ESPA are a brand whose holistic philosophy aims to care for their customer’s entire wellbeing rather than just their skin. Aiming to help people look and feel the best possible version of themselves, through both naturally beautiful skin and a renewed sense of inner calm, they were one the first brands to combine natural ingredients with the knowledge of science.
But who are ESPA? Here’s everything you need to know about one of the world’s leading spa brands…
The Philosophy
Found in over 700 spas in over 52 countries globally, it’s fair to say the brand is something of a giant in the wellbeing world. Founded 25 years ago by Susan Harmsworth, ESPA have made it their mission to help people achieve naturally beautiful skin as well as a renewed sense of inner calm.
Susan created the brand after becoming increasingly frustrated that she couldn’t find the type of treatments women were yearning for. After moving to Toronto whilst working as a writer for Vogue, she quickly became intrigued by the beauty traditions of the city’s Eastern European community.
“I’d come from a country where salons dealt only in beauty. Here though was a group of therapists who’d all studied medicine first. It was there that my vision – of combining health and beauty, the mind and body, the natural and the scientific - was born.”
“When I create a product, it has to be sensuous in texture and smell. Scent is crucial to mood.” – Susan Harmsworth, ESPA Founder.
What sets ESPA apart from other brands?
Working together with the world’s dermatologists, biochemists and aromatherapists the brand have developed a stellar product formulation. Known for their ‘Tri-Active™’ formulation, ESPA’s products combine three essential components that work harmoniously to create the most effective results. These are:
Plant ActiveThe plant active, such as Aloe Vera and Cucumber, work on the superficial layers on the skin and has an immediate effect on the skin.
Marine ActiveMarine actives, such as kelp and seaweed, are made from much smaller molecules. This means that that they are able to penetrate the deeper layers of the skin, helping with hydration, tone and remineralising the skin.
Aromatherapy ActiveAromatherapy actives have an even smaller molecular structure. This allows them to work systematically via the olfactory (smell) and transdermal (skin) absorption. It is this that allows aromatherapy products to penetrate much deeper than the skin – allowing them to create a calming effect on the body and the mind.
The hero products
Optimal Skin Pro Cleanser
A 3-in-1 cleanser, exfoliator and mask, the Optimal Skin Pro Cleanser is the ultimate product for the busy working women.
What’s in it? Like all ESPA products, this daily 3-in-1 gel cleanser is packed with natural ingredients such as Moringa Seed Extract which deeply cleanses and removes makeup. The expert Pumpkin Extract elements removes dull skin cells to reveal a smooth, healthy glow.
When to use: The cleanser is safe to use daily. Smooth a small amount over the face, neck and décolleté, carefully avoiding the eye area. Dampen the formula with warm water and massage into a circular motion until the Jojoba spheres melt and rinse with water or a damp muslin cloth.
Expert tip: To use as a mask, leave on for 15 minutes and allow to activate.
Optimal Skin ProSerum
This intensely nourishing serum has been expertly formulated to strengthen the skin’s natural barrier, even skin tone and minimize the signs of ageing.
What’s in it? Packed with Echium Oil and Sunflower Concentrate, the Omega rich ingredients help to strengthen the skin’s moisture barrier whilst it’s turmeric element brightens and evens skin tone. Perfect for those wanting to tackle the signs of ageing, the White Lupin ingredient firms and enhances elasticity.
When to use: Gently smooth over the face after cleansing and toning and follow with your favourite moisturiser.
Expert tip: Before applying drop a few drops into the palm of your hands and cup your face to inhale the aroma.
Fitness Bath and Body Oil
Globally adorned by both men and women, the Espa Fitness Bath and Body Oil works to soothe and relieve tired muscles.
What’s in it? Bursting with warming and stimulating ingredients such as Indian Bay and Clove Bud, this reviving product is best used before or after exercise.
Expert tip: If using in the morning use with the Espa Energising Shower Gel and Skin Brush for a perfectly energised start to the day.
