i've tried just about all the shea butters out there. i haven't mentioned this before, but i used to be the "middle man" for lots of shea marketers in new jersey years ago; damn near 70% of the shea coming into the local markets passed thru my hands first.

i had all the flea markets and local shops.
but seriously, the l'occitane is different. take some of it and rub it in your hands until it's melted. and then, compare it to your other brands. to me, it stays "thicker," and provides a "pomade" type consistency.
also, different people have different skin and different hair grains. my hair is naturally straight and the l'occitane did me right-making my waves "sick." but now, at 38 yrs old, and my hair has been thinning since 02, but what i have left is still looking ok cause the women still comment.