We are slowly waking up to the fact that we regularly ingest, absorb and slap on a seriously scary amount of harmful chemicals. Synthetic parabens, phthalates, propylene glycol, mineral oil, petrolatum, paraffin - all menacing-sounding nasties that you'll probably find lurking in the lotions, creams and cosmetics coating your bathroom shelf - and linked to all manner of harmful effects, from premature ageing, acne, skin irritation and allergic reactions through to respiratory problems, cancer and infertility.
In a bid to create a flawless canvas for my bridal make-up - and kick-start a new approach to looking after my skin and general sense of wellbeing - I discarded the products I was using for my less-than-rigorous skincare regime and filled my dressing table with a set of shiny new products from Arbonne.
My bugbear with products claiming to be free of toxins and nasties in the past has been the fact that - as admirable as their principles may be - I've never been particularly impressed with the results. But when my make-up artist, Ella Butler, used some Arbonne products for my make-up trial, I began to wonder if this was a brand that bucked the trend.
"Having tried everything out there, from high street to prestige and industry specific brands to natural and organic, I felt that if I was ever going to attach myself and my reputation to a particular brand, it would have to be something pretty amazing!" says Ella, who is now Arbonne's Executive Area Manager. "Not only did Arbonne blow everything else I've ever tried out of the water in terms of performance, the company and their ethos is one of a kind."
Founded on ethical principles, Arbonne embraces pioneering technology in formulating its top-notch skincare and wellbeing products, which are free of toxins and endorsed by bodies such as the American Anti-Cancer Institute. "Arbonne has its own institute of research and development, which is developing formulations that are twelve years ahead of everything else in the world," says Ella. Their innovative FC5 range stands as a shining example, which utilises cutting-edge fresh cell technology to preserve the radiance of the skin.
And it's not just about skincare; the vegan-friendly and strictly cruelty-free product range is growing fast, and covers everything from baby care and hair care through to sun protection and nutrition solutions.
In my quest for a clear and radiant complexion, I opted for the RE9 Advanced routine, a comprehensive anti-ageing skincare system, which is chock full of powerful natural ingredients designed to restore glow and diminish the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. Two months before my wedding, I started using the cleanser, toner, eye cream, serum and moisturiser religiously morning and night. My skin instantly felt different - moisture-rich and dewy; within a few days, the visible effects started to take shape: my skin was smoother, clearer and firmer.
And, on my wedding day, everyone marvelled at my glowing complexion. Admittedly, a fair dose of happiness went into creating that radiance - but I have no doubt that my newfound skincare regime had a generous hand in it too.
For more information, visit www.facebase.myarbonne.co.uk or email Ella on makeupbyella@googlemail.com
MAKE-UP MARVELS
From primers and powders through to eye shadows and lip colours available in a spectrum of shades, Arbonne's range of make-up offers staying power, covetable colours and radiant results. We're loving the new mascara, 'It's a Long Story', which is just the ticket for creating lustrous aisle-ready lashes.
words Rebecca Matthews
Copyright Wed magazine 2013
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