If I Could Only Use One French Beauty Product, This Is What I'm Choosing
There's no denying that French beauty products are a cut above the rest. Whether it's makeup, skincare or even fragrances, the French know exactly what they're doing. So, it's no surprise that as a beauty editor, my bathroom cupboards are filled with French brands from Chanel, La Roche-Posay, Frédéric Malle and more. However, if you were to ask me what my favourite French beauty product of all time was, I would immediately know the answer, which comes in the form of a cult body product. Yes, I'm talking about L'Occitane's Almond Shower Oil.
This in-shower body oil is one of my absolute ride-or-die products. It smells incredible, leaves my limbs feeling silky soft and takes my daily shower to a whole other level. If you want to add a bit of French flair to a somewhat mundane activity, you need this product in your life. I've written a full review on the L'Occitane Almond Shower Oil below, so keep on scrolling for my key takeaways.
L'Occitane Almond Shower Oil Review
The Formula
If, like me, you suffer from dry skin, you will adore this hydrating formula. It's a sensorial masterpiece, packed with sweet almond oil, grapeseed oil and vitamin E. It starts with an oil-like consistency, but once it comes into contact with water, it transforms into a milky lather that gently cleanses and nourishes the skin. I also find that it makes my skin look more radiant, which is why I love using it in both the winter and summer months.
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The Scent
Whilst the hydrating formula is what makes this product stand out, the scent is just as good. It's a little more subtle than other body washes or body creams I have tried, but it has a warming undertone with hints of almond and vanilla that make it feel like a total treat. It's sweet, but in a sophisticated way that never feels sickly. I like to layer it with the brand's Almond Milk Concentrate (£46), to help it linger on the skin all day (or night).
How to Use
As mentioned, this is an in-shower product, so you use it a little differently from your standard body oil. Instead of applying it after your shower, you'll want to smooth it over wet skin whilst in the shower so that it transforms into that milky lather. I like to really take a moment or two to massage it into the skin before rinsing to enjoy the subtle almond scent, as it makes my whole routine feel so much more luxurious.
Shop the L'Occitane Almond Shower Oil
L'Occitane
Almond Shower Oil
I'm recommending this product to everyone I know this winter.
Shop More French Bodycare
Bioderma
Atoderm Cleansing Oil
Bioderma's body oil can also be used in the shower to sooth and hydrate dry, sensitive skin.
Avène
Xeracalm A.D Lipid-Replenishing Cleansing Oil
Another favourite from French pharmacy brand, Avène.
L'Occitane
Shea (Karité) Moisturising Shower Cream
L'Occitane also does a moisturising shower cream to nourish the skin.
La Roche-Posay
Lipikar Syndet AP+ Soothing Cream Wash
If you suffer from eczema, this gentle shower gel will help soothe itchy skin.
Bioderma
Atoderm Shower Gel
A soap-free formula that is also ideal for sensitive skin types.
La Roche-Posay
Cicaplast B5 Anti-Bacterial Cleansing Gel Wash
Part of La Roche-Posay's popular Cicaplast range, this cleanser can be used on the body, face and scalp.
Why Trust Us
At Who What Wear UK, we know that beauty isn’t one-size-fits-all. Our editors have tested thousands of products over the years—spanning skincare, makeup, hair and nails—and work closely with trusted experts including dermatologists, makeup artists and leading industry insiders to ensure every guide is well-researched, inclusive and relevant to you.
We focus on formulas that deliver, whether they’re affordable favourites or luxury investments. Our product selection is based on tangible results, ingredient know-how and what we’d truly recommend to a friend.
