'The beauty industry's love for Bioderma is devoted to the point of slavishness. This no-frills pharmacy brand is adored for its super-gentle cleansers, sunscreens and moisturisers'
Last year I arrived in Paris for a big make-up launch and, before I'd even checked into my hotel, found myself in the local pharmacie stocking up on Bioderma skincare products. I wasn't the least bit surprised to bump into two other beauty editors, wheely suitcases also still in hand, emptying the same shelf.
The beauty industry's love for Bioderma is devoted to the point of slavishness. This no-frills pharmacy brand (the French are by far the best at these – see also Klorane, Avène, Vichy and La Roche-Posay) is adored for its super-gentle cleansers, sunscreens and moisturisers, formulated for even the most problematic skins. It's a testament to its quality that Bioderma is one of the few beauty ranges that consistently tempt journalists and world-class makeup artists to part with cash when so much is available to us for free (I've rarely attended a photo shoot or fashion show without spotting at least one of its products).
Previously unavailable in the UK, Bioderma will finally launch in our leading pharmacies throughout March and April, where you can expect to pay around a tenner for a seriously good bit of skincare. That joy aside, here are my other favourite skincare launches for spring.
Balance Me Skin Bright Hydrating Face Mist, £20, amarya.co.uk
My dehydrated skin loves this. An occasional spritz leaves me looking bright and refreshed.
Clarins Double Serum, £55, clarins.co.uk
A serum to both hydrate and moisturise, without confusing the two. It speaks my language.
Garnier Moisture Match, £5.99, boots.com
Five basic yet high-quality moisturisers, each clearly signposted for a specific skincare concern.
Origins Plantscription SPF 25 Anti-Ageing Cream, £46, johnlewis.com
It's hard to find this level of protection in such a non-greasy day cream.
Estée Lauder Advanced Night Repair Eye Serum, £45, esteelauder.co.uk
If you find the existing ANR eye cream too much, switch to this light, milky serum.
Bioderma, from £4.99, leading chemists from March
The beauty industry's best-kept secret goes mainstream. Excellent quality and value.