About L'Occitane
L'Occitane’s origins date back to 1976, in the open-air markets of Provence. Brand founder, environmental activist and Provence native Olivier Baussan, who was 23 years old at the time, began distilling rosemary essential oil with an alembic (an antique device used by alchemists for distillation) to sell locally. He eventually acquired an old soap factory, thus successfully expanding his production to soaps and creams. The brand continued to grow and opened its first boutique in 1982 in Volx, southeastern France. Decades later, L'Occitane, formally known as L'Occitane en Provence, is a global beauty brand celebrated for its naturally derived skincare and bodycare formulas, sensorial textures, delectable scents and sustainable practices
Who Is L'Occitane For
L'Occitane is made for those who love luxurious yet accessible beauty and wellbeing products for day-to-day selfcare and high-quality, naturally derived ingredients. Additionally, if you value sustainable sourcing and a strong commitment to ethics and social responsibility, L'Occitane is for you.
Why Space NK Loves L'Occitane
We love L'Occitane’s core values and passion for sustainability – the B-Corp brand ensures its ingredients are traceable and cultivates meaningful partnerships with its producers. As for the products, the textures, scents and results are excellent. We can’t get enough of the skin-transforming Immortelle Overnight Reset Face Serum and editor-approved Shea Butter Hand Cream. Another absolute must-try Almond (Amande) Shower Oil,the addictive Almond Shower Oil – it’ll make your skin feel nourished and smooth all over.
Your Questions, Answered
If you’re unsure about how to pronounce L’Occitane, just think of it as ‘lok·see·tan’ or ‘lox-ee-tan’. An ode to the brand's Provençal heritage, the literal meaning of L’Occitane in English is ‘the woman from Occitania’.
While L’Occitane does have many vegan offerings, such as the Almond (Amande) Supple Skin Oil and Shea Butter Hand Cream, L’Occitane itself is not a vegan brand. Within the brand’s products you’ll find animal-derived ingredients such as honey, propolis and beeswax.
L’Occitane is currently part of Groupe L'Occitane, which focuses heavily on sustainability and ethical sourcing. Brand founder Olivier Baussan is still very much involved with L’Occitane, serving as a brand ambassador and creative consultant.
L’Occitane Almond (Amande) Shower Oil works the same way as traditional shower gels. Upon contact with water, this luxurious oil transforms into a delicate milky texture that gently cleanses and deeply moisturises skin.