In this series we call Tried & True, we shortlist the holy grails and the OGs, the top-shelf regulars, under-the-radar picks, as well as the new and fresh-off-the-lab and the viral sensations worth the hype from reputable brands that we’ve road-tested ourselves.
Behind the name, we explore what makes a brand worth discovering, whether it’s how it has redefined beauty, its founder’s inspiring story, or how its range of offerings gave consumers what they truly want and need. This edition features an icon in French skincare, L’Occitane.
In the golden landscapes and fragrant lavender fields of Provence lies the inspiration behind one of the most beloved beauty brands in the world—L’Occitane en Provence. L’Occitane’s journey traces back to 1976 when a young Olivier Baussan began distilling essential oils and started selling them in the markets of Provence, France with a mission to share the goodness of the region’s rich botanical heritage with the world.
Fueled by a passion for preserving traditional techniques and sourcing high-quality natural ingredients, L’Occitane continues to be a global household name for its formulations renowned for their efficacy and performance. Their products bring the luxury of a spa day right to your bathroom, using trusted ingredients to refresh both the body and the senses.
What’s even more impressive is L’Occitane’s long-standing commitment to sustainability, weaving environmental responsibility into its operations. “The brand is huge on sustainability and reducing plastic waste, that’s why a lot of our products also come in refills and locally, we also have a recycling program available in all our stores,” says L’Occitane Philippines brand manager Aprille Cabrera. “We make sure we are able to personalize [every customer’s] experience and that they get to be a part of the brand by incorporating its values into our interactions with them.”
L’Occitane is also committed to giving back to the communities that inspire its products, gaining much admiration and respect worldwide. Through initiatives such as the L’Occitane Foundation, which supports projects promoting economic empowerment of women, environmental conservation, and eye care, the brand demonstrates its dedication to making a positive impact on both local and global scales.
With that, we explore L’Occitane’s exquisite range of products that embody the essence of Provence’s natural beauty and rich heritage.
EDITOR FAVORITE
L’Occitane Almond Shower Oil
According to L’Occitane Philippines brand manager Aprille Cabrera, L’Occitane’s Almond range is one of the brand’s more popular body care products because of its unique scent and many skin benefits. The shower oil, for one, draws in a lot of users because its fragrance is simply divine. The aroma of almonds fills the air as soon as you pour a small amount into your palm. It’s not overpowering but rather soothing, providing a subtle fragrance that lingers on your skin long after you’ve showered.
Another noteworthy feature of this shower oil is its unique and luxurious texture. Upon contact with water, the oil transforms into a rich, creamy lather that glides smoothly over the skin. While traditional shower gels can leave your skin feeling dry and stripped of moisture, L’Occitane’s Almond Shower Oil leaves the skin feeling soft and hydrated. Its formula is enriched with almond oil, providing deep nourishment without leaving any greasy residue.
This product is also well-loved for its versatility. Though it’s marketed as a shower oil, it can also be used in the bathtub for an indulgent bathing experience. One can simply pour a small amount into the bathwater and let the oil disperse and mix with the water to create a spa-like atmosphere in the comfort of one’s own home.
L’Occitane Almond Shower Oil 500ml
P2,600, Lazada
HERO PRODUCT
L’Occitane Shea Butter Hand Cream
Revered by beauty enthusiasts around the world, L’Occitane’s Shea Butter Hand Cream is a true icon when it comes to hand care. One of its standout features is its quick absorption. Unlike other hand creams that leave the hands feeling greasy or oily, L’Occitane’s formula sinks in almost instantly, leaving behind soft and supple skin. This hand cream is enriched with 20 percent shea butter that deeply moisturizes and softens dry hands to leave them feeling velvety smooth and replenished.
While the price may seem a bit steep compared to other hand creams in the market, a little goes a long way with this product. A small pea-sized amount is all that’s needed to cover both hands, which goes to show that a single tube can last for ages. Add to that the quality of the ingredients put into the product and the results it delivers, it’s truly worth it.
Shea Butter Hand Cream
P700, Rustan’s
UNDER-THE-RADAR ESSENTIAL
L’Occitane Citrus Verbana Fresh Shampoo
The Citrus Verbena Fresh Shampoo continues to be a popular product from the brand’s hair care collection and a beloved staple for many because of its uplifting scent. The zesty aroma of citrus verbena lingers as it is lathered up, leaving the hair—and the senses—feeling refreshed and rejuvenated.
