The French Skin Care You Don't Need a Plane Ticket to Shop (2025)

Plain and simple, Americans love French stuff. And among the most beloved? The best French pharmacy products. Stateside, we swoon over the French beauty ideal—that “oui, voilà, I just woke up like this” energy. The storied insouciance. The Parisian minimalism that makes a quick boulangerie run look like a runway strut. While that aesthetic is largely a romanticized stereotype, there’s a kernel of well-moisturized truth behind the vibes. No, French women aren’t perfect, but yes, they do prioritize skin care. And it shows.

That emphasis on good skin (and hair care, tbh) is thanks in no small part to the quality and accessibility of French pharmacy skin and beauty products. In France, pharmacy shelves are stacked with dermatologist-backed brands in clean, clinical packaging that tells you exactly what it’s for. The pharmacists themselves are often trained to give personalized advice, not just upsell you on aesthetic packaging.

Our Top French Pharmacy Products

• Best Overall: La Roche-Posay Lipikar AP+ Gentle Foaming Cleansing Oil, $18
• Best Moisturizer: Embryolisse Lait-Crème Retinol-Like, $45
• Best Multipurpose: Boiron Homeoplasmine, $23
• Best for Barrier: Violette_Fr Boum-Boum Milk, $64
• Best Splurge: Caudalie Premier Cru The Cream, $119
• Best for Retinol Beginners: Avène RetrinAL 0.1 Intensive Cream, $79
• Best for Redness: Biafine Emulsion, $27
• Best for Body: Bioderma Atoderm Crème Ultra, $22
• Best for Breakouts: Vichy Normaderm S.O.S Acne Rescue Spot Corrector, $23
• Best for Frizz: Phyto Phytodéfrisant Botanical Smoothing Balm, $30

Back in the day, scoring these staples required a passport and a roomy suitcase. Now, the best French pharmacy products are available stateside with ever-expanding fan clubs. We chatted with editors about their go-to produits Français—from cleansers to lotions to toner mists—to help you get in the know. Joyeuse shopping!

Frequently Asked Questions

• Why do Americans like French pharmacy products?
• Are French pharmacy products better than American ones?
• Meet the experts
• How we test and review products
• Our staff and testers

Best Overall: La Roche-Posay Lipikar AP+ Gentle Foaming Cleansing Oil

Why it's worth it: La Roche-Posay makes some of the gentlest, most effective skin care en France, so it's no wonder its products have made a splash stateside. The Lipikar AP+ Gentle Foaming Cleansing Oil is a longtime editor-favorite for its thermal water-spiked formula, non-stripping suds, plentiful hydration, and eczema-friendly composition. It also works wonders on your body, making it an elevated two-in-one shower routine staple. Divya Shokeen, MD, a California-based board-certified dermatologist, is a fan, calling the product a "gentle, nourishing shower oil [that] is free from soap, sulfate[s], and parabens." You'll also get a dose of shea butter, niacinamide, and glycerin, working together to bring back suppleness to parched skin.

Oh, and this formula is also an incredible makeup remover. "It combines the benefits of an oil cleanser and a foaming wash, effortlessly dissolving makeup and impurities without stripping the skin's natural moisture," says Viktoryia Kazlouskaya, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in NYC. "It's hypoallergenic and great at removing waterproof mascara, heavy makeup, and water-resistant sunscreen. Plus, the niacinamide helps soothe any irritation or redness," adds Nazanin Saedi, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in East Norriton, PA. You kind of can't go wrong.

Tester feedback from Allure contributing editor Deanna Pai: "I'm pretty low-maintenance, so my gripe with most cleansers is that I need a separate micellar water to remove my waterproof mascara. Two steps? With a toddler? I prefer this oil-based cleanser, which not only rinses away my more stubborn makeup and sunscreen with ease but also has a really nice, satisfying lather. And it just works: Even when I've got a full-eye look, I never have to go back in to swipe away residue from my lashes."

Key ingredients: thermal spring water, niacinamide, glycerin | Who it's for: everyone, especially people with very dry skin | Fragrance-free: yes

Best Moisturizer: Embryolisse Lait-Crème Concentré

Why it's worth it: Another milky magician, Embryolisse's Lait-Crème Concentré Retinol-Like may look like a humble, mature-skin-friendly moisturizer at first glance, but don't be fooled—there's more than meets the tube. This formula moonlights as a line-softening cream, smoothing makeup base, body lotion, and face mask. Starring French clover (a.k.a. grand trèfle), this collagen-stimulating, galactomannan-rich extract smooths and soothes while mimicking the effects of retinol. Shea butter, carnauba wax, and aloe vera are at play, too, delivering serious nourishment, comfort, and balance—all without clogging pores. While it's gentle enough for just about everyone, it does have a light floral scent, so if fragrance isn't your thing, you may want to keep scrolling.

