Instagram
Another way of embracing the Parisian pharmacy scene is to simply nip into your nearest pharmacy when you are out and about in the capital. For the most authentic experience and to source products that are less mainstream, you may want to head away from touristy areas (where prices can be marked up a little). The selection is likely to be smaller but much more curated, so you can see what are true best-sellers in the area and shop like a true French woman. Just be ready to browse without assistance, especially if there is a language barrier.
What to buy
Now is definitely the time to select something you haven’t tried before but, if you’re nervous about taking the leap, look to single-use or wash off products. These won’t cause any harm if you discover you don’t like them. Highlights include Cattier’s really affordable face masks which are a dream for dry, irritated complexions, and Le Petit Marseillais – seriously fruity body washes that are great for the whole family.
We may earn a commission if you buy something from any affiliate links on our site.
Lead image credit: The French Pharmacy
Any Questions or Tips to add?