French pharmacies have long been lauded, loved and mythologized into infinity, but British pharmacies are an underrated beauty wonderland that warrant a visit too. London, in particular, is home to big drugstores like Boots and Superdrug, but also places like John Croyden & Bell where you can score some great gems. Here are some British pharmacy buys I picked up on a recent trip to London.
Euthymol Original Toothpaste
The packaging got me first with its apothecary-style logo and metal tube. Fluoride-free, the scent (ultra-strong) and the taste (like a super-intense peppermint gum) takes some time getting used to, but the stuff is worth it.
Buy it at: John Croyden & Bell
B. Clean Sparkling Water Cleanser
B. Skincare is a four-year-old, fairly inexpensive beauty line that’s exclusive to Superdrugs. This water cleanser, a newer launch, is a nod to the jelly texture trend from South Korea with the gel-like cleanser that transforms into water upon contact with the skin.
Buy it at: Superdrugs
Kent Black Bristle Brush
If you can’t afford a Mason Pearson but want a good, well-made hair brush that boasts a similar lineage, Kent offers more wallet-friendly options like this soft bristle brush. Like Mason Pearson, Kent has been in the business of brushes since 1777. Its long-standing history and craftsmanship have also earned the company multiple Royal Warrants.
Buy it at: John Croyden & Bell
Droyt Original Glycerine Soap
This glycerin soap is made by a privately owned company in England that’s been in the business of making soaps since 1938. They make old-school transparent bars that are heavily fragranced with eau de cologne (avoid if you’re into subtle florals) and packaged with old-timey typography.
Buy it at: John Croyden & Bell
Superdrugs Coconut and Argan Oil
This multi-purpose balm packs a one-two punch with coconut and argan oil. It’s a solid that melts into an oil with the warmth of your fingers and you can use it on your skin, hair or cuticles. The compact size makes it easy to tote around and is perfect for the colder months.
Buy it at: Superdrugs