Honestly speaking, the natural/organic/cruelty-free/guilt-free skincare trends have become quite overdone in the past few years. Worse yet, many of them use the Earth-friendliness of the brand as the only selling point, meaning beyond helping to save the world, it doesn’t really do much else. When hearing those terms, one may think it’s boring, ineffective and not up to par with fancy-sounding ingredients bearing scientific names.
Soin Sève de Vie uses a jade roller to calm the complexion.
However, a few brands have turned out to be quite effective. In France, one of the most popular organic skincare brands is Pure Altitude, which features edelweiss flower as its main ingredient. This ultra-strong flower, capable of withstanding extreme cold and intense sunlight, is found to have a self-defence molecule that enables it to survive harsh conditions. The edelweiss is a powerful natural protector against external stress and signs of ageing in the skin.
Now, wouldn’t it be wonderful if our skin could do the same?
Alisa Sirisant, director of Eliza Cosmetics who recently imported Pure Altitude to the Thai market, said that the products are packed with naturally nutrient-rich ingredients such as water from Mont Blanc, to make sure the skin gets the best nutrients without harming it with chemicals.
“Quality-wise, Pure Altitude is as good as many of the high-end brands from France, but the price range is lower because the maker of the brand wants good products to be accessible. It is all natural, so it is mild to the skin and does not cause allergies.”
Alisa spent six months in France learning treatment techniques from an expert, so that she can offer the same treatments in Thailand. In November last year, she decided to open a spa in Bangkok to bring the same standard of pampering in France to the Thai clientele.
Pure Altitude Spa, with only one treatment room, feels very cozy and private. Alisa said she does not want to open something too big or too commercial because she wants an intimate and personal feel. Sometimes, the spa owner even performs the treatment herself if she is not too busy, because she feels that she connects with her clients better and allows her to understand their needs more.
One of the best-selling treatments is Soin Sève de Vie (80 minutes, 3,000 baht) which utilises a jade roller to calm the complexion so that the products can work more effectively in restoring skin cells. The special massage technique, using firm, upward, strong patting movements, promotes blood circulation and stimulates natural collagen production.
The ritual begins with an organic cleansing milk to remove make-up, dirt and other impurities. Next, the skin is gently scrubbed with Gommage Flocons de Cereales, an organic exfoliant with Sweet Almond Shell Powder. The ultra-fine particles feel smooth and give just the right amount of friction, leaving the skin softer and silkier.
After refreshing with toner, the skin is massaged with Exilir de Maca, a fragrant oil that warms up the skin. The heat is good for blood circulation, but too much or too long can lead to skin problems such as acne and sensitivity. Thus, the roller comes into play. Made with high-quality authentic Chinese jade, the roller takes the heat out of the skin to calm irritation and reduce inflammation, while smoothing wrinkles and fine lines.
“Jade has been used as a beauty tool by the Chinese since the ancient times. It is naturally cool, so it absorbs the skin’s heat and calms it. This natural stone can aid in healing the skin, help detoxify, and reduce inflammation effectively,” said Alisa. She also emphasised that only authentic jade works effectively, and it needs to be taken care of properly, otherwise it loses its properties. Next, the skin is covered with vitamin C-rich Seve de Vie Masque. The treatment wraps up with a moisturising step using concentrated serum and emulsion to nourish the skin. Overall, the experience is incredibly relaxing and a perfect summer treat as the products feel very light and refreshing. The skin instantly feels softer and smoother and continues to feel that way for days, especially when coupled with using Pure Altitude moisturiser on a daily basis.
Ideally, the skin deserves this treat on a weekly or fortnightly basis to help it maintain optimum health. “If you give it regular care using good products and good techniques, you can virtually say goodbye to fillers and laser treatments, or at least need them much less. This is a more natural way to pamper your skin and stay young-looking,” said the owner of Pure Altitude Spa.