Tester feedback from content director Kara McGrath: "The texture of this cream is just divine. It's lightweight and absorbs quickly, but leaves your skin feeling fully hydrated without any stickiness. It definitely isn't as potent as my regular retinol serums, which is sort of the point: It's less likely to irritate sensitive types, but the many emollient ingredients the cream contains can help plump up dehydrated skin to reduce the appearance of fine lines."

Key ingredients: French clover, shea butter, beeswax, aloe vera, soy proteins | Who it's for: people who want a versatile moisturizer | Fragrance-free: no

Best Multipurpose: Boiron Homeoplasmine

Why it's worth it: Boiron’s Homeoplasmine may look like something your derm would scribble on a prescription pad, but in true French pharmacy fashion, it’s available over the counter. This multi-purpose balm is capable of many, many things: mix it with lipstick to turn mattes into moisturizing balms, slick it through unruly brows to tame strays, dab it on red patches for a soothing moisture hit, or condition lashes from root to tip. It’s even mildly antiseptic, so it can calm blemishes and help with the sting of minor burns. Basically, it’s a French army knife in a tube. This stuff isn't available on the sites you likely already shop on, but it's worth tracking down.

Tester feedback from Allure editor in chief Jessica Cruel: "I picked up this gem in a pharmacy at Charles De Gaulle airport. I noticed all the flight attendants were stocking up, so it seemed like a solid choice. This product is a bit too thick for my face, but it could be good for slugging if you are into that thick jelly texture. I prefer to use it as a spot treatment on chapped lips, ashy elbows, and flaky cuticles."

Key ingredients: calendula, benyzone, boric acid, parrafin | Who it's for: everyone | Fragrance-free: yes

Best for Barrier: Violette_Fr Boum-Boum Milk

Why it's worth it: In French, milk is lait, and in America, we're lait-ing down our lives for Violette_Fr's Boum-Boum Milk. Right on trend with all things milky skin care, this three-in-one works as a spray-on toner, serum, and moisturizer that supports the skin barrier and works to improve texture all over your face. Lacto-fermented birch sap (the result of sap having undergone lactic acid fermentation, the same process used to make yogurt), glacial water, and squalane are at the core of this elixir, allowing for probiotic support, skin-soothing, and hydration. Yum.

Tester feedback: "Violette makes some of the best makeup in the game, so when she (and her eponymous brand) ventured into skin care, I knew it was going to be good. The best way I can describe this is a supercharged mist (birch sap, squalane, you name it) that feels like a weightless veil of hydration—though, that being said, I do wish it were a tad stronger," says commerce editor Sarah Han. "I mist all day, using it as a midday refresher, as a makeup primer, and toner after double-cleansing. Now that's versatile."

Key ingredients: lacto-fermented birch sap, glacial water, squalane | Who it's for: people with dry skin types, people with redness | Fragrance-free: yes

Best Splurge: Caudalie Premier Cru The Cream

Why it's worth it: A 2022 Best of Beauty alum, Caudalie's Premier Cru The Cream is a worthy splurge, especially if your skin barrier's been through it. This rich-yet-quick-absorbing formula features the brand's proprietary TET8 technology, a blend of antioxidants including resveratrol, honokiol, and viniferine that even skin tone, calm redness, and hydrate like a professionel. Thanks to its mostly oil-phase composition, the cream feels luxurious going on but melts in without a trace. You'll also get a dose of micro-hyaluronic acid for even deeper hydration and honey locust sugars that give skin a temporary firming, tightening effect. The lift only lasts a few hours, but we like to think of it as a subtle cherry on top.

"I've been using this moisturizer for months now and am actually starting my second refill any day now, so I can report that this is by far one of the best moisturizers I have ever used (a bold statement, I know)," says shopping market editor Angela Trakoshis. "It's really more than just a moisturizer: I have noticed my skin has transformed from looking dull and dry to hydrated and glowy, and I even find that it's helped treat my pesky hyperpigmentation and even out texture." Trakoshis likes Caudalie's Premier Cru The Rich Cream, too, but prefers it in colder months. "It's like Cru's thicker sister—like a blanket for my skin."

