If you’re a regular Escentual shopper, you’ve likely heard the term ‘French Pharmacy’ repeatedly. You may have even bought some of the products, but do you actually know what it is? Apart from the obvious fact that it originated in France, many people still have a lot of unanswered questions when it comes to this haven of holy grail skincare. But not anymore – I have the answers you’re looking for.

Whether the question on your mind is, ‘What is French Pharmacy?’ or ‘Why does everyone rave about it?’, I have the answer. Here’s everything you need to know about French Pharmacy, starting at the beginning, plus the icons you need to try…

#1 French Pharmacy is French Skincare

‘French Pharmacy’ is used to describe a category of specialist French skincare that was originally only available in many pharmacies around France. Affordable and highly effective, these clinically-proven formulas cater for a variety of skin types and conditions and are now highly sought after all over the world.

#2 Escentual Put French Pharmacy on the Map

Escentual was one the first retailers to make French Pharmacy products officially available to buy in the UK. Prior to that, French skincare fans had to make regular mini-breaks to France to stock up!

Discover all the French Pharmacy brands we stock HERE.

#3 Celebrities Love Embryolisse

Some of Embryolisse Lait-Creme Concentre‘s famous fans include none other than Khloe Kardashian, Karlie Kloss and Elle Macpherson. It doesn’t stop at celebs, either, makeup artists, adore it too. There’s even one Embryolisse sold every 20 seconds in the UK alone. So, it’s not surprising this multi-tasking hydrator is a favourite amongst makeup artists and skincare enthusiasts. And why is simple: it’s French Pharmacy’s multi-tasking hero. It’s used as a moisturiser, overnight face mask, after sun, cleanser – the list goes on and on!

#4 Many French Pharmacy Products Are Multi-Purpose

It may be budget skincare, but even the royals use it! The Duchess of Sussex, Meghan Markle, used Eucerin Aquaphor Soothing Skin Balm on her wedding day but not as the barrier cream it’s intended to be. No, the princess wore it as a highlighter on the high points of her face for a dewy glow. Fans also include Selena Gomez and Emily Ratajkowski!

#5 Dermatologists Recommend French Pharmacy

Not only is Eucerin Aquaphor popular amongst many A-list celebs, it’s also rated very highly by doctors and dermatologists. Is it down to its effectiveness in protecting, conditioning and soothing the skin thanks to its minimal number of ingredients and low potential to irritate.

#6 French Pharmacy Has Many Icons

Nuxe Huile Prodigieuse Multi-Purpose Dry Oil is the number one dry oil in France. One of the first products to be launched by the brand back in 1991 it can be used in several ways, from nourishing your hair’s dry ends to moisturising your body and face. You can even mix it with foundation to give it a more fluid texture and dewy finish.

Want to know more? Read our full review on each Nuxe Dry Oil and find out how they can benefit you here.

#7 French Skincare is Perfect for Sensitive Skin

A saviour for reactive skin, Avene’s Skin Recovery Cream is one of their most talked about products, and fans include Gwyneth Paltrow and Hayley Bieber.

This comforting moisturiser has a calming, fragrance-free formula and is a staple for those who suffer from redness, dry patches and irritation caused by sensitivity. It’s a must-have for skin that insists on misbehaving!

#8 A Thermal Water Spray is Sold Worldwide Every 2 Seconds

French skincare is serious skincare. French Pharmacy royalty, Avene is recommended across the globe by dermatologists, and in France, it has a hydrotherapy centre dedicated to dermatology – including the treatment of eczema. They’re also famed for their Avene Thermal Spring Water, which helps to soothe, calm and hydrate skin. One spray is sold every two seconds worldwide!

#9 Coco Chanel Was a French Skincare Fan

French Icon, Coco Chanel, used to visit the Uriage Thermal Centre, a thermal spa dedicated to treating skin conditions. You might not be able to make it to the spa in France, but you can benefit from the water’s exceptionally rich, healing benefits in the form of the Uriage Eau Thermale Water Spray. With 6 bottles sold every minute all over the world, it’s a popular French Pharmacy staple.

#10 Escentual Loves French Pharmacy!

And last but certainly not least, you need to know about Escenutal’s French Pharmacy events! As the home to French Pharmacy skincare in the UK, we offer regular ⅓ off promotions so that you can stock up on all your favourites, and the latest products to hit the shelves in French pharmacies!

Discover More:

• Voted By You: 5-Star French Pharmacy Skincare