If you’re wondering what to buy at a French pharmacy, or specifically what to buy at CityPharma in Paris, this guide covers the best French pharmacy skincare, beauty staples and cult-favorite products worth bringing home.

As the founder of En Route to Rêverie and a self-proclaimed Francophile, I don’t think any trip to Paris is complete without a stop to a French pharmacy to stock up on beauty products.

Going to CityPharma in Paris in particular is truly a favorite past time as it is a mecca for discounted French beauty products. Don’t miss it on your next trip to Paris and be sure to look out for the majority of the brands mentioned in this post!

They also offer a variety of products that are exclusive to France and you won’t find in the U.S. so definitely worth exploring each and every aisle at this Saint Germain spot. This post is kept up to date with my favorites and you’ll find a handy checklist below that you can save to your phone for easy reference as you shop!

What to Buy at CityPharma in Paris

This post has been fully updated for 2026 with new French pharmacy favorites and trending products.

CityPharama is located at 26 Rue du Four in the 6ème arrondissement of Paris, often referred to as Saint-Germain-Des-Prés. It is beloved not only for its selection of beauty products spanning the entire first floor of this three story pharmacy, but also because it offers the most attractive prices on French beauty brands.

That being said, I will admit that the selection can be a bit overwhelming. So, to help you navigate the experience, I’ve put together a little handy check list of some of my favorite products for you to grab while you’re shopping. 

If you plan to spend quite a bit, be sure to bring your passport so you can get the proper paperwork for your VAT refund.

And don’t be afraid to ask for recommendations! The staff that work at CityPharma, several of whom speak English, are so knowledgable. And if you tell them what you’re looking for and about your skin type, they should be able to offer up some great suggestions for you to add to your cart and try when you get home.

Lastly, if you don’t feel comfortable speaking French and are looking for particular products, I think it is helpful to have photos on your phone to help guide the staff to source what you’re hoping to purchase.

Or you can use the handy checklist at the bottom of this post or show them this blog post, too.

And if you need further guidance on the best brands to shop, don’t miss my Best French Skincare Brands post and my guide to the Best French Pharmacy Skincare Products.

Trending French Pharmacy Products Right Now

• La Roche-Posay UVMune 400 SPF 
• Avène Cicalfate+ Restorative Cream
• SVR Sun Secure line (especially Blur SPF)
• Caudalie Vinoperfect Eye Cream
• Nuxe Huile Prodigieuse Florale

Without further delay, here are some of the best French beauty products I think are worth picking up when shopping at CityPharma. 

Embryolisse Lait-Crème Concentré

One of the most popular French pharmacy moisturizers, Embryolisse Lait-Crème Concentré is beloved by makeup artists. Its also loved by many a celebrity and I love that it works so seamlessly under makeup.

I buy this product in the mini size as it is great for travel since it is part moisturizer, part makeup primer.

I like a lot of products this brand makes – including their skin tint, their color correcting concealer and eye balm so you may want to look for those, too! 

La Roche-Posay Cicaplast Balm B5

La Roche Posay reigns supreme over French pharmacies for good reason. This line is beloved in particular by those with sensitive skin.

I personally love their Cicaplast line – especially the Balm B5. It’s like a fancy aquaphor for your face but more wearable. It’ll repair your skin barrier and help it recover from any irritation.

They’ve expanded the line of the Cicaplast Balm now so you’ll find loads of styles and forms. I have a mini to always travel with now which I love.

But skip the spray – I don’t think it is as effective or easy to apply.

Filorga Sheet Masks

I’m not usually a fan of sheet masks but Filorga is the exception to my rule. Their Time Filler and HA masks are must-haves and much cheaper when bought at CityPharma. 

NUXE Huile Prodigieuse Multi-Purpose Dry Oil

The OG French oil I ever bought and loved. You can use this elixir full of essential oils all over your body, on your hair, on your cuticles – really anywhere you’d like some healthy looking shine.

I love that there’s no shimmer to the original formula of this oil and how quickly it absorbs. But the product is so popular they’ve expanded the range and you can find a shimmer version and other scents as well as various sizes.

French women love to add a few drops to their body lotion as well.

Nuxe Very Rose Micellar Water

I adore this gentle cleanser as a second cleanse at night. I have gone through multiple bottles and am always restocking when in Paris.

I use it in tandem with the reusable cotton pads found here.

Donormyl Sleep Aid

My friend Kayla turned me onto these pills that help with mild insomnia. I always travel with them. You’ll have to ask the pharmacy counter for these as they are kept behind the ‘caisse’. 

Christophe Robin Purifying Sea Salt Scalp Scrub

My scalp cleanser of choice – I use this as my shampoo and I always, always restock it when I am at CityPharma. I get the full size when I need it and always buy a mini as it is my preferred shampoo in my Toiletries for Travel.

Christophe Robin is a famous celebrity colorist and this product put him on the map.

