The province in the south of France known as Haute Provence has a wildly rugged landscape with a volatile climate and an almost primal beauty. Rolling hills, craggy peaks and enigmatic woodlands form a backdrop for a profusion of lavender, sage, lime blossoms, thyme, juniper and luminous narcissus that fill the air with a heady perfume and a vital sensuousness. These natural treasures inspired 23 year old Olivier Baussan to capture the spirit of this land using its essential oils and natural ingredients. He called his tribute L'Occitane - "the woman from Occitania" - the ancient name for Provence. Beginning in 1976 L'Occitane was one of the first companies to use essential oils as active ingredients and with a single old steam distiller Olivier made rosemary oil that he sold in local markets.
After discovering an abandoned soap factory he brought it back to life and using traditional methods and vegetable oils created a world-renowned range of soaps cherished for their quality ingredients and attractive shapes. These original products were enhanced by his use of Shea butter - derived from the nut of the Shea tree in Burkina Faso - providing a uniquely nourishing moisturiser. Olivier still has a passion for discovering the traditional techniques and ingredients used in the Provence he loves, so as to carry the magical qualities of the land into forms that benefit body, mind and spirit. This philosophy is continued in the packaging employed including silver tone metal tubes and brown corrugated-paper products. The results are embodied in the entire L'Occitane range of shampoos, skin care, fragrances, bath and body products, make up and soaps.
