Ever wondered which French Pharmacy brand is for you? Team member, Chelsey spent 15 minutes with the most popular brands in the category to find out their unique differences, along with asking their experts what products to try, if you were to only try one. Watch the two-hour marathon or scroll for the cliff notes – it’s up to you!
Don’t forget to let us know which one is your favourite in the comments or on social via @escentual on Twitter, Facebook or Instagram…
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Vichy
Vichy skincare was founded by Doctor Haller back in 1931; making them 90 years old! He studied and researched the thermal water in their spa all those years ago and discovered that it’s enriched 15 key minerals that boost cell renewal and strengthen skin.
Vichy is different from all of the other French Pharmacy brands because of its medical background, and its water – which has a high efficacy of antioxidants. 16 scientific papers are behind this water, and it’s proven to aid skin health.
The icon: Vichy Mineral 89
This daily serum contains 89% of that volcanic water, making it the ultimate protector. Instantly cooling, it’s like a glass of water for the skin. Mineral 89 is also packed with hyaluronic acid naturally derived from wheat. And it’s the only hyaluronic acid serum to be accredited by the British Skin Foundation of dermatology too!
La Roche-Posay
La Roche-Posay are all about a better life for sensitive skin. Their main difference is their research behind every product and commitment to the sensitive skin of all ages since the early 1900s. La Roche-Posay now works with over 90,000 dermatologists worldwide. Like Vichy, their unique Thermal spring water is unique to every one of their products. It’s been used since 1975; it’s rich in selenium, which makes it great from protecting against oxidative stress.
The icon: La Roche-Posay Hyalu B5 Hyaluronic Acid Serum
Hyalu B5 is a plumping daily serum that hydrates and protects your skin’s barrier. It’s known as an icon, as it keeps dry skin soft and wrinkles at bay – particularly forehead lines and crows feet! The soothing b5 ingredient works well when you use retinol or any other products with exfoliating properties.
Eucerin
Eucerin’s heritage isn’t french; it’s actually a German family brand owned by Beiersdorf. Its heritage and commitment to innovation is their key difference. In 2020, the brand were due to celebrate their 120th birthday. Eucerin were the first brand to patent an emulsion, known now as an emollient; the first brand to have a hyaluronic acid skincare range, and the first brand to put moisturising factors into skincare.
The icon: Eucerin Aquaphor
It’s been around for 100 years. Meghan Markle wore it on her wedding day, Beyonce wears it to bed. This critically acclaimed essential is designed to regenerate, repair, and lock in moisture, stopping skin cracking. It contains only 7 ingredients and no preservatives, making it extra kind for sensitive skin. Glycerin, panthenol and bisabolol team up together to soothe, moisture and protect even the most fragile skin types.
Bioderma
Bioderma was founded back in 1977, and its unique point of difference its study around the skin and our environment. All of their skincare patents and technologies are inspired by our own skin’s biology, so when you’re using Bioderma, you’re always replenishing and never overloading your skin.
The icon: Sensibio H20
One product that every Bioderma fan has in their collection is the Senisibio h20 micellar water. Unlike many on the market, this micellar water is the same ph level as your skin so that it won’t irritate your skin and eyes. The micelles act like a gentle magnet, drawing out impurities without interfering with the skin’s barrier.
Mustela
Mustela is one of our favourite baby brands in the French Pharmacy category. A committed French family brand since the 1950s, this natural origin skincare brand is loved by the likes of Carrie Bradshaw and Rachel from friends (yes, you may have spotted them on the TV). What’s incredible about Mustela is the fact that it’s suitable to use from birth!
The icon: Mustela Gentle Cleansing Gel for Normal Skin
Parents and children can use the Cleansing Gel; its ultra-gentle formula cleanses the hair, face and body whilst respecting the skin’s barrier function – meaning your skin won’t be aggravated, only protected day after day.
Uriage
Uriage Thermal Water has travelled through the French alps for over 2000 years, and if that doesn’t sound special enough, the water takes 75 years to pass through the rocks; collecting vitamins and minerals to help improve your skin. This active water is isotonic, like Lucozade gives your body energy, so does every product in the Uriage range – but it will never irritate or aggravate.
The icon: Uriage Eau Thermale Water Spray
Uriage Thermal Water was discovered by the Romans 2000 years ago, and still to this day, it’s a modern-day icon that doesn’t show any signs of slowing down. Rich in salts and trace elements, its replenishing water is a cult-favourite and one of the highest active thermal waters with 11g of minerals per litre – impressive!
Avene
Avene has been around for over 270 years; its incredible thermal water has over 150 clinical studies to prove its efficacy. Its Hydrotherapy Centre in the heart of Avene is well known for treating chronic atopic skin concerns. Avene shot to stardom in 1871 when the Thermal Spring Water was shipped to the burn victims of the Great Chicago Fire, and from then on, Avene’s healing abilities became global news.
The icon: Avene Cleanance Comedomed Anti-Blemishes Concentrate
Comedomed is an icon because the clinical studies report clear skin in seven days. This daily moisturiser not only helps clear skin, but it also prevents blemishes from forming with the patent, Comedoclastin (exclusive to Avene). The formula is actually 25% comedoclastin and 65% thermal water, making this cream perfect for sensitive skin types prone to spots or maskne.
Klorane
For over 50 years, Klorane has taken inspiration from nature to create a hair care line that respects our planet. Their goal is to provide 100% eco-conceived products. For the past 20 years, they have supported the Klorane Botanical Foundation; a charity that works to improve education and awareness of these topics worldwide.
The icon: Klorane Quinine
This popular hair strengthening range is naturally rich in quinine, a patented molecule that fortifies hair. Perfect for locks that a limp and lifeless, Quinine boosts hair’s vitality – it’s the ideal option for those experiencing hair loss or thinning hair.
5 Reasons To Try The Klorane Quinine Keratin Fortifying Spray
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