The scrub feels like a spa treatment to use and detoxifies your scalp from any product build up or irritation. I’ve gone through more tubs of this stuff than I can count over the last ten years! It’s an Allure Best of Beauty award winner and I am always stockpiling the minis for travel as I can’t be without this stuff!

Dermophil Indien Original Lip Balm

This is an unfussy yet cushiony lip balm often sold in a two pack.

Caudalie Beauty Elixir

Beloved by makeup artists for being so multi-purpose, you’ll find women using the Caudalie Beauty Elixir all over France and it is always stocked on the shelves of CityPharma – readily available in both travel sized and full sized.

As a setting spray, as a way to refresh makeup, as a therapeutic ritual –  you name it, this spray is one of my holy grail skincare products and I prefer to buy it in the travel size so I can have one on me when I am on the go and in flight. It is great for travel days in particular as it’ll help refresh dry skin.

Caudalie Grape Water

This has cult-status with my French friends (and their mothers!) This 100% organic grape water features 100% natural origin ingredients and sustainable packaging while being rich in minerals, potassium and moisturizing polysaccharides to deliver intense, immediate hydration.

It is particularly great if you have sensitive skin that needs soothing! I keep this on my nightstand whenever my skin feels like it needs a good drink via a face mist.

Caudalie Resveratrol Lift Instant Firming Serum

If you’re over the age of 30 do not miss this serum! It does an amazing job of firming skin that is aging and therefore losing collagen and firmness. And it is significantly cheaper at CityPharma.

I really like the Caudalie Resveratrol Lift Firming Eye Gel-Cream and the Caudalie Resveratrol Retinol Alternative Firming Cashmere Cream.

Caudalie Premier Cru Rich Cream

This cream is expensive so buying it in France is a worthwhile endeavor. It is so, so good for aging, dry skin.

It works to target eight signs of aging and really works to put hydration back into your skin. In the morning my skin looks more plump and is less flaky and patchy when I use this at night.

Related: Caudalie Skincare Review

Caudalie Vinopure Purifying Toner

In general, I love the Caudalie selection at CityPharma and you’ll find several SKUs that aren’t available in the U.S. which is fun! (But skip their Skin Tint – I wasn’t a fan!)

Bioderma – Sensibio – H2O Micellar Water

Sensibio H2O is the best selling cleansing and makeup removing micellar water that first made micellar waters popular as makeup removers. It removes impurities and makeup super gently. It’s in so many bathrooms around France and I prefer it to the U.S. brands that sell something similar.

At CityPharma you’ll find a plethora of products from the Bioderma brand that feature their micellar water – makeup wipes, cleansing milks, eye makeup remover and more.

Akileine Revitalizing Foot Mask

This works wonders in just one application! Apply a liberal amount onto each foot, place some socks on and go to sleep so you wake up to healthy looking feet. A sandal season must-have.

A313

This Vitamin A cream is beloved by French women for its ability to serve as a retinol for plumping fine lines and makes skin look fresh. I’ll admit, I didn’t like it much at first but I’m quite sure they have reformulated it to make it less sticky/tacky. Now I can’t live without it or travel with out it. I use it almost every night and like to layer it underneath my favorite night cream.

At CityPharma, this product is going to be found behind the cashier’s counter though so be sure to ask for it as you check out. At some other French pharmacies I have found it on store shelves, however.

Klorane Dry Shampoo with Oat Milk

My favorite dry shampoo for over five years. This does such a good job of soaking up oil, giving hair texture and volume at the root. It’s not overly fragrant or powder-y, either.

I buy full sizes and the mini travel sizes whenever I visit the pharmacy in France. I’ve lost count of how many dozens of bottles I’ve gone through.

Avene Thermal Spring Water

This spray soothes and softens skin and is amazing for those with sensitive skin. It’ll provide antioxidant protection and overall I just find it so comforting to apply. Pro tip: buy the minis to have in your purse and carry on. The mist is particularly lovely to spray on hot days!

I always have the minis on hand in my purse in the summer as it is a life saver when waiting for the subway on a hot day!

Erborian BB Cream

The very best BB Cream that I am obsessed with and always stock up on at CityPharma because the price can’t be beat. They also have mini sizes at the pharmacy which I love for travel.

And they have a BB Eye Cream which is so good for dark circles under the eyes! It isn’t carried in the U.S. so worth grabbing while in Paris.

Erborian CC Red Correct Cream

While you’re shopping the brand, don’t miss their CC Red Correct cream as well. 

Erborian Centella Moisturizer

This soothing moisturizer provides a good drink to your skin. It’s soothing and hydrating and perfectly portable.

Best French Pharmacy Sunscreens to Buy

If there’s one category worth prioritizing at a French pharmacy, it’s SPF. European sunscreens use newer-generation filters that often feel lighter, more elegant and more cosmetically wearable than U.S. formulas — especially when it comes to UVA protection and invisible finishes.

