Order Information
- How can I check the status of my order?
Registered users have the ability to check the status of their order and if their orders have arrived. To do so, go to My Account and click on the Order History tab. Once your order has been shipped you will find in this section your Royal Mail tracking number, just click on this number and pass the tracking number into the track field on the Royal Mail website.
Alternatively please contact our customer service department on 020 7907 0301 – Monday to Friday 9am to 5.30pm.
- How do I return/exchange an item?
It is L'OCCITANE's intention to satisfy our customers. For this reason, we will gladly issue a full refund to the original credit card for any unopened merchandise that is returned within 28 days of the date of purchase. All items must be accompanied by a copy of the original receipt and in unopened, saleable condition.
Please note that we cannot offer exchanges or refunds on any opened or used products and Postage & Packing will not be refunded. This does not affect your statutory rights.
To return any items, please first contact Customer Service at 020 7907 0301 - Monday to Friday 9am to 5.30pm
Send you returned items to:
L'OCCITANE
Returns Department
FREEPOST
NAT 9388
London
E6 6BR
Please allow one to three weeks from the day you return your package for your request to be processed.
- How much will it cost to ship my item?
-
L'OCCITANE UK delivers to any addresses in the UK (excluding Channel Islands). We use the fast, efficient courier service Home Delivery Network to deliver your order, however an alternative courier may be used depending on size and weight.
Standard delivery
- No matter how many items you order, our standard UK delivery rate is £4.95.
- We are able to process your order quickly, usually within 24 hours (subject to stock availability), and deliver within 2-3 working days to mainland UK and mainland Scotland addresses and 3-5 working days to the Channel Islands, Northern Ireland and the outer Scottish islands.
- Standard delivery is FREE for orders of £59 or more.
Next working day delivery
- We offer a next day delivery service and it is charged at £8.50
- Orders must be placed by 12 noon and should arrive the next working day (subject to stock availability), Monday to Friday, UK Mainland delivery only.
- Orders placed on Friday afternoon and over the weekend will be delivered the following Tuesday.
- Next working day Delivery Service not applicable to the following areas:
Northern Ireland, Channel Islands, Isle of Man
Scottish Highlands includespostcodes: FK17-99, G83, IV1-28, IV33-39, IV52-54, IV63, KW1-14, PA21-33, PA34-40, PH18-26, PH30, PH31-41, PH49-50.
Scottish Islands includes postcodes: HS1-9, IV40-51, IV55-56, KA27-28, KW15-17, PA20, PA41-49, PA60-78, PH42-44, ZE1-3.
- Do you ship to P.O. Boxes ?
We do not ship to P.O. Boxes. We ship via Royal Mail and Courier, therefore we need a physical address, and will require a signature on delivery.
- How can I change or cancel my order?
Please call 020 7907 0301 Monday to Friday 9am to 5.30pm or e-mail us if after hours. We cannot guarantee that cancellations or changes will be possible due to the promptness of our order processing.
- Can I purchase gift vouchers online?
L'OCCITANE UK does not sell gift vouchers online but you can order them through our Mail Order Department on 020 7907 0301. L'OCCITANE gift vouchers are available in denomination of £5, £10 or £20.
Gift vouchers cannot be redeemed online but can be redeemed in any of our UK Boutiques except department stores and airport stores) or by Mail Order.
If you want to use your gift voucher with Mail Order, send your order and your gift vouchers to our freepost address, make sure to include £4.95 for the postage and packaging if the order is less than £59 at:
L'OCCITANE
Mail Order
FREEPOST
NAT 9388
London
E6 6BR- How do I order a gift?
1) View our Gift Boutique for an array of gift selections for women and men in varying price ranges. Some selections are elegantly pre-wrapped and available for immediate shipment. You can also add a personalized note.
2) Build your own gift by selecting the products you wish to give. We will choose the most appropriate packaging for your items, and you can also add a personalized note. This option may add one business day to the order processing time.
Please be aware of the following:
- Gift wrap instructions and the space to add your personalised message are on the lower portion of the My Order screen. Be sure to click ADD TO BAG after making your selection - it will appear as a line item in your order.
- Also in My Order or on the Review Your Order page you will have the ability to select the option to hide prices on the recipients invoice.
- If you need a receipt, please print a copy of your order or the confirmation e-mail.
