From The Archives: L’OCCITANE 25% Shea Butter Intensive Hand Balm

There isn’t a body care classic more celebrated than the iconic L’OCCITANE hand cream. A global phenomenon, it’s very well deserving of its cult status. When the 25% Shea Butter Intensive Hand Balm launched, my first accusatory passive aggressive question was: it’s not replacing the original, IS IT? It is not!

20 vs 25

Ok, we all know that the original formula contains 20% Shea Butter and that the Ultra Rich Body Cream ups the moisture game with 25% of the nourishing botanical. So, how is the new Intensive Hand Balm different? It’s denser, richer, and almost waxier (in a good way) than either of the other two. The first hand cream and body version do resemble one another in terms of texture and density.

The same metal tube that made the classic… a classic, has been modified. The new chic powder white shade, is a thoughtful reflection of the brand’s take on the quintessential aroma evoked by the Shea Butter range of products. L’OCCITANE embraces the clean, creamy notes of baby powder but makes it fresh and sophisticated without losing the comforting warmth. It’s addictive. And chic.

For Very Dry Skin

If your hands are, like mine, chronically dry, (I still wash them every ten minutes even years after smoking) or simply affected by the winter weather, the new Intensive Hand Balm is perfect for you. It’s definitely meatier in texture than the 20% formula, but I’d describe it more as a lightweight balm than a heavy salve.

The elegant consistency warms to the heat of your body and absorbs amazingly well. Apply it at bedtime (if you have ashy elbows, this will eliminate the annoying issue overnight) and wake up to significantly softer, nourished, and younger looking hands. Try it during the day. Compared with other creams, it will keep your hands significantly more moisturized in between washes.

Is it greasy? It has Shea Butter, Sunflower Seed, and Coconut Oils in it so yes, it feels a bit oily at first. Don’t type, text, or work any kind of tablet for a few minutes – you can do it. Right? A little bit of patience goes a long way as this new balm is actually a very user friendly treatment. It sinks in fairly quickly.

If you’re a fan of the L’OCCITANE 20% Shea Butter Hand Cream you will appreciate the subtle yet powerful perks of the new Intensive Hand Balm. An ideal addition to your body care repertoire, this perfectly timed launch is one of my favorite recent dry skin solution finds.

$36 (5.2 oz.) at loccitane.com