Tester feedback: "My face gets tomato-red over anything: the slightest changes in weather, a quick workout, a single glass of wine…even a small tinge of anxiety can make my entire face flush," said former commerce writer Jennifer Hussein. "Caudalie's cream provides the comfort my constantly-inflamed skin needs while leaving it with a dewy, bouncy appearance."

Key ingredients: TET8 technology, resveratrol, honokiol, viniferine | Who it's for: people with weak skin barriers | Fragrance-free: no

Best for Retinol Beginners: Avène RetrinAL 0.1 Intensive Cream

Why it's worth it: Ah, a gentle retinoid. They're few and far between, so when we find one, it really hits. Avène's RetrinAL 0.1 Intensive Cream is one of those finds—ideal for people just starting with their retinal journey. "This is one of my favorite brands for mature or sensitive skin," says Asmi Berry, DO, a board-certified dermatologist in LA. "It uses retinaldehyde at a clinically backed concentration to smooth texture and even tone—without the irritation that often comes with retinoids." Noah Levit, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in Connecticut, agrees and appreciates the addition of hyaluronic acid and niacinamide, which makes the whole experience easier for sensitive, eczema-prone skin. The result is diminished fine lines, a firmer complexion, and amped-up brightness.

Tester feedback: "I'm still early on in the old-enough-to-use-retinol phase of my life, but I have a nasolabial line that I'm trying to soften, and I've found some positive progress with this product," says contributing commerce writer Annie Blackman. "It's also hydrating and airy, and I feel like there's definitely a bit more evenness to my skin."

Key ingredients: retinaldehyde, hyaluronic acid, niacinamide, thermal spring water | Who it's for: retinoid beginners | Fragrance-free: yes

Best for Redness: Biafine Emulsion

Why it's worth it: A dream for angry, irritated skin (think sunburn fallout), Biafine’s Emulsion is a thick, soothing salve that brings serious relief. This protective, barrier-boosting cream is designed to help skin heal, whether you’re dealing with contact dermatitis, the aftermath of a food allergy reaction, or a minor kitchen mishap. You can apply it two to four times daily anywhere that’s feeling raw, inflamed, or plain uncomfortable (just steer clear of infected areas). It’s one of those products you’ll want to have on hand before you need it. Bonus points for the chic, no-nonsense packaging.

Tester feedback: "I’ve been a believer in French moisturizers since I was turned on to Embryolisse by a celebrity makeup artist a decade ago," says Cruel. “I use the Biafine emulsion in a similar way: as a primer before makeup so that powders and creams blend seamlessly. When my skin is feeling extra dry or right after an intense aesthetic treatment, I also turn to this tube because it’s the least likely to irritate."

Key ingredients: trolamine | Who it's for: everyone | Fragrance-free: yes

Best for Body: Bioderma Atoderm Crème Ultra

Why it's worth it: Dermatologists swear by Bioderma's Atoderm Crème Ultra—and with good reason. "For those with eczema, this cream is a game-changer for restoring the skin barrier—and it's safe for the whole family, babies included," says Fatima Fahs, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in Michigan. It's loaded with barrier-repairing niacinamide, ultra-nourishing shea butter for deep hydration, and a blend of glycerin and mineral-rich water to lock in moisture and fend off dryness all day. The instant, all-over nourishment is a no-brainer and gentle enough to use daily. For severely dry or rough patches, consider upgrading to Bioderma's Atoderm Intensive Baume.

Key ingredients: glycerin, mineral water, niacinamide, sunflower seed oil | Who it's for: people with dry skin, people with eczema | Fragrance-free: yes

Best for Breakouts: Vichy Laboratories Normaderm S.O.S Acne Rescue Spot Corrector

Why it's worth it: On days when you muster the self-control not to pop your pimple, Vichy's Normaderm S.O.S Acne Rescue Spot Corrector is the way to go. This super-concentrated spot corrector comprises 10% sulfur and lightly exfoliating glycolic acid and oil-controlling niacinamide, which dry out zits and prevent new ones from cropping up. "Sulfur is well-known for its anti-bacterial and anti-inflammatory properties," explains New York City-based board-certified dermatologist Marina Peredo, MD. "When used in skin care, sulfur works to absorb excess oil that causes acne by drying out the surface of the skin and unclogging pores." Does it smell a little like eggs? Yes. Does that weirdly make us feel like it's working? Yes.