- If you are ordering individual items to be gift-wrapped, they will be gift–wrapped together as we are not able to wrap items individually or custom gift-wrap.
- Each separate shipping address requires a separate order.
- All contents of the order will be sent to the recipient including samples and promotional offers. We are not able to split orders.
- How do I use a promotion code?
Most promotions on loccitane.co.uk are activated through a promotional code. The way to receive our special offers is to utilise the promotion code in the correct field at the checkout. Please follow the steps below: Once you are done selecting your order, click on checkout. You will see a text field called PROMOTIONAL CODE. Simply type or copy/paste (recommended) the promotional code in this text field and click on ACTIVATE.
- FOR FREE GIFT OFFERS: A message will appear displaying the conditions of the offer and will allow you to add your free gift in your basket. Click on ADD TO BAG. If your order does not meet the criteria of the offer, your free gift will not be added to your order. The free gift will be automatically added in your basket once your order meets the conditions of the offer.
- FOR ORDER DISCOUNT & FREE SHIPPING OFFERS: A message will appear displaying the conditions of the offer. Your discount will be effective once your order meets the offer requirements.
Most promotion codes and offers are for a limited time, cannot be combined with other offers or discounts, restricted to one gift per customer per order and while stocks last. Make sure to add the promotion you most want to your order.
Some discounts don't require a promotional code. In this case, simply make sure to meet the offer requirements and your free gift will be added automatically to your basket.
- Do you ship internationally?
L'OCCITANE UK does not ship internationally. For delivered outside of the UK, please visit our global website www.loccitane.com.
- What if an item is out of stock? Do you 'back order'?
If an item is out of stock, we'll happily send you an e-mail when it's back in stock. Simply click "Be notified when product is back in stock" on the product page and supply your e-mail address. We'll notify you when the item becomes available. Or, use the Store Locator to find a store near you (call ahead to confirm that they have your desired product in stock). L'OCCITANE does not offer a back order service.
My Account
- Why should I register ?
Registering to our website allows you to keep a record of your information. This will save you some time on your next purchase. Also you will be able to see your past orders and re-order easily by using our 'Favourites' service. You will receive information, newsletters and special offers only available to our registered customers.
- I forgot my password, how can I find it ?
If you forgot your password, simply go to login page, click on "forgot password" and we will send it to your email address we have on file.
- How do I modify my personal information ?
Simply go to login page and enter your login/password. You will then be able to modify your personnal information.
Security
- Is it safe to use my credit card on your website ?
Our website uses SSL, the standard for security on all websites. SSL employs 128-bit encryption to ensure that private information remains private.
- Is it safe to give you my email address ?
The customer information that we have in our database is reserved for internal use only, we do not sell this information to anybody, it is kept private. This information is needed in order to get to know you better and find ways of serving you better. You also have the right and the ability to modify this information at anytime by logging on to your account.
The Brand
- How do you pronounce the word L'OCCITANE?
Phonetically you pronounce our name "lox- ee- tahn".
- What does "L'OCCITANE" mean?
L'OCCITANE means "the woman from Occitania". Occitania is the name of the ancient geographic area in southern France, spanning from northeastern Spain to northwestern Italy.
Our Commitments
- What does L'OCCITANE do in order to sustain the production of its key ingredients ?
Natural ingredients are at the heart of the L'OCCITANE product formulas and we apply rigorous and strict quality and traceability criteria. To perpetuate the availability of our products, we are involved in efforts to preserve certain rare species. In 2003, L'OCCITANE launched the first large-scale immortelle plantation in Corsica. We also promote the revival of "forgotten" cultivations. In 2004, L'OCCITANE played an active role in a program to revive the cultivation of the almond tree in Provence, led by the Alpes de Haute-Provence administration. We contribute to promoting traditional cultivations, and particularly that of lavender. There has been a decline in lavender cultivation, and we are keeping a close eye on this situation.
- What is meant by sustainable development? What does it involve?
With regard to sustainable development, our policy is based on the principle of continuous improvement of our practices, aimed at achieving a greater environmental, economic and social balance.
Our concern for the environment is particularly reflected in our choice of ingredients and eco-friendly packaging:
- Our active ingredients are of plant origin and, when possible, derived from organic agriculture.
- Our packaging is made with recyclable materials and we limit the use of unnecessary packing material.
