A Mystery from the East
In 2023, a mysterious perfume from China captured the attention of fragrance enthusiasts. This oriental eau de Cologne, tested in a blind tasting by a French perfume retailer, was valued at an astonishing €60 per bottle. Yet its primary functions were not for aesthetic pleasure but for practical purposes: repelling mosquitoes, treating heat rash, relieving itching, and invigorating the mind. What makes this “multi-functional” fragrance so unique? The answer lies in its history and formula.
Brand History: From Double-Sister Fragrant Water to LiuShen Florida Water
The story of LiuShen Florida Water dates back to the late 19th century. In 1898, China’s first cosmetics company, Hong Kong Kwang Sheng Co., Ltd., was established. This pioneering enterprise laid the foundation for later Chinese cosmetic brands.
In 1903, Kwang Sheng opened its Shanghai branch, which soon became a renowned cosmetics business across the country. The same year, the company launched the “Tender Cream” under its Double-Sister brand, which won a gold medal at the Panama-Pacific Exposition in San Francisco in 1915. This marked China’s first recognition in international cosmetics.
Simultaneously, Kwang Sheng developed “Double-Sister Fragrant Water”, based on a British pharmacist’s formula. This fragrant water became one of the company’s classic products and laid the groundwork for the future LiuShen Florida Water.
In the 1950s, Kwang Sheng merged with other cosmetics companies to form Shanghai Star Chemical Products Factory. Then, in 1988, Li Huiyang, a graduate of Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, decided to infuse fragrant water with new functions: repelling mosquitoes, relieving itching, and eliminating odors. After extensive research, he incorporated six traditional Chinese herbal ingredients: menthol (creates cooling sensation), borneol (relieves burning sensation), Artificial Calculus Bovis (anti-inflammatory & analgesic), Artificial Musk (traditional Chinese medicine ingredient), Snake bile extract (clears heat & detoxifies) and Honeysuckle extract (enhances antipruritic effect).
In 1990, “LiuShen Florida Water” was officially launched. In addition to its new functions, it featured fresh, woody, powdery, floral, and strong diffusion properties—traits that resemble those of the iconic fragrance Chanel No. 5. This connection explains why LiuShen Florida Water commands such high international value.
Generational Memories: China’s Mosquito Repellent Wonder
LiuShen Florida Water is not just a practical product; it also holds emotional significance for generations of Chinese people. Since its introduction, its powerful mosquito-repelling, itching-relieving, and mind-invigorating properties have made it a must-have in Chinese households.
During summer months, families across China stock up on LiuShen Florida Water. Before stepping out, they apply the fragrance to their bodies to ward off mosquitoes. Its unique aroma—fresh, cool, with hints of musk and flowers—drives away insects while offering a refreshing escape from the heat.
For many Chinese, LiuShen Florida Water is more than a product; it’s a symbol of childhood memories, parental care, and familial traditions. Whether in cities or rural areas, its presence is ubiquitous, making it an indispensable part of daily life.
Product Development: From One-Size-Fits-All to Diversified Health Care
As times have changed, LiuShen Florida Water has evolved beyond its traditional bottle form into a diversified personal health care brand. Today, the product line extends far beyond mosquito-repellent fragrances, encompassing cleaning and bathing essentials.
(1) Fragrant Water Series
- Glass Bottle Series: The classic LiuShen Florida Water, preserving its original formula and scent.
- Aerosol Spray Series: A portable, fast-acting option for outdoor activities to quickly repel mosquitoes and relieve itching.
(2) Bathing Products Series
- LiuShen Cool Bathing Gel Series: Combines traditional herbal extracts for a refreshing bathing experience.
- LiuShen Angelica Skin Care Bathing Gel: Uses angelica root to gently cleanse and protect the skin.
- LiuShen Natural Extract Fragrant Bathing Gel: Blends natural plant extracts and fragrances to elevate your shower routine.
- LiuShen Concentrated Herbal Bathing Gel: Rich in concentrated herbal extracts for deep nourishment.
(3) Soap Series
- The LiuShen soap collection combines traditional Chinese herbal ingredients with modern craftsmanship to offer a cleaning and moisturizing experience.
(4) Hand Wash Series
- The LiuShen hand wash series features natural plant-based ingredients to cleanse hands while leaving a fresh fragrance.
(5) Baby Mosquito Repellent Fragrant Water Series
- A gentle, safe formula designed specifically for children to repel mosquitoes effectively.
Conclusion: The Future of LiuShen Florida Water
From its origins in 1898 with Hong Kong Kwang Sheng to its current diversified brand status, LiuShen Florida Water has journeyed through a century of evolution. It is not only a powerful mosquito-repellent product but also a pride of the Chinese cosmetics industry. With its unique fragrance, effective functions, and rich cultural heritage, it continues to win consumers’ favor both domestically and internationally.
Looking ahead, LiuShen will remain committed to safeguarding consumer health while driving innovation. Whether through its classic fragrant water or modern diversified products, LiuShen will uphold its century-old mission to bring quality and well-being to families worldwide.