Tester feedback: "A friend recommended this spot corrector, and I'm so glad she did," says Blackman. "It's a no-frills product I put on before bed (or during WFH days) when battling an active blemish. I feel the dry-out power for sure, and it gives me a reason not to dig into the zit with my fingernails—always a plus."

Key ingredients: sulfur 10%, glycolic acid, niacinamide | Who it's for: people with whiteheads | Fragrance-free: yes

Best for Frizz: Phyto Phytodéfrisant Botanical Smoothing Balm

Why it's worth it: Phyto's Phytodéfrisant Botanical Smoothing Balm is the perfect first step before taking a blow-dryer to your precious little head. Lightweight and non-greasy, this balm softens and smoothens hair while bracing it for the frizz-sparking effects of heat and humidity, especially the kind that comes roaring out of a hot tool. It's made from a blend of plant-based goodies like hydrating marshmallow extract, cuticle-sealing guar gum, and a softening cocktail of ferula, sage, horseradish, and matricaria extracts. Apply it to wet or damp hair, distribute with a wide-tooth comb (or your fingers), and get to blow-drying.

Key ingredients: marshmallow extract, guar gum, ferula extract, sage extract, horseradish extract, matricaria extract | Who it's for: people using heat on their hair | Fragrance-free: yes

Frequently Asked Questions

Why do Americans like French pharmacy products?

American admiration of French pharmacy products is, without a doubt, connected to a general sense of fascination and mysticism with French beauty and style, and there's a definite allure to that foreignness. "Because there are products available in French pharmacies that are not available in the US—either at all or without a prescription—we wonder if these products may hold some of [the French beauty] secrets," says Hadley King, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in New York City.

Are French pharmacy products better than American ones?

French pharmacy goodies aren't necessarily better than stateside ones, but the average formula tends to be a little more sophisticated than the average formula you'll find at a U.S. drugstore. "Brands like La Roche-Posay, Vichy, and Avène deliver formulations that are often backed by robust dermatological research, featuring active ingredients like thermal spring water, niacinamide, and retinoids—minus the fluff," says Mona Gohara, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in Connecticut. "Their efficacy is dialed in, but their textures? Silky, weightless, and a dream to layer. It's skincare that works but also feels good—a rare combo that's just as at home in a derm's office as it is on a vanity tray inMonaco."

Meet the experts

• Hadley King, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in New York City
• Mona Gohara, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in Connecticut
• Fatima Fahs, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in Michigan
• Divya Shokeen, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in California
• Marina Peredo, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in New York City
• Noah Levit, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in Connecticut
• Asmi Berry, DO, a board-certified dermatologist based in Los Angeles
• Viktoryia Kazlouskaya, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in New York City
• Nazanin Saedi, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in Philadelphia

How we test and review products

When Allure tests a product, our editors look at it from every angle in an effort to best serve you. We review ingredients, scrutinize brand claims, and, when necessary, examine peer-reviewed scientific and medical studies. In addition to testing each and every product that’s included in each and every review, we rely on experts who shape their fields, including dermatology, cosmetic chemistry, and medicine, to help us vet the ingredients and formulas.

For our list of the best French pharmacy products, we considered each product’s performance across five primary categories: product ingredients and efficacy, packaging, fragrance, texture, and product wear. Every product was determined to have excelled in each category by our editorial team, which is composed of in-house writers and editors as well as contributors—along with special consideration from two dermatologists. To learn more information on our reporting and testing processes, read our complete reviews process and methodology page.

Our staff and testers

A beauty product is a personal purchase. You might be searching for a face cream to address persistent dryness or a new nail product to add to your Sunday self-care routine; you may simply be browsing around for the latest launches to hit the hair market. No matter what you seek or your individual needs and concerns, Allure wants to ensure that you love anything we recommend in our stories. We believe that having a diverse team of writers and editors—in addition to the wide range of outside testers and industry experts we regularly call upon—is essential to reaching that goal.

After all, can we really say a skin-care product is the "best" for people over 50 if the only testers we've solicited opinions from folks who have yet to hit 30? Can we honestly deem a high-end diffuser worthy of your hard-earned cash if it's never been tested on curls? We're proud that our staff spans a wide range of ages, skin tones, hair textures, genders, and backgrounds, which means that we are able to fairly assess any beauty product that comes into the beauty closet.

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