The shampoo’s gel-like consistency lathers into a rich foam, cleansing the hair gently yet thoroughly. Its lightweight formula also rinses away excess oil without stripping the hair of its natural moisture, leaving it feeling clean, soft, and fragrant at the same time.
Citrus Verbena Fresh Shampoo 250ml
P1,500, L’Occitane
SECRET OBSESSION
L’Occitane Herbae Iris Eau de Toilette
For those who adore fresh floral scents, Herbae Iris Eau de Toilette is one we recommend. This fragrance features iris extract, accented by wild grass and Mahonial. While its scent may be quite subtle, it stays on the skin throughout the day and doesn’t just disappear after a few hours. Its light and airy composition makes it suitable for any occasion, whether you’re having a casual day out or heading out to a special evening.
Limited Edition Herbae Iris Eau de Toilette
P3,800, Rustan’s
UNDERRATED HOLY GRAIL
L’Occitane Cedrat Stick Deodorant
This alcohol-free and aluminum-free deodorant is highly regarded for its smooth application because it leaves a light and invisible layer of protection that can last all day long. Its non-sticky formula dries quickly so one can get dressed immediately without worrying about any residue or staining. Its gentle formula is also suitable for sensitive skin because it gives reliable odor protection while allowing the skin to breathe freely, to keep feeling dry and confident without any irritation or discomfort. We love how the cedrat aroma gives off a natural fragrance that captivates the senses without overwhelming them.
Cedrat Stick Deodorant
P1,400, Lazada
POPULAR PICK
L’Occitane Immortelle Overnight Oil-In Reset Serum
Immortelle Overnight Reset Serum is considered the top performer within the Immortelle range, says brand manager Aprille, as it effectively tackles skin stress, which is a universal concern. This serum is also suitable for all skin types. Formulated with Immortelle essential oil, Acmella Oleracea extract, and Marjoram extract, the Immortelle Overnight Oil-In Reset Serum is designed to address multiple skin concerns overnight. The serum’s lightweight and silky texture gives the skin a burst of hydration, sinking right into the skin as soon as it’s applied. For those dealing with dryness or dullness, this serum works tirelessly to reset the skin, leaving it looking and feeling radiant and revitalized by morning.
Immortelle Overnight Oil-In Reset Serum
P5,400, Lazada
HARDWORKING MUST-TRY
L’Occitane Immortelle Divine Youth Oil
The Divine Youth Oil is another popular choice within the Immortelle range. Formulated with 99 percent natural ingredients, this oil features a blend of Immortelle essential oil and organic Immortelle super extracts to deliver comprehensive anti-aging benefits. Once applied, it absorbs quickly and leaves the skin feeling instantly nourished and supple. With regular use, the oil helps improve skin texture and reduce the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines to enhance the skin’s overall luminosity for a more youthful and radiant complexion.
The Divine Youth Oil is frequently used as a targeted treatment that can be applied before moisturizer, mixed into foundation, or even on top of makeup for a more dewy look. It can also be used alone or layered with other skincare products to enhance their benefits.
Immortelle Divine Youth Oil
P6,700, Rustan’s
TIMELESS ICON
L’Occitane Immortelle Divine Cream
This iconic cream is renowned for its potent blend of Immortelle essential oil and natural botanicals that provide anti-aging benefits. As soon as it is applied, the cream instantly plumps the skin, likewise making it an ideal canvas for makeup application as it creates a smooth and even base.
The Immortelle Divine Cream is typically used as the last step of your skincare routine and is applied evenly to the face and neck after cleansing and toning. Its hydrating properties keep the skin moisturized all day without feeling heavy or greasy, so it leaves the skin with a luminous glow. With continued use, this cream can help improve skin firmness, elasticity, radiance, volume, and complexion evenness.
Immortelle Divine Face Cream
P6,700, Lazada
Collage by Dannah Valdezco. Waves by © ChrisVanLennepPhoto. Yellow flower cutout by © Sandra romfo. Green bush by © moderngolf. Hand reaching by © billion photos via canva.com
