L’Occitane Cade Aftershave Balm Review
Juniper seems to be the fragrance note of 2015, but everyone forgets that L’Occitane was doing it almost two decades ago. I personally have owned this balm for almost a year, but have just recently gotten around to using it regularly within the past month or so when i picked up a tube of the shaving cream and a puck of the shaving soap to review as well. I think I was a little hesitant to use is because of the price, but more on that in a bit.
First, a quick blurb on L’Occitane in general. I think most guys are familiar with the brand through the women in their lives. This is the store where they buy the fancy-smelling soaps and scented sachets that you aren’t allowed to touch. But the real secret is that L’Occitane has quite an extensive selection of high quality men’s products ranging from shaving supplies to cologne to the incredibly popular Plisson shaving brush. As I mentioned above, the prices are definitely on the higher side, but what L’Occitane lacks in affordability it certainly makes up in quality and value.
The “Cade” aftershave balm is no exception. Deceptively, this balm seems extremely thick upon first squeezing a dime-sized portion into my hand. However, once applied to my face, I found the balm to be extremely light while still powerfully moisturizing. This aftershave balm absorbs quite quickly and puts to rest any worries of developing a “greasy” complexion later in the day. While light and meant only as a compliment to the EdT, I also really enjoy the scent of this balm. I think when most people think of juniper, they think of gin, and that’s not necessarily a bad thing. In fact, Penhaligon’s recently pulled off a wonderful summer cologne based on the gin and tonic. But the “Cade” juniper is rounded out with sandalwood and rosemary for a more woodsy feel that works all year long.
Now you might think thirty-four dollars is a bit pricey for an aftershave balm, but like I said there is value here. First of all, a very little bit of this balm goes a long way. A very small dab (dime-sized or even less) is more than enough to finish off your shave. Secondly, the moisturizing and post-shave healing properties of the “Cade” balm make it well-worth every penny spent. Would I consider this a luxury item? Sure. It’s definitely a splurge purchase. However, it’s a splurge purchase you won’t regret.
Regards,