This concern for the environment is also reflected through our permanent reassessment of the way in which we work, with a focus on being more environmentally responsible. For example:
- 95% of our goods are transported by road or sea, and we are looking for new ways to further reduce the environmental impact of our supply chain (study into combined rail/road transport).
- There is a company travel plan for the site in Manosque (car sharing, shuttle bus for employees).
- An energy-saving plan is in the process of being implemented in all of our sites (occupancy sensors, low-energy lighting, raising employee awareness of energy use).
At L'OCCITANE, sustainable development is also about the company's economic and social responsibility.
- With regard to its suppliers: we ask all our suppliers to sign our code of ethics and we enter into a sustainable relationship with them. Sometimes, this can involve working together on a co-development project, as is the case with the women's groups from Burkina Faso, who supply us with shea butter.
- With regard to our employees: who can now access the L'OCCITANE capital through the company's profit-sharing scheme. Social dialogue is also very important (staff meetings, employee satisfaction surveys). There are plans for a company crèche at the site in Manosque.
- With regard to society: as the largest private employer in the Manosque employment catchment area, L'OCCITANE contributes to the occupational integration of disadvantaged people (people with disabilities, without qualifications, etc.). This social responsibility to society is also expressed through projects supported by the L'OCCITANE Foundation for the benefit of the visually impaired, women in poor countries, and for the preservation of the "knowledge of nature".
- Does L'OCCITANE use recyclable packaging for its products? What actions is L'OCCITANE taking to protect the environment?
Our concern for the environment has led to the use of recyclable, environmentally friendly packaging (cardboard, glass, recyclable plastic, aluminium ) and a minimum amount of unnecessary packing material. We strive to use paper or cardboard based on an ecological approach: kraft paper produced from the cleaning up of the Landes forest, paper bearing the Ecolabel, recycled paper produced with seaweed from the Venice lagoon, and recycled paper or cardboard.
We also encourage our customers to recycle our packaging. This way, we can all work together to save on natural resources by reusing waste products and reducing the amount of landfilled or incinerated waste.
The "Green Dot" logo on our labels indicates that L'OCCITANE participates in European programmes for disposal and recycling of all of its packaging materials.
- In which country are you developing a fair trade program?
For over 20 years, we have sourced our shea butter from Burkina Faso, Africa with a fair trade approach. Resulting in:
- we have established a partnership with more than 11 000 women
- we purchase shea butter that has been processed in situ - which makes it more financially rewarding for these women than purchasing the unprocessed shea kernels
- For the year 2007 we purchased over 330 tons of shea butter, i.e. 75% of the shea butter produced for the beauty industry and exported by Burkina Faso
- we provide 80% pre-financing for our orders (fair trade requires pre-financing of 30%) so that these groups have the means to equip themselves and purchase supplies of shea nuts
- we regularly monitor production and the needs of these cooperatives by visiting them each year.
- What support programmes is L'OCCITANE involved in with local producers from its region?
For 30 years we have supported local traditional production methods and sourced supplies directly from local producers: cooperatives in Haute-Provence for AOC lavender essential oil from Haute Provence, the oil mill in Gard for almond oil, the mill of Haute-Provence for organic AOC olive oil, and a distiller-producer in Corsica for immortelle essential oil.
The AOC controlled origin label is used for the product of a specific region or place, whose quality or characteristics are essentially determined by this geographical area. It results from the combination of a production method and a terroir, expressed through man's know-how.
- Why is there Braille writing on L'OCCITANE products?
We have taken action to help the visually impaired, which includes:
- the use of Braille labelling on our products since 1996 so that the visually impaired can have access to them, and in English so that it is understood by the greatest number of consumers
- the creation of the association "Provence dans tous les sens" (All the senses of Provence) by the employees of L'OCCITANE, which introduces visually-impaired children to the world of fragrance creation
- our financial support for ORBIS (www.orbis.org) - an international non-governmental organization that fights blindness in developing countries through training, prevention and care.
- Are L'OCCITANE products tested on animals?
Ever since the company was created in 1976, we have chosen not to test our products on animals. As a reflection of this approach, we have never used products of animal origin, with the exception of beehive products (honey, royal jelly, propolis) and we were among the first to indicate this commitment in writing on our products.
We use and encourage the development of alternative testing methods for both ourselves and our suppliers. Most of the raw materials that we use in our products are not tested on animals, including our main active ingredients (essential oils, shea butter, honey, etc.) or have not been tested on animals in the past 20 years.
