From Madrid with love (and retinal). Five pharmacy finds changing my routine.
Living in Europe as an adult hits different. But living in Spain as a skincare enthusiast? That’s next-level. I’ve long devoured “French Pharmacy Must-Haves” lists, shopped the aisles on every trip abroad, and always left with bags of way too many products. Sadly, I never developed the fierce loyalty those editors and experts suggested. Four months into my Madrid residency, though, I can say it: I’ve already got a handful of die-hard pharmacy favorites.
I’m starting slow. Just five products, all picked up in local Madrid pharmacies (and yes, easily found on Amazon here, too). Think of it as a tight edit: cleanser, toner, serum, moisturizer, and a nighttime treatment. Sunscreen deserves its own dedicated post, so I’ll leave that for later. Let’s go!
Bepanthenol Derma Gentle Face Cleanser
Best known for its post-tattoo ointment, Bepanthenol has expanded into facial care, and this cleanser is quite the star. If your skin runs dry, sensitive, or prone to redness, this gel wash is a dream. It reminds me of iS Clinical’s Cleansing Complexbut one with an even more gentle hand.
The hero is Dexpanthenol, a provitamin that converts into vitamin B5 once applied to skin. It supports barrier repair, boosts hydration, and helps calm inflammation. The formula is fragrance-free, has a skin-friendly pH of 5.5, and a silky gel texture that foams beautifully. 20 € / 200 ml
Rilastil Acnestil Micropeeling
The name sounds intense and I don’t have acne, so I hesitated. Until the rave reviews wore me down. And I’m glad they did. This might be one of the best acid toners I’ve used. It’s brilliant for those prone to breakouts, but equally effective if you just want brighter, smoother skin and fewer clogged pores.
The formula pairs Mandelic and Salicylic Acids (AHA + BHA) with Sodium Hyaluronate, Niacinamide, and Potassium Azeloyl Diglycinate, an azelaic acid derivative that helps fade stubborn hyperpigmentation. Swipe on with a cotton pad once or twice a day and I promise, your skin will start glowing within a couple of weeks. 16 € / 100 ml
ISDIN Salicylic Renewal
ISDIN in Spain vs. ISDIN in the U.S.? Entirely different universes. The brand’s European sunscreens get all the hype (rightfully so), but the skincare deserves equal attention. Case in point: this serum. Designed for combination-to-oily skin types, Salicylic Renewal is equal parts anti-imperfection and anti-aging.
The lightweight gel-serum blends AHA, BHA, and PHA exfoliants with antioxidants to help counter UV damage. Bonus: it’s oil-free, so you get smooth, refined skin that stays calm and radiant without a midday shine. Works well morning or night, and layers seamlessly under sunscreen. 45 € / 30 ml
La Roche-Posay Effeclar AZ Gel-Cream
Word is this one might make it stateside soon (how soon is undetermined). Until then, it’s a European exclusive worth tracking down. Normally, I stick with La Roche-Posay’s Toleriane range, but this gel-cream moisturizer has been a standout. Lightweight, quick-absorbing, and perfectly compatible over serums and under SPF.
It’s built around a trio of acids: azelaic (brightening), salicylic (pore-clearing), and hyaluronic (hydrating). Together, they target exactly what I want at 45: decongested, even-toned, well-hydrated skin. A deceptively simple formula that does it all. 30 € / 40 ml
Avène Cleanance
First thing I noticed after moving? No RetrinAl in the European Avène lineup. Instead, I grabbed this night treatment in Paris back in March and was thrilled to find it in Madrid pharmacies as well. Don’t be put off by the name—yes, it’s strong, but not harsh if you use it as directed.
The Cleanance range spotlights Milk Thistle extract to keep breakouts in check. This particular formula fuses Glycolic Acid for gentle exfoliation with Retinal (retinaldehyde), the more potent, direct vitamin A derivative just one step away from retinoic acid. It stimulates collagen, refines texture, and evens tone without the dryness many retinoids bring. I use it two to three nights a week, and rarely need moisturizer on top. Potent yet balanced. 25 € / 40 ml
I promise to come back with Vol II before the year is over so come back to visit. Also make sure to keep your eyes peeled for my Euro Pharmacy Sunscreen post.
Affiliate links are sprinkled in here. Translation: if you buy through them, I might earn a small commission (aka funds for more niacinamide).
