City Phama is a beauty lovers dream.  Yes, I can call it a store, a pharmacy, but oh it is so much more.  I am currently going through a beauty withdraw since many of the items I purchased last summer from City Pharm in Paris are now practically empty.  So it is my emptying makeup bag that caused me to look at my summer photos from Paris and it is with much joy that I a recall my visit.

Located in Saint Germain, City Pharma is where fashion and beauty insiders from all over the world gather to purchase their must-have beauty items. There is always a flurry of people at the corner of the store and if you happen to visit I highly recommend taking the beautiful walk down Rue Bonaparte (Bonaparte Street) for your visit.

Walking through the doors immediately introduces you to the charged atmosphere inside.  Here women carrying baskets filled to the brim of lotions, boxes of skincare products, vitamins and brushes are quickly hurrying about while checking off lists on paper, iPads and mobile phones to ensure they pick up of every essential beauty item. Really, the mood is frantic with many people rushing around as if the store is about to close in a few moments or if they will miss a connecting flight.

This excitement comes from the great selection and the affordable affordable prices not seen at other French pharmacies.  The store also carries many two for one deals so when come to shop you can always be greeted by a nice surprise.

The service is also impeccable.  Staff are dressed in pristine White lab coats and are knowledgeable and patient.  During one visit I actually had a face cream in my basket that I wanted to try and upon asking a staff member if I should buy it she firmly responded with a firm “no” saying that I shouldn’t purchase a product that isn’t made for my skin just because I read about it in a magazine.  While she was abrupt I appreciated the honesty and the experienced reinforced my love for this special place.

More importantly I found some wonderful buys and here are my top five beauty picks from City Phama.

1. Bioderma Sensibio Micellar Water

When I visited my Dermatologist in Paris she recommended Micellar Water to clean my face and to remove makeup.  Micellar Water may be a new product in the United States but French women learn to use this product as very young children.  I  have sensitive skin that gets red very easily; and when I use it gently removes my makeup.  It also never leaves my face tight or dry.  I am so addicted I carry a little sample size around with me in case I ever need a touch up.

2. Eau Thermale Avene Cleanance Masque

I heard so much about this product it was on the top of my beauty list. This mask cleans clogged pores and is good for oily skin.  I use it once a week all over my face for about 10 minutes to refresh and recharge my skin.  It is especially good to remove blackheads from the noise and chin.

3. Uriage Roseliane Anti-Redness Cream

This cream is a perfect way to avoid red and irritated skin. Just a little dab every evening, is calming and soothing on my face. It is also non-greasy and hydrating which is good to use when the weather in changing and skin is readjusting to the weather.

4. Embryolisse Lait-Creme Concentre

A beauty model secret that has been famous since 1950, this unscented cream is a favorite of Karlie Kloss at New York Fashion Week and was rumored to be Jane Birkin’s cream of choice. The formula is simple, Paraben-free, and has a very subtle scent.  Light to the touch, this creme retains water in the skin and makes you feel that you are not wearing anything at all. I especially like it because I can put it on in the morning and my skin drinks it in quickly leaving a perfect finish for my makeup.

5. Bioderma Atoderm Stick

Since I am a Bioderma fan I had to try to Atoderm Stick especially with the buy 2 get one free package. The Shea Butter formula really makes my chapped lips feel comforted and is great for touch-ups at work.

City Pharma has many other wonderful products and like the Eiffel Tower or the Mona Lisa really is a must-stop on your next trip to Paris.