- Category
Magic Power of Essential Oils
Category: Spa Product Date: March 2008
Howard is President and Co-founder of Aromatherapy Associates, a UK-based company set up in 1985 to develop specialized aromatherapy products and treatments to a professional and therapeutic standard for spas worldwide.
Geraldine has personally worked on all of the Aromatherapy Associates’ formulations and these best-selling blends, known for their high quality essential oils and naturally active ingredients, bear the hallmark of her influence. In designing the products, Geraldine stayed true to the traditional principles of aromatherapy massage using a unique pressure point technique that targets the nervous system, bringing mind and body back into balance.
A founder member of the International Federation of Aromatherapists (IFA), Geraldine formed its educational committee and went on to become the second chairperson.
In your opinion, which kinds of spa products are clients currently looking for? In terms of skin care I think today’s spa clients are mostly looking for anti-ageing products, and ones, which leave the skin feeling smooth and looking vibrant. Although there has been a trend for the scientific peels, I think many people also like to use daily skin products, which contain high levels of natural ingredients. For body care and general well-being, I think clients are looking for products to induce relaxation and release stress; products, which can improve their general well-being when introduced into their home lifestyle.
What is the biggest challenge in terms of coming up with the best spa products and what are the characteristics of the spa products for aromatherapy? My business partner Sue Beechey, and myself are both therapists so through working on our clients over the last 35 years we have learnt to understand what our clients both need and like in terms of treatments and products. It is then just a case of ensuring the quality of both are maintained which we do by overseeing the essential oil blends ourselves and implementing rigorous training in spas we supply.
Aromatherapy can add an extra dimension to all skin care products through the essential oils. For example Rose is a fantastic oil for all skin types since it improves the blood capillary circulation, assisting the cellular renewal process and generally improve the health of the skin. However, the aroma of Rose has an uplifting effect on our emotions, which gives an added benefit to the product. Frankincense is an essential oil we use in our facial products to tone the skin but the fragrance is helpful for people suffering from depression and anxiety so again adds another dimension to a simple skin care product.
What is your training system for products and how do you train the spas that use these products?We have a worldwide team of highly qualified trainers, who always ensure spa staff are fully qualified in using our products and treatments before we supply a spa. We also have detailed manuals for spas covering all protocols and product ingredients and their benefits. For the clients we supply literature to explain more about how and why to use our products.
What are your hobbies?I put great value in regular swimming and walking, preferably in the countryside or on a beach, because it combines mental relaxation with exercise. I really believe exercise is essential when you lead a busy life since it helps to release stress and maintain energy levels.