L'OCCITANE has signed up to an international agreement with One Voice. This agreement represents a commitment against the use of animal testing for finished products and a commitment to using "old", known ingredients, or new ingredients that have been tested using alternative methods.
- Why have you stopped selling this product?
The decision to continue or stop selling a particular product is taken after studying the preferences of our consumers and other different products that are already available on the international market. If your favourite product has been discontinued, ask your store for advice: other solutions will be suggested that can also meet your needs.
- Are L'OCCITANE products effective on the skin?
Yes. We invest in research and test the effectiveness of our active ingredients. The results of this research are patented. We evaluate the effectiveness of our formulas through in vitro tests or tests on volunteers, as well as through use tests for face care formulas.
Our Formulas
- How do you obtain your essential oils and extracts?
Our essential oils are obtained through steam distillation of the plants (stems, flowers, roots, barks, etc.). During the distillation process, steam passes through the plant material. When it cools down, it releases the essential oil and floral water (also known as the hydrolat or hydrosol). Our extracts are obtained through different extraction processes (maceration, infusion, etc.) by processing the plant in a solution, which can then be reduced to the desired consistency, liquid or dry, through evaporation.
- How are your fragrances formulated?
Our fragrances are composed around a heart of natural essences and comply with restrictions on synthetic components (notably phthalates) and allergens.
- What exactly is an organic ingredient?
An organic ingredient is one that is derived from organic agriculture and which, under European legislation that took effect in 1991, must comply with certain basic rules, including:
- respecting the ecosystem by using cultivation and breeding methods that strive to maintain natural balances,
- using no chemical fertilisers and pesticides or synthetic herbicides,
- using no genetically modified organisms (GMOs)
- mandatory inspection by organic certification bodies - this applies to both the producers and processors of organic products,
- traceability back to the source area of the plant, whatever the country of production.
In parallel, on an international scale, the NOP (National Organic Program) regulations were introduced in the United States in 2002, while the JAS (Japan Agricultural Standard) was introduced in Japan in 2000.
- What is the percentage of organic ingredients in your organic beauty products?
An organic beauty product must comply with strict regulations defined by European and American certification agencies, including Ecocert, BDIH, USDA, the Soil Association, Nature et Progrès, etc.
L'OCCITANE's organic products comply with Ecocert regulations, adhering to a list of authorised ingredients and mandates on:
- a minimum of 95% natural ingredients or ingredients of natural origin
- a minimum of 95% of total plant ingredients certified organic
- a minimum of 10% of total ingredients certified organic.
- What is the difference between organic and natural? What exactly is an organic beauty product?
Cosmetic ingredients of natural origin are derived from elements found in Nature and not from chemistry.
An organic beauty product must comply with more stringent standards than the conventional regulations on cosmetic products.
These standards guarantee respect for the environment throughout the production chain, respect for the consumer, and a positive emphasis on natural substances of superior ecological quality. Our organic cosmetic products comply with the specifications of the Ecocert "BIO" organic label, which sets the highest quality standards for cosmetic products made with natural substances. Ecocert is an independent certification body that has produced a list of authorised ingredients in this case and insists on:
- a minimum of 95% natural ingredients or ingredients of natural origin
- a minimum of 95% of the total plant ingredients certified organic
- a minimum of 10% of the total ingredients certified organic
Synthetic fragrances or colorants, silicones and mineral oils are not permitted. Only certain essential synthetic ingredients are authorised when no natural alternative is available.
- Why doesn't L'OCCITANE make all of its products organic?
Our approach to organic beauty products is a realistic one.
We would like to develop this offering in collaboration with Ecocert, while also taking into account existing constraints: the availability of resources from organic agriculture, the ability to maintain a product's cosmetic and sensory qualities, and obtaining the most effective formula. Our entire product range will always live up to the highest standards in terms of performance, quality and safety.
- Are organic products hypoallergenic?
Certified-organic formulas most often contain a certain number of potentially allergenic substances, due to their high concentration of essential oils and floral waters. Therefore they cannot be termed hypoallergenic.
- Are organic products more suitable for sensitive skin?
Certified-organic formulas most often contain a certain number of potentially allergenic substances, due to their high concentration of essential oils and floral waters. As a result, they may not be suitable for all skin types. This is why organic formulas must undergo a barrage of rigorous tests to ensure that they are completely safe.
