L’Occitane

Is L’Occitane an ethical brand?

L’Occitane, a global cosmetics brand, appears on The Good Shopping Guide’s Ethical Skincare Ratings Table, and has been independently researched for its consideration of the Environment, Animals and People. The brand receives a poor Good Shopping Guide ethical score in our Ethical Skincare Ratings Table and, therefore, does not pass our benchmark.

L’Occitane is owned by L’Occitane International S.A. and is based in France. Its full company name is L’Occitane en Provence and was founded in 1976.

In which areas does L’Occitane score well?

As L’Occitane has a statement confirming it does not use any GMOs in its products, it receives a top rating in the Genetic Modification criterion.

L’Occitane does not sell any certified-vegan products. However, as it has some uncertified products it claims to be vegan, the company receives a middle rating for Vegetarian/Vegan Verified.

In which areas does L’Occitane score poorly?

Unfortunately, L’Occitane is not cruelty-free, as the brand does allow its products to be tested on animals by a third party in countries where this is required by law, such as in-store in mainland China. This has resulted in L’Occitane’s bottom rating for Animal Welfare.

Additionally, L’Occitane does not have any certified-organic products and receives a bottom rating in the Organic category.

What can L’Occitane do to improve its ethical rating?

To improve its score in The Good Shopping Guide, L’Occitane should look to formulate certified-vegan and organic products. L’Occitane should also consider whether it really needs to sell in countries like mainland China, where animal testing is required by law.

If L’Occitane can achieve these ethical standards, then it would be able to apply for Ethical Accreditation by The Good Shopping Guide.