Are Greek pharmacies Europe’s best-kept beauty secret?

Ultimate Greek pharmacy buy: Apivita Propolis Cleansing Gel. A purifying yet gentle gel, this is a daily staple for stressed summer skin.

The Naxos Apothecary

Inspired by the Cycladic island’s ancient healers, myths and botanicals, this is the Greek luxe brand to know. Its chic pharmacy-style glass bottles house tinctures, teas and skincare infused with Naxian herbs like thyme, sage and mountain plants. More than a brand, it feels like a sensory journey into Greek folklore and ritual, made modern with advanced extraction science. The boutique in Naxos town is a destination in itself – part pharmacy, part perfumery, part museum of natural remedies. For beauty lovers, it’s the ultimate Greek discovery: pharmacy authenticity, chic design and glorious formulas.

Ultimate Greek pharmacy buy: The Naxos Apothecary Antamoma Serum – a potent botanical blend to restore and soothe inflamed skin.

Papoutsanis

Founded in 1870, Papoutsanis is Greece’s oldest soap maker and a name everyone in the country knows. Best loved for its traditional green olive oil soap, it represents the simplicity and purity of Greek daily life. Today, Papoutsanis still honours its roots while producing liquid soaps, body washes and hotel amenities inspired by the Mediterranean. Eco-conscious and affordable, it’s less about luxe branding and more about authenticity and a real Greek home staple – plus it doubles as a beautiful gift.

Ultimate Greek pharmacy buy: Papoutsanis Pure Olive Oil Soap. It’s gentle, nourishing, and as classic as it gets.

Youth Lab

Youth Lab is Greece’s answer to French dermocosmetics: sleek, clinical and results-driven. Focused on cellular metabolism and active ingredients, it’s the brand for anyone who wants dermatologist-level skincare at pharmacy prices. Expect formulas packed with glycolic acid, retinol and hyaluronic acid, targeting everything from acne to fine lines. Its sunscreens are especially beloved by Greek beauty insiders for being high protection yet lightweight. In pharmacies, Youth Lab stands out with minimalist packaging and a clinical promise: effective skincare for modern life. It’s the Greek equivalent of Avene or La Roche Posay.

Ultimate Greek pharmacy buy: Youth Lab Daily Sunscreen Gel SPF50 – mattifying, lightweight, and perfect for hot climates.

Olive Era

As the name suggests, Olive Era celebrates Greece’s most famous export: olive oil. The brand sources Cretan olive oil and pairs it with botanicals like aloe vera, chamomile and calendula for nourishing formulas. Packaged in simple, pharmacy-style bottles, Olive Era feels authentically Greek – honest, effective, and affordable. It’s stocked in hotels, spas and pharmacies across the islands, and its focus on skin health and hydration is ideal for fans of simple but effective formulas. It’s one for the Neal’s Yard Remedies fans.

Ultimate Greek pharmacy buy: Olive Era Olive Oil Face Cream – a rich daily hydrator that leaves dry skin supple and comforted.

Athena’s Treasures

Athena’s Treasures feels like the embodiment of Greek mythology in skincare form. Using Cretan olive oil, honey, aloe, and herbs, it blends natural ingredients with the promise of wisdom and beauty from the goddess Athena herself. Widely available in pharmacies and souvenir shops, it’s an accessible line that appeals to travellers wanting something authentic yet affordable. From hair care to body lotions, the brand celebrates everyday Greek rituals, often with folklore-inspired packaging.