- What is the percentage of natural ingredients in L'OCCITANE products?
Some of our products use 100% ingredients of natural origin (the Very Precious Regenerating Concentrate with immortelle essential oil, shea butter, Mom & Baby Balm, etc.). The great majority of our products contain over 90% natural ingredients or ingredients of natural origin. Our ingredients of natural origin are indicated on most of our packaging by two stars ** in the product composition section.
- How can we claim that products are natural when synthetic ingredients are used in them?
We always strive to use natural, traceable, high-quality ingredients (AOC controlled-origin, organic agriculture), which we source from local farming networks or sustainable development programmes. However, to create a product that provides the highest level of safety and performance, we may use synthetic molecules (while always erring on the side of caution) when no reliable and effective natural alternative is available.
- Can a product have no preservatives? If so, how do you maintain shelf life and purity?
Preservatives are molecules that prevent microbiological contamination of cosmetic formulas. Formulas that contain no water such as pure shea butter, mum & baby balm or bath and massage oil do not need any preservatives. Formulas that contain water need preservatives so that they can be used in normal conditions (kept in the bathroom, everyday contact with the user's hands, etc.). Our shea cotton line for sensitive skins is preservative free. For this range we limited the number of product ingredients, and selected raw materials specifically for their purity or their preservative properties (glycerin, liquorice, bisabolol…). Protective bottles also guarantee maximum protection of this formula.
- What are Parabens ?
Parabens are preservatives, At L'OCCITANE, we have always used parabens in very low doses (between 0.3% and 0.5%) in conjunction with active essential oils, to prevent the proliferation of bacteria. International legislation allows a maximum of 0.8%.
As a company that always errs on the side of caution, we replace parabens whenever possible with other preservatives whose toxicological risks have been fully investigated. Since 2005, the majority of our new products have been formulated without parabens. Today, approximately 80% of our products are paraben-free.
- What is your approach to parabens and preservatives?
Preservatives are molecules that prevent microbiological contamination of cosmetic formulas. All formulas need preservatives so that they can be used in normal conditions (kept in the bathroom, everyday contact with the user's hands, etc.).
We always proceed with caution, using preservatives in doses lower than those authorised by legislation in all countries and, whenever possible, including essential oils with antimicrobial properties in our formulas to help preserve the products.
At present, parabens are under scrutiny since a controversial British study revealed a potential link between parabens and cancer. Therefore, with regard to this subject, we ensure that we keep abreast of the latest studies and the position taken by the world's bodies responsible for cosmetic regulations. As a company that always errs on the side of caution, we replace parabens as far as possible with other preservatives whose toxicological risks have been fully investigated.
- Are L'OCCITANE products safe for the skin?
Yes. The rules that govern our products on a European and international level are very strict and continually updated to reflect the latest scientific developments. Our products contain selected, superior-quality ingredients. Moreover, for every new product launched, we provide a very complete safety file.
We systematically conduct tests to ensure that our products are gentle on the skin: skin irritation tests for our skincare or hygiene products; eye irritation tests for products aimed at the eye area; use tests lasting several weeks under the supervision of dermatologists and/or ophthalmologists for face care products. All inspections are carried out by independent laboratories approved by the Ministry of Health in order to guarantee the excellence and quality of all of our products.
- For how long can I keep my L'OCCITANE product?
To ensure that our consumers can use our products in the very best conditions, we give a use-by date on sensitive products, i.e. products for babies or organic products.
Other products, with a durability of over 30 months, are not required to carry the use-by date. In this case, the "Period After Opening" (PAO) symbol appears on the product and indicates the number of months within which the product can continue to be used with optimum effectiveness, after opening, under normal conditions of use.
This symbol does not appear on products where there is no risk of deterioration (eau de toilette, samples, etc.).
- Can I keep my products in the fridge?
You can keep your products in your refrigerator if you wish; in this case they will last even longer. Moreover, since the coldness of the product improves skin microcirculation, it will boost the penetration of the active ingredients so that it has an instant effect. However, products that contain plant waxes or oils may become cloudy in temperatures lower than 10°C. This should not be a cause for concern: at room temperature they will become clear again and the properties of the formula will not be affected.
- Why do my products become cloudy?
