Shop French Skincare Without Leaving Your Home
Spot Corrector Feedback
Tester Feedback:
"A friend recommended this spot corrector, and I’m glad she did," says Blackman. "It’s a no-frills product I apply before bed (or during WFH days) when dealing with an active blemish. I feel its drying effect, and it helps me resist picking at the zit."
Key Ingredients:
- Sulfur 10%
- Glycolic acid
- Niacinamide
Who It’s For: People with whiteheads
Fragrance-Free: Yes
Best for Frizz: Phyto Phytodéfrisant Botanical Smoothing Balm
Why It’s Worth It:
Phyto’s Phytodéfrisant Botanical Smoothing Balm is ideal for prepping hair before using a blow-dryer. Lightweight and non-greasy, it softens and smooths hair, protecting it from the frizz-inducing effects of heat and humidity. The balm features plant-based ingredients like hydrating marshmallow extract, cuticle-sealing guar gum, and softening extracts such as ferula, sage, horseradish, and matricaria. Apply to wet or damp hair and use a wide-tooth comb or fingers to distribute before blow-drying.
Key Ingredients:
- Marshmallow extract
- Guar gum
- Ferula extract
- Sage extract
- Horseradish extract
- Matricaria extract
Who It’s For: People using heat on their hair
Fragrance-Free: Yes
Frequently Asked Questions
Why do Americans like French pharmacy products?
American admiration for French pharmacy products is partly due to the allure of French beauty and the exotic appeal of products unavailable in the U.S. Some believe these products may hold the secrets to French beauty.
Are French pharmacy products better than American ones?
While French pharmacy products aren’t inherently superior, they often have sophisticated formulations backed by robust dermatological research. Brands like La Roche-Posay and Avène offer effective and pleasant-to-use products.
Meet the Experts
- Hadley King, MD, New York City
- Mona Gohara, MD, Connecticut
- Fatima Fahs, MD, Michigan
- Divya Shokeen, MD, California
- Marina Peredo, MD, New York City
- Noah Levit, MD, Connecticut
- Asmi Berry, DO, Los Angeles
- Viktoryia Kazlouskaya, MD, New York City
- Nazanin Saedi, MD, Philadelphia
How We Test and Review Products
Allure editors review products thoroughly, considering ingredients and brand claims. They consult experts in dermatology, cosmetic chemistry, and medicine to evaluate product effectiveness, backed by scientific research when possible.

