I know many tourists flock to Sephora to stock up on their cosmetics, but as you know, Sephora is one of the most over-priced stores in France (though they have many brands that are not available in other shops). And not to mention, American brands (such as Dr. Brandt, Bare Escentuals, etc) are REALLY over-priced here that you should just get it online. But I do admit going into Sephora is just like being in Heaven… and I’ve heard that Sephora will be opening in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia this year. So keep an eye on that..
Ok back to the cheaper options in Paris.
#1. Pharmacie FOUHETY
My favourite store (and probably the cheapest in Paris)
Address : 26 rue du Four 75006 Paris
Metro : Saint-Germain de Pres (Line 4) Take exit 2, when you come up, you’ll see BNP PARIBAS (a bank), turn left and just walk down the street. You’ll pass a jewelry shop called “Agatha” on your left too. The pharmacy is the corner shop opposite BGBC.
Opening Hours : Monday to Saturdays till 8p.m
Advice : Grab whatever you are looking for and pay. Avoid Saturdays (loads of people)
Brands offered : Caudalie, Weleda, Nuxe, Avène, La roche Posay, Galénic, Décléor, Aderma, Bioderma, Uriage, Talika, SkinCeuticals, Vichy, etc etc (which is much more expensive than Sephora)
#2. Online Beauty Outlet Stores
France is really popular for their “vente-privee”. The concept is basically an online factory-outlet store where they sell branded stuff for a huge discount. However, the downside to it is that it’s only in French and you need to have a French address.
My favourite vente-privee website for skin care products :
http://www.beauteprivee.fr
http://www.venteprivee.fr (not only cosmetics, but also clothes, etc.. one of the most popular ones, and they’ve opened up to UK,Italy,Spain citizens)
http://www.beautechic.com
If you ever need an invitation to sign up for these websites (you need to be recommended) , go ahead and use my e-mail : jonathan831@gmail.com
# 3. Parashop
Website : Parashop
They aren’t the cheapest around, but they have many stores which makes them easy to find around in Paris (if you don’t have the time). And they have a lot of French brands here as well. Try going during the sales period (July and January), they do have very good deals during that time.
Website : http://www.parashop.com
# Nocibe, Marrionaud, Sephora
All three are also major perfume/cosmetic retail shops in Paris, and you can find them almost anywhere! However, like Sephora, they tend to be quite pricey as well. My advice is also to go during the sales period (July and January), and they have very good deals as well.
Website : http://www.nocibe.fr , http://www.marionnaud.fr/ , http://www.sephora.fr
For Nocibe : Ask for a member card, for 200 euros spent = 10 euros reduction.
For Marionnaud : Ask for a member card, for 150 euros spent = 7.50 euros reduction
For Sephora : Ask for a member card, for 150 euros spent = 10 % discount voucher (can be used for every item bought throughout the day)
Who’s been talking lately ?