Some products containing a high concentration of plant waxes or oils may become cloudy when exposed to a temperature below 10°C. They become clear again at room temperature and the properties of the formula are not affected in any way.
- What does "hypoallergenic" mean? Are L'OCCITANE products hypoallergenic?
A product is said to be hypoallergenic when it has been formulated to minimise the risk of an allergic reaction. This is the case with our Shea & Cotton range and for some other products, such as the Mom & Baby Balm.
- Are L'OCCITANE products "vegan" products?
Yes, since we do not use any animal products or by-products, except for beehive products such as honey or royal jelly.
- Is the organic shea butter unrefined?
Our shea butter undergoes a physical filtering process that complies with the standard requirements of Ecocert and preserves all the properties of the butter.
- Why do some face care products contain mineral-based sunscreens?
For several years, L'OCCITANE has been conducting research into using mineral sunscreens rather than chemical sunscreens, with the aim of providing effective sun protection, reducing the risk of allergic reactions and finding the safest possible solution. Mineral pigments form an invisible shield on the surface of the skin that deflects the range of harmful rays while still allowing skin to breathe. They provide protection from the sun by physically reflecting UV rays. They differ in this way from the chemical filters (molecules that absorb sun rays).
The primary advantages of mineral sunscreens are:
- photo-stability (inert pigments guarantee protection that does not diminish over time)
- optimal cutaneous tolerance
- immediate protection upon applying to skin (provided by physical coverage)
The Precious Protection formula contains mineral-based sunscreens for effective protection against sun damage.
- What is the difference between sodium laureth sulfate and sodium lauryl sulfate? Why are these ingredients used when they are seen as dangerous?
SLES (Sodium Lauryl Ether Sulfate or Sodium Laureth Sulfate): Ethoxylated compounds are not dangerous. The controversy surrounding SLES is linked to the process that is used to produce them, which involves a highly reactive gas called ethylene oxide. However, by controlling all processes, as well as the purification stage, any traces of this intermediary substance in the finished product can be eliminated. Ethoxylation offers the advantage of producing a more gentle surfactant than an identical, non-ethoxylated version.
SLS (Sodium Lauryl Sulfate): If used alone on the skin, this highly detergent surfactant has a drying and irritating effect. However, our shower gels and shampoos are created using sophisticated formulas and include several types of foaming agents, including TEA Lauryl Sulfate – another form of Lauryl Sulfate. This combination with other gentle surfactants makes these products more gentle on the skin and hair.
- Do L'OCCITANE deodorants contain aluminium salts?
L'OCCITANE uses aluminium salts as well as essential oils in two of its roll-on deodorants: the Aromachologie and L'Occitan roll-ons. A recent study by a group of expert oncologists (published in September 2008 in the Bulletin du Cancer journal) refuted the hypothesis raised in recent years of a link between the aluminium salts in deodorants and breast cancer. But we also offer alternatives without active aluminium salts, such as the Stick déodorant des Baux and the Pierre d'alum, which is made of natural, chemically inert crystalline powder. The Pierre de Cristal de L'OCCITANE, a 100% alum stone with astringent and purifying properties, acts like a natural deodorant.
- What is alum stone?
Alum stone is a natural crystalline powder derived from alumina and alum shale, which are aluminium oxides and hydroxides. They are chemically inert (i.e. non-reactive), so there is no risk of the alum releasing aluminium . The L'OCCITANE Crystal Deodorant Stone is 100% alum stone and acts as a natural deodorant thanks to its astringent and purifying properties.
- Where does the palm oil come from that is used by L'OCCITANE?
L'OCCITANE is a socially responsible company that is committed to limiting the environmental impact of its actions and products.
Palm oil is used mainly in the food industry, but also to a small extent in beauty products (less than 5% of global consumption). L'OCCITANE is aware that the farming of oil palm trees encourages farmers in forested areas of Asia to replace the natural ecosystem with oil palm plantations. A round table on "sustainable" palm oil production (RSPO), bringing together growers, oil processors and NGOs such as the WWF, has been created to promote farming methods that help reduce deforestation and preserve biodiversity. In spite of the obvious difficulties associated with implementing this initiative, and the vigilance that it requires, L'OCCITANE supports the RSPO standards and, in future, will source palm oil for its soap bases from RSPO suppliers.
- Our Research & Development laboratory is also working on ways to substitute the palm oil used in our candles with other oils.
