I am often given body moisturisers and lotions as gifts and although I moisturise a few times a week I still seem to have a never ending supply of the stuff. I feel fairly certain this is something I will never have to buy myself as I already seem to have a life time supply. One lotion I was pleased to receive was a 75ml bottle of L'Occitane Ultra Rich Body Lotion with Shea butter which came as part of a gift set.

- The Packaging -
I have a 75ml version of this lotion which comes in a round bottle but the 250ml version is square. Otherwise the bottles are much the same. The bottles are clear plastic with a blue and brown label displaying the brand and product information. There is a navy blue top with a cap lid that pops open easily enough but not accidentally. There is a small hole to dispense the lotion so you can accurately squeeze out as much as you require. I like that you can see how much lotion is left in the bottle and with bottles of this kind it is fairly easy to use most of it up. To ensure I get every last drop I usually cut bottles open for a final use. It is possible to do it with this bottle as long as you are careful not to cut yourself on the sharp plastic. I think the bottle is simple in appearance but it does look quite expensive and sophisticated. It is not particularly feminine so it is quite a unisex item. I find the bottle to be a practical container and attractive too.

- The Lotion -
The instructions on the bottle (also in Braille, I'm impressed!) state that the lotion contains Shea butter and honey and that it 'helps to nourish and protect dry skin'. It should be used in the morning and evening after having a bath or shower. This is when I tend to use it. The lotion has a good consistency, thinner than a moisturiser but not too runny. The smell is pleasant and again quite unisex as it is sweet and creamy but not in an exclusively feminine way. The lotion is easy to apply and leaves my skin feeling soft, smooth, hydrated and nourished, everything I expect from a lotion. It leaves my skin with a healthy glow too. It doesn't feel too greasy which is good.

- The Results -
After using the lotion a few times a week I would say that my skin feels soft, nourished and generally in better condition than it was before. I think it fulfils the aim set out on the label.

- Price and Availability -
This lotion is available from L'Occitane shops and their website. Some department stores also stock L'Occitane products. The 250ml bottle costs £18.50 while the 75ml travel version that I have is only available in gift sets. I think this is quite expensive but I suppose it is competitive compared to other luxury brands. I think it is too expensive to justify buying for myself.

- Would I Recommend? -
I would definitely recommend this body lotion as I like the bottle, the lotion has a good consistency, it smells pleasant and produces the desired results. I think the price would probably put me off buying it for myself but I would be delighted to receive it again as a gift.