La Roche-Posay Anthelios UVMune 400 Invisible Fluid

This is the sunscreen to buy in France right now. It’s gone viral for good reason — the formula uses one of the newest UVA filters (Mexoryl 400) to protect against ultra-long UVA rays, which are linked to premature aging and pigmentation.
The texture is incredibly fluid, sinks in instantly and leaves zero white cast, making it ideal under makeup or for everyday wear. If you buy just one SPF in Paris, make it this.

Avène Very High Protection Fluid SPF

Avène’s sunscreens are a go-to for sensitive skin, and this fluid version is particularly elegant. It’s lightweight, soothing and layers beautifully without pilling — a great option if your skin tends to react to stronger formulas. It’s also one I often recommend if you want something a bit more understated and calming.

SVR Sun Secure Blur SPF (a TikTok Favorite)

While lesser known in the U.S., SVR is having a major moment in Europe — and this sunscreen is why. The texture is completely unique: a mousse-like, blurring formula that feels more like a primer than a traditional SPF. It smooths the look of pores, mattifies slightly and wears beautifully on its own or under makeup. If you’re someone who hates the feel of sunscreen, this is the one to try.

Biafine Cream

This emulsion cream is excellent on scrapes, cuts and for burn care. Apply it after any sun burns and you’ll be glad you did!

Homeoplasmine

Another great do-it-all kind of balm. I like to use it on cuts and scrapes and as an intense lip balm before bed.

If You’re Short on Time, Buy These

• Embryolisse Lait-Crème Concentré
• Bioderma Sensibio Micellar Water
• Caudalie Beauty Elixir
• Klorane Dry Shampoo
• A313 Vitamin A Cream
• French pharmacy SPF (La Roche-Posay UVMune 400)

CityPharma Shopping List

Get my handy checklist you can save to your phone to have in-store as you shop when you sign up HERE.

French Pharmacy FAQ

What is the best French pharmacy in Paris?

The most well-known French pharmacy in Paris is CityPharma, located in Saint-Germain-des-Prés. It’s widely considered the best for both selection and pricing, with multiple floors dedicated to skincare, haircare, wellness and beauty.

Here you’ll find nearly every major French pharmacy brand here – often at significantly discounted prices compared to other pharmacies in the city. It can be busy and a bit overwhelming, but it’s absolutely worth a visit if you want access to the widest assortment all in one place.

I also really like Pharmacie Monge in the 5th arrondissement. They carry brands like Clarins and Sisley Paris that other pharmacies don’t carry.

Is CityPharma cheaper than other pharmacies?

Yes, CityPharma is known for having some of the most competitive prices in Paris. Because of its high volume, it’s able to offer lower prices on many cult-favorite French pharmacy products compared to smaller neighborhood pharmacies.

That said, prices can vary slightly across the city, but if you’re looking to stock up, CityPharma is generally the best place to do so.

What brands are only available in France?

While many French pharmacy brands are now available in the U.S., you’ll still find better selection, exclusive products and better pricing in France.

Brands like Embryolisse, Nuxe, Caudalie, Bioderma, Avène, La Roche-Posay and Klorane are all widely available, but certain formulas, product extensions and travel sizes are often only sold in France or Europe.

You’ll also occasionally find newer or niche French brands that haven’t made their way stateside yet.

Can you get a VAT refund at CityPharma?

Yes – if you spend above the minimum threshold, you can request VAT refund paperwork at checkout. Be sure to bring your passport with you, as it’s required to process the refund.

The staff will provide you with the necessary forms to complete at the airport before departing the EU, allowing you to receive a portion of the taxes back on your purchases.

What skincare should I buy in Paris?

If you’re shopping at a French pharmacy for the first time, focus on a mix of cult favorites and products that are harder to find in the U.S.

Some of the most popular buys include Embryolisse Lait-Crème Concentré, Bioderma Sensibio Micellar Water, Caudalie Beauty Elixir, La Roche-Posay Cicaplast Baume B5, Klorane Dry Shampoo and A313 vitamin A cream. French sunscreens are also worth prioritizing, as European formulas tend to be more advanced and cosmetically elegant than what’s available in the U.S.

. . .

Don’t miss more of the best French skin care products I love as well if you’re looking for more inspiration. And do note that if you’re looking to buy Biologique Recherche, this brand is not sold at the French pharmacies. You will need to buy it at one of their boutiques. 

There are of course plenty of places to shop for beauty products that I send to En Route to Rêverie clients heading to Paris. We also have connections with personal shopping appointments in Paris if that’s of interest and are connected to a variety of the best luxury stores in Paris.

Want to step inside CityPharma with me further? Check out this TikTok video.

Find this post helpful? Let me know in the comments below!

Planning a trip to Paris? Through En Route to Rêverie, we offer personalized hotel bookings, insider recommendations and curated itineraries across France – including the very best beauty and shopping experiences.

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