- We have sent a letter to all our suppliers, telling them of our concerns about the use of palm oil and asking if they can suggest any alternative products.
- We are working to rehabilitate an old palm grove in Africa in accordance with the principles of fair trade and biodynamics.
- In the long term, we hope to take up the same challenge as we did with shea butter in Burkina Faso, by rehabilitating several existing village palm groves without compromising biodiversity.
Our Advice
- When should you start using a skincare product to fight the first signs of aging?
From the age of 25 your skin starts to become weaker. At this age, we recommend that you use skincare products with a preventative action. The products in the Almond-Apple range have been specially developed for this purpose. They contain a unique combination of active ingredients, enhance the beauty of your skin, and help provide effective protection against the first signs of aging.
- Is it important to use a specific skincare product for the eye area?
-
The skin around the eyes is finer, more fragile, and becomes marked more easily than the skin of the rest of the face. Because of this, it is preferable to use a skincare product that has been specifically formulated for the eye area, such as the Olive Express Eye Treatment, the Immortelle Eye Balm or the Shea Butter Ultra Rich Eye Balm. These products are fragrance-free, colorant-free and ophthalmologist tested.
- Is it really that important to use a night cream?
Night-time offers a favourable environment for your skin. During the day, your skin is in defense mode and exposed to harsh environmental elements (pollution, smoke, UV radiation, changes in temperature). At night, this is no longer the case and the skin is more receptive to skincare products, so it can work to protect its beauty.
- Which beauty products are recommended for pregnant women?
During pregnancy, the skin becomes drier and is subject to unusual mechanical stress that, in 60 to 80% of cases, can lead to stretch marks. To keep the skin smooth and prevent stretch marks from appearing, it is essential to use products that nourish and firm and improve skin suppleness. In this case, the Shea Butter Mom & Baby balm or certain products from the Almond range are recommended. Products that contain pure essential oils or a high concentration of menthol, camphor or eucalyptol are not recommended during pregnancy. When products should not be used by pregnant women, this is indicated in the precautions on the product label.
- Which products are recommended for women who are breastfeeding?
The skin of the bust requires daily care to keep it supple, so it's important to use a nourishing product such as the Shea Butter Mom & Baby Balm. We advise mothers to avoid applying products before feeding, and don't apply products to the nipple or areola. As for using products that contain essential oils, the recommendations and precautions are the same as those that apply to pregnant women.
- Which products can be used on children?
The "sensitive skin" products in the Shea Butter Mom & Baby range are ideal for protecting and nourishing the fragile skin of children, which cannot fully defend itself against the physical and chemical damage to which we are exposed every day.
Precautions are listed on the labels of our products that should not be used by children such as certain products made with essential oils.
- Can men use L'OCCITANE products?
L'OCCITANE has developed a range of products for men that is adapted to their skin and specific needs: the CADE range. Products in this range can, of course, be used with other L'OCCITANE products. All of our products are very gentle on all skin types – even the most sensitive.
- I have sensitive skin: what skincare products can I use on my face?
The Ultra-Comforting Shea & Organic Cotton range, with products for a complete skincare routine (cream, mask, cleansing milk, etc.) has been specially formulated for sensitive skin. It soothes the skin and reduces redness.
Home
- What does this symbol mean
, used on home fragrance products?
In accordance with European regulations on home fragrance products, this flammability symbol is used to indicate that the product must not be placed near a source of heat. A raised symbol is used so that the blind and visually impaired are also informed of the precautions that should be taken.
- On home fragrance products, what does the raised triangle mean?
Much like the "flammability" symbol, this triangle is a tactile warning that informs the blind and visually impaired that precautions must be taken when using this product. It is provided in addition to the information given in Braille on our packaging.
- Are L'OCCITANE perfumed candles and incense sticks safe to use?
Yes they are. Detailed information and precautions for use are given on the packaging to make sure the products can be used both easily and safely. Products for the home have recently been in the news due to worries about the risks associated with burning them. With this in mind, L'OCCITANE has spearheaded a project in conjunction with other home-fragrance companies in the region, as well as perfumers and a university research laboratory. This should conclude with the creation of an international standard regarding the smoke produced by these products.
- Why do the labels on beauty products not contain the same phrases as those on home fragrance products?
Home fragrance products and beauty products are not governed by the same regulations. Since these products are used in different ways, they are not subject to the same labelling requirements.