Exploring Monoprix: A Beauty Lover's Guide to Parisian Shopping

Exploring Monoprix: A Beauty Lover's Guide to Parisian Shopping

For anyone visiting Paris, the allure of French pharmacies is well-known, but there's another treasure trove of beauty products that often gets overlooked: Monoprix.

Combining elements of a department store, supermarket, and beauty haven, Monoprix is a go-to destination for those seeking affordable French beauty products. As a professional makeup artist residing in Paris, I frequently visit to refresh my kit, discover new launches, and recommend items to clients during my beauty shopping tours.

What’s even better? You can find exceptional French beauty products without breaking the bank.

Why Choose Monoprix?

Monoprix serves as the French equivalent of Target, making it your ultimate stop for a variety of needs!

Here, you’ll encounter:

• Unique French makeup brands that might not be available at home
• Budget-friendly skincare options
• Haircare favorites among Parisians
• Stylish accessories
• Seasonal beauty launches
• Selected French pharmacy staples

Unlike tourist-centric shops, Monoprix offers locally priced products, making it one of the best places to snag authentic French beauty items without inflated costs.

Notable Makeup Brands to Seek Out

Bourjois

Bourjois stands out as one of France’s oldest and most beloved makeup brands, having been established in the 19th century. Known for its fun and affordable cosmetics, Bourjois is synonymous with effortless, everyday beauty.

I particularly recommend:

• Their ‘Rouge Velvet’ lipstick range
• TWIST’MATIC KAJAL Eyeliner
• Iconic Little Round Pot Blushes
• Twist Up Mascara

These products are designed for easy wear and blending, perfect for that quintessential French makeup aesthetic.

L’Oréal Paris

While L’Oréal is a global brand, Monoprix often showcases products, shades, and new launches that you may not find elsewhere until later.

If you’re a fan, it’s an excellent opportunity to stock up while in Paris.

Rouge Baiser

This historic French brand, though not available in every Monoprix, is a delightful find when you come across it. Rouge Baiser, which translates to ‘red kiss’ in French, is renowned for pioneering long-lasting lipsticks since its inception in 1927. It’s definitely worth picking up a lipstick from this classic line!

International Brands Worth Your Attention

While not French, several other brands available at Monoprix are also noteworthy:

• Korres – a Greek brand known for skincare, perfumes, and makeup
• Deborah Milano – a charming Italian cosmetics line

Don’t Miss the Haircare Aisle

French women typically prefer healthy, naturally styled hair, and Monoprix offers an impressive selection of haircare products.

Look for:

• Klorane Dry Shampoo with Oat Milk
• Garnier Ultra Doux hair masks
• Dessange Paris haircare
• René Furterer products (found in larger stores)

Many of these items are more affordable in France than abroad.

Affordable Skincare Gems

What I appreciate about Monoprix is the ability to curate a fantastic skincare routine without overspending. Larger Monoprix locations often feature a ‘Parapharmacie’ section stocked with popular French skincare brands.

Keep an eye out for:

• Embryolisse moisturizers
• Nuxe lip care
• La Rosée skincare
• La Provençale Bio
• Cattier clay masks
• Bioderma micellar water (available in select locations)
• A variety of sunscreens

Don’t forget to look for cute gift or travel sets; they make for excellent presents!

Beauty Accessories to Consider

While many shoppers focus solely on skincare and makeup, I encourage clients to explore the accessories as well. Some hidden treasures include:

• French hair clips and claw clips
• Cosmetic bags
• Makeup brushes
• Tweezers
• Chic toiletry cases

These items are not only practical but also stylish and often more budget-friendly than similar products found elsewhere.

Items to Skip

Not everything is worth packing in your suitcase. Generally, I advise skipping:

• Trend-driven novelty items
• Large shampoo bottles (they can be cumbersome to travel with)
• Brands like Nyx or Maybelline that you can find at home for the same price
• Tourist souvenir beauty sets that lack value

Instead, reserve your luggage space for products that are truly unique to France.

Expert Shopping Tips

Here are some tips I share with clients during my guided shopping tours:

• Opt for larger Monoprix stores, as they typically have a better beauty selection. My favorites include those at Champs Elysees and Gare Montparnasse (the latter tends to be less crowded).
• Check end displays for limited edition collections and seasonal products.
• Compare prices with nearby pharmacies; you may find better deals.
• Don’t overlook the travel-size section, which is ideal for sampling new products.
• If you find something you love, don’t assume it will be available at another Monoprix; product offerings can differ by neighborhood.

Shop Like a Local

One of the biggest hurdles for visitors is discerning which beauty products are genuinely worth their investment. This is precisely why I created my Paris Beauty Shopping Tours.

As a professional makeup artist, I guide you through discovering products I truly recommend, explain the uniqueness of French beauty, and help you avoid overspending on items that don’t meet expectations.

Whether you’re in search of skincare, makeup, haircare, or hidden beauty boutiques, I’ll assist you in shopping confidently, ensuring you leave Paris with products you will actually use.

If you’re interested in exploring more natural cosmetics and learning about their fascinating histories, consider joining my Guided Marie Antoinette Shopping Tour.