I picked this up in the BR Vault, hoping it would be a little bit of luxury. On reading the reviews of the people who opened theirs before me, I was really hopeful that this would be a little tropical holiday I could take my skin on each day.
Instead, I'm on the fence.... it's overpriced and too strongly scented, but it is a lovely texture and a nice, light lotion.
The Essence of Fiji Frangipani Body Lotion comes in a sachet with a screw cap top, and looks a little like a juice or yoghurt pouch intended for children to take in their lunchboxes. The pouch is a gorgeous soft mid teal shade, and features artwork of a Fijian woman and frangipani flowers. It's a pretty little package.
The ingredients are clearly listed, and it's nice to see so many good oils going into the product...almond, macadamia, coconut etc. It also includes vitamin E, among other things.
The lotion itself is white and not especially distinctive on first look. It's mid-thickness, consistent texture and nicely creamy. It's a very light lotion and doesn't spread that well in my opinion.
I find the scent overpowering. I can definitely smell frangipani above all else, but they have added patchouli to try and break the sweetness with a little spice so it is a little softer around the edges. I would never use this on my entire body as I think it would be way too much. I just use it on my feet and hands.
The lotion leaves no residue on the skin and absorbs quickly. It's very light, so hands feel nice but not especially hydrated. It's more of a liquid fragrance than a moisturising cream.
I will use the pouch, but wouldn't repurchase, nor would I gift it to anyone unless I knew they liked it. It's such a strong, distinctive scent for a very middle-of-the-road lotion that I doubt it would appeal to everybody - although so saying I know of a few BR girls who adore it. It's just not my thing :)
I picked this up in the beauty vault and it is a product that stands out.
My first impression was 'yikes, that's small!' This is only 100ml, which is small for a $30 body moisturiser.
My second impression was 'I like the packaging'. While it is a little reminiscent of baby food, parents prefer that packaging for a reason - it's easy to get everything out! It is also perfect for travel, easily squishing into an over-full toilet bag!
Ok enough about the look, what was it actually like? The product had that perfect consistency, moisturising without being oily, leaving your skin feeling beautiful. I found the scent very strong, but hubby, who is quick to complain if he doesn't like a product I wear, asked me what I was wearing that smelt so good! Now I always put it on before bed, knowing I can go to bed feeling moisturised and smelling like a Fijian flower!
The price is a deterrent, but if you decide to spend the money you won't be disappointed.
Tips: This scent is very strong, so don't wear strong perfume unless the scents are complimentary.