If there is one thing I love, it is scavenging through the personal care aisle at Ross Dress for Less. Recently, I stumbled upon a lotion that caught my eye immediately with its classic packaging: the Gardenia Body Lotion from the Italian brand Saponerie Mario Fissi.
After testing it for a few days, here are my honest thoughts on this “Made in Italy” product.
The Experience: Texture and Feel
The first thing I noticed was the texture. It is quite good and immediately gave me the feeling of being a “budget-friendly” version of a Korres moisturizer. For those familiar with the Greek brand, you know that is high praise!
However, the application has its own set of characteristics:
- “Foaming” effect: When spreading it, the lotion tends to lather slightly on the skin (a common trait in formulas with certain types of natural emulsifiers).
- Drying time: It is not an instant-absorption moisturizer; it takes a little while to dry completely.
The Scent: Intense and “Lunar” Floral
If you enjoy bold fragrances, this is the product for you. The scent is an intense floral that truly sticks to the skin.
In my opinion, it has a “lunar” aroma. It reminds me of the Night-blooming Jasmine (Cestrum nocturnum), bringing that vibe of a perfumed garden under the moonlight. It is sophisticated yet very present.
Packaging Information and Technical Details
Saponerie Mario Fissi opted for a cleaner approach for this specific line.
- Manufacturer: Saponerie Mario Fissi Srl (Scandicci, Florence – Italy).
- Volume: 200 ml / 6.7 fl. oz.
- Green Formula Label: The packaging highlights it as a “Green Formula” with natural extracts.
- Free From: Parabens and Petrolatum (Petroleum Free).
Ingredient List (Analysis)
The formula features an interesting base of vegetable oils and conditioning agents:
- Moisturizing Agents: Glycerin, Shea Butter (Butyrospermum parkii), and Aloe Vera Leaf Juice.
- Natural Oils: Coconut Oil and Sunflower Seed Oil.
- Antioxidants: Vitamin E (Tocopherol).
Editor’s Note: Even though the ingredient list is rich in butters and oils, in practice, I felt it could deliver a bit more in terms of deep hydration. It smells divine, but if your skin is extremely dry, you might need something more potent.
Final VerdictIs it worth it? If you find it at a bargain price at Ross, yes! It is an excellent everyday moisturizer, especially if you prioritize fragrance longevity. If you are looking for heavy-duty hydration that “melts” into the skin, it might fall a bit short, but it earns extra points for the nostalgic aroma and the more natural formula.
