I’m Telling Everyone About the French Skin Care I Bought in Paris

Paris has been at the top of my travel list for as long as I can remember; I’ve dreamed of rendezvousing to the Eiffel Tower, Arc de Triomphe, and—of course—the French pharmacy. Though I don’t necessarily fantasize about my trips to Duane Reade, there’s something special about a Parisian drug store—and that something is its beauty selection. Let’s just say, I budgeted extra space in my suitcase for a skin care haul, and my pickups certainly did not disappoint. 

Since they’re too good to gatekeep, I spilled my six favorite French formulas below. And, while “Paris is always a good idea,” you can snag my picks on Amazon for as little as $10. Below, browse through life-changing formulas from Caudalie, L’Occitane en Provence, La Roche-Posay, and more, all for under $85. Ooh là là!    

Editor-Loved French Skin Care

Caudalie Vinoperfect Brightening Serum

After hearing the entire internet rave about the Caudalie Vinoperfect Brightening Serum, I made a beeline to grab it on my first day in Paris. As its name suggests, the luxe product brightens dark spots and dullness, thus leaving my complexion with a radiant finish. Though gentle and safe for sensitive skin (I can attest), the formula is 62 times more efficacious than vitamin C, according to Caudalie. I apply the serum to my face and neck both in the morning and evening before my moisturizer; after just a few short days, I’ve noticed a major improvement in my glow. 

Eau Thermale Avène Thermal Spring Water

Not to be dramatic, but I don’t know how I once lived without this Eau Thermale Avène Thermal Spring Water. Considering I doused myself in the skin-smoothing spray nearly 10 times on my plane trip home alone, it’s well worth its now-$10 cost. The fine mist instantly calms your complexion, leaving it soft, dewy, and revitalized. Plus, its refreshing feel is ideal for hot summer days (pro tip: I store mine in the fridge for an extra cool feel). I even use the spray on top of makeup throughout the day, since its lightweight formula never smudges my glam. 

L’Occitane en Provence Cleansing and Softening Almond Shower Oil

This L’Occitane en Provence shower oil instantly transports me to France, and at $29, it’s far cheaper than a plane ticket. Formulated with almond oil, the nourishing pick deeply hydrates my body as it cleanses. After using it for a week, my dry sensitive skin already feels baby smooth, which is ideal now that my legs are seeing the light of summer. Speaking of, the oil doubles as an incredible shaving companion since it lathers well and feels silky on my skin. I’m not the only superfan of the L’Occitane product; Shay Mitchell uses the transformative oil, too.    

For your best skin yet, run to Amazon to shop my favorite French products from just $10. 

Nuxe Huile Prodigieuse Radiant Dry Oil

Caudalie Beauty Elixir Face Mist

La Roche-Posay Anthelios Tinted Sunscreen