Essential French Beauty Products to Discover in Paris - Part 2

Essential French Beauty Products to Discover in Paris

Part 2

What Parisians Actually Buy (Beyond TikTok Trends)

As a seasoned makeup artist trained in Paris, I have spent over 15 years honing my skills in the beauty industry. In this article, I will highlight some lesser-known yet effective French beauty products that Parisians consistently choose, moving beyond the popular items often promoted on social media. In the first part of this series, I covered the viral favorites that are genuinely worth your investment. Now, let’s explore three hidden gems that you should consider bringing home from your Parisian adventure.

These products are not only easy to find but also truly deserving of a spot in your beauty routine.

The Underrated Pore-Perfecting Treatment

Bioderma Sébium Pore Refiner

Bioderma Sébium Pore Refiner is a smoothing treatment that effectively tightens pores, refines skin texture, and controls shine. Despite being overshadowed by Bioderma’s renowned micellar water, this product deserves more recognition.

Tailored for combination to oily skin, it visibly minimizes pores and enhances skin smoothness while reducing shine throughout the day. At a price of only 15€, it serves as an excellent base for makeup. Even without makeup, users will notice a significant improvement in skin appearance, resulting in a more refined and even complexion.

Price comparison:

• 🇫🇷 France: €13 – €15
• 🇺🇸 US: $25.99

If you want to try it before your trip or find yourself in need of more after returning home, you can purchase Bioderma Sébium Pore Refiner at a slightly higher price point.

The Beloved French Lip Balm

Nuxe Rêve de Miel Honey Lip Balm

While Nuxe Dry Body Oil frequently tops the charts of must-have products in Paris, the brand also offers an exceptional lip balm that deserves attention. The Nuxe Rêve de Miel Honey Lip Balm is a rich, nourishing treatment that provides a matte finish without the gloss.

Thick and reparative, this balm has a delightful scent and is more of a treatment than a typical cosmetic lip product. Although it may not complement lipsticks well (leading to potential bleeding), applying it at night guarantees soft, plump lips by morning. Many find themselves purchasing it once in Paris and continuing to buy it long after returning home.

Price comparison:

• 🇫🇷 France: €10 – €13
• 🇺🇸 US: $22

The Go-To Hair Essential

Klorane Dry Shampoo with Oat Milk

Shifting focus to hair care, Klorane’s Dry Shampoo is a staple in my kit. This lightweight formula refreshes hair while adding soft volume and texture. It absorbs excess oil, revitalizes hair, and imparts that effortlessly chic, slightly tousled look that epitomizes French style.

From a professional standpoint, I recommend opting for the version with loose powder that you squeeze out, as it offers better control than the aerosol variant. This product is perfect for those no-wash days and can also be applied at the roots for added lift and volume, contributing to that coveted ‘Parisian girl’ aesthetic.

Price comparison:

• 🇫🇷 France: €8–€10
• 🇺🇸 US: $25

Why These Products Are Worth Bringing Home

What unites these three products is their understated effectiveness. They are not flashy or trend-driven, and they often don’t make it onto the lists curated by influencers. Yet, they deliver results and are the types of items that users consistently finish.

Shopping in French pharmacies goes beyond merely checking off a trendy list; it’s about discovering those unexpected products that become indispensable once you’re back home.