Uncover the city’s best-kept beauty secrets.
When it comes to beauty shopping, Paris is an unparalleled paradise. The City of Lights offers a treasure trove of makeup and cosmetics, perfect for achieving that effortless French look. From iconic department stores to quaint local boutiques nestled along cobblestone alleys, beauty shopping in Paris transcends the ordinary, elevating it to a captivating experience.
If you’re planning a visit to Paris and are keen to delve into its beauty scene, prepare for a colorful adventure. Below, we’ve curated a shopping guide spanning from legacy brands to exclusive local names and (mais bien sur) the essential French pharmacy finds.
Le Bon Marché
Le Bon Marché, the very oldest of Paris’s grand department stores, is the ultimate destination for beauty enthusiasts. The beauty department spans the ground and first floors, featuring haute parfumerie, holistic rituals, high-tech beauty gadgets, and makeup for just about every style and preference.
The ground floor houses collections from top skincare and fragrance brands, while the first floor’s Atelier Beauté showcases leading makeup brands alongside exclusive finds from around the globe. Le Bon Marché also highlights small local brands and emerging labels dedicated to responsible beauty, offering a curated selection of eco-friendly and innovative products.
Santa Maria Novella
Santa Maria Novella is not just the oldest apothecary in the world but a timeless emblem of heritage and craftsmanship in the realm of wellness and beauty. Founded in 1542 in the heart of Florence, this historic pharmacy crafted herbal remedies and potions for a monastery’s infirmary. Many of the original concoctions are still available on the shelves today, including at the boutique in Paris, which brings a slice of Florence’s revered heritage to the heart of the French capital.
The Parisian outpost embodies the same dedication to craftsmanship and tradition in its array of beauty and wellness products. Located on the charming Rue Saint-Honoré, the boutique is beautifully appointed, mirroring the historical ambiance of its Florentine counterpart with elegant interiors that showcase its artisanal products. Visitors can explore a diverse range of items that have stood the test of time, from handcrafted perfumes and skincare to herbal remedies, all made with traditional techniques passed down through (literal) centuries.
Samaritaine
Samaritaine, reopened in 2021 just in time for its 151st anniversary, is located in the first arrondissement near the Pont-Neuf metro station. This historic store, now owned by LVMH, features a stunning blend of Art Nouveau and Art Deco architecture, providing a luxurious backdrop for its offerings. The beauty hall is designed to offer an immersive and luxurious shopping experience, showcasing an exclusive selection of high-end brands and products. What makes Samaritaine’s beauty section particularly special is its emphasis on personalized service and cutting-edge beauty technology. Shoppers can enjoy bespoke skincare consultations, try out the latest beauty gadgets, and experience treatments in elegantly designed beauty rooms.
Printemps
Printemps, another iconic Parisian department store, has been a pioneer in luxury retail since its founding in 1865. Beyond its architectural grandeur, Printemps offers an unparalleled shopping experience. The beauty department is a haven for skincare and cosmetic enthusiasts, featuring an array of high-end brands like Chanel, Dior, and Hermès. Visitors can indulge in bespoke treatments at the La Prairie Spa, celebrated for its tranquil atmosphere and opulent skincare treatments, or the Facestellar beauty institute, which offers cutting-edge, non-invasive skin rejuvenation treatments.
Oh My Cream!
Founded by Juliette Levy, Oh My Cream is a beauty concept store dedicated to clean, alternative beauty. The space curates a tight selection of clean brands, offering straightforward advice and expert listening to help you find the best skincare solutions. Its in-house brand, Oh My Cream Skincare, is designed to give your skin exactly what it needs with essential daily routines like double cleansing, gentle exfoliation, and nourishing oils. With boutiques across Paris and an online shop to replenish your empties, Oh My Cream makes it easy to switch to a clean beauty routine that respects both your skin and the environment.
