Par Rachel Barrett-Trangmar
The parapharmacy here in St Jean, ‘Saint Barth Beauté Santé’, offers a treasure trove of natural products designed to improve overall health and well-being. I was keen to know more about this enterprise that radiates positive energy as soon as you enter this alternative universe.
What is a parapharmacy and how does it differ from a traditional pharmacy?
A parapharmacy sells health and beauty care products, but it is not able to sell prescription medication. Its merchandise includes a wide range of natural supplements such as essential vitamins and minerals, which our bodies are not able to produce for themselves or we are not always able to consume in sufficient quantities. We also offer many natural wellness products including fragrances, essential oils and herbal teas. We are always happy to discuss and explain the benefits of our products to our clients.
Who are the members of the parapharmacy team?
There are three of us in total: Marc Jean who is the store manager; then there is Hélène Frédéric and Océane Laplace, the two parapharmacists.
What inspired you to become a parapharmacist?
Hélène: Above all, my work as a parapharmacist gives me the opportunity to help others by providing personal advice on natural products, allowing me to best meet the specific needs of individuals. I am most interested in health and beauty care products, and I am pleased to be able to share this passion with our clients. I regularly attend trade shows in France and elsewhere, which keeps me abreast of the latest trends and developments in the natural and holistic health and beauty care industry.
Océane: My career as a parapharmacist began at a timely yet unexpected moment in my professional development. The comprehensive product training is a continual learning process because the healthcare industry is an ever-evolving source of information. There is also the perpetual challenge of meeting clients’ needs, taking each case individually, thinking creatively and not relying on prior-knowledge or generalisations – and simply doing your best at all times.
What was your career path to practise this trade?
Hélène: My initial plan was not to work in a parapharmacy but in a medical analysis laboratory. However, I found the work rather boring and repetitive, so I embarked on further studies in perfumes and cosmetics. This was far more interesting and allowed me to work for L’Oréal, Lancôme and Dior in mainland France. I subsequently moved to Martinique in order to manage the Jean-Paul Gautier and Givenchy brands. This was followed by a job opportunity in St Barts, which was supposed to be for one year but that was 18 years ago!
Océane: I have followed a multifaceted career path, trying a little of everything for the pure enjoyment of learning and progressing in a professional environment. This experience has taught me a lot, increasing my knowledge through working with experts in their individual fields. Despite my many interests, I have principally favoured jobs in health, beauty and well-being – from a nursing assistant to a beautician, in addition to gaining a diploma in reflexology. These are just a few of my qualifications in alternative medicine, all of which have given me valid skills to assist our current clientele.
Who are your clients?
Given the character of the island of St Barts, we have a very cosmopolitan clientele. Nevertheless, our principal clients are the residents of the island who live here all year round. We thus offer alternative remedies for general health and well-being, as well as products appropriate for a vacation. In addition, we have a great selection of interesting gift ideas.
How do you source your products?
We base our choice of products on our experience and knowledge of client preferences, together with the benefits they can bring in terms of health and well-being. We carefully select our suppliers in Europe and the United States, mainly favouring organic suppliers in addition to those that have a positive impact on our environment.
Is there anything specific you would like to say to the readers of Coccoloba?
Please feel free to come and simply browse and learn more about us. You will find a calm zen atmosphere where our welcoming team can introduce you to our product range and treatment options. It is important to set aside time to take care of yourself!
