I first fell in love with Aromatherapy Associates’ products in 2007 when I had my first Aromatherapy Associates facial and massage (which was heavenly – my skin looked a line-free as a child’s afterwards – I glowed like a cherub!). Since then, they have been equalled occasionally, but never bettered (hence their mention in my ‘To Die For‘ list of amazing beauty things). I gush, yes. With valid reason.
Aromatherapy Associates was founded by Sue Beechey and Geraldine Howard in 1985 to provide specialised aromatherapy-based treatments of a professional and therapeutic quality for leading hotels, spas and salons worldwide. Together, Sue and Geraldine have over 30 years of practical experience in treating clients and training therapists. They themselves were schooled in the Aromatherapy massage technique pioneered by Marguerite Maury, whose work was the foundation for the modern development of aromatherapy in the UK.
Today, Aromatherapy Associates have an enviable reputation in the spa market around the world. They are widely acknowledged as leading experts in the field of professional aromatherapy.
On an ethical basis, Aromatherapy Associates strives for sustainability of species at source and endorse fair trade practices. The environment is considered when it comes to their packaging – the cardboard used comes from sustainable resources and is, along with the plastic used for their bottles, recyclable. Aesthetically, Aromatherapy Associates products look chic in any bathroom or boudoir. The contemporary bottles and boxes with clean lines and simple labelling are functional (they are optimised to keep the potent active ingredients inside, which often read like some exotic and heavenly recipe, fresh and stable) as well as being stylish.
These products enliven your senses and look after your skin. The rose-based Essential Skincare products smell utterly delicious as well as giving you a gorgeous glowing complexion. Used together in indulgent layers, you’ll feel like you’ve been treated to a professional facial every time you apply them. Every so often its nice to splurge a little and invest in the entire range, so you can use them together as intended (“the complete ritual”).
This season, I’ve used the Rose Hydrating Face Mask (£34.50 / 100ml) whenever I’ve been out in the sun for a long period of time. Like a cooling ‘drink’ for your skin, its a gorgeous gel masque that you can just ‘feel’ doing the trick, hydration-speaking.
Afterwards, I apply the Rose Radiance Skin Serum (£37 / 50ml), followed by a facial oil (I’m currently using the Nourishing Facial Oil (£39 / 15ml) and then Triple Rose Renewing Moisturiser (one of Aromatherapy Associates’ best selling products, with toning, anti-ageing and anti-oxidant properties) (£51.50 / 50ml). Suitable for all skin types, the Triple Rose Moisturiser is the most indulgent moisturiser you’re ever likely to use. With a blend of three types of rose, red marine algae and frankincense, it is worth every penny.
Two or three times a week I’ve been using the Rose Exfoliating Cleanser (£25 / 100ml). A gentle cream exfoliator with damask rose, geranium and jojoba beads, it is ideal for delicate, dry and mature skins. Daily, I cleanse using the Renewing Rose Cleanser (£23 / 200ml) and Refining Skin Tonic (£23 / 200ml).
If I had to recommend a stand-out product (or three) from the range above, it’d be the Hydrating Face Masque, the Skin Tonic and the Triple Rose Moisturiser.
Wonderfully however, Aromatherapy Associates now offers an Essential Skincare Introductory Set (£31) so you can give all the products a try without breaking the budget. Once you’ve tried them mind, you’ll understand why it is one of life’s pleasures to have the complete collection. Cheaper than regular Spa visits, you’ll still feel wonderful after using them all. Your skin will too.
Retail stockists of Aromatherapy Associates include Liberty, Space NK and Fortnum & Mason. You can also order direct from Aromatherapy Associates online.