Avène
By Jessica, December 8, 2010
Eau Thermale Avène is a French skincare line that utilises the properties of thermal spring water for the treatment of sensitive skin. Launched in France in 1993, the range has more recently come to Ireland.
The key ingredient in all Avène products is their specially sourced thermal spring water. Originating as rain, the water filters through the mountain ranges of Avène in the south of France for up to 40 years, absorbing precious minerals along the way. It is then bottled directly from the spring at the end of its journey.
The resulting products are designed to be extremely gentle, using as few ingredients as possible. Synthetic colours and fragrances, parabens, and all other common irritants are omitted from the products, meaning they even claim to be suitable for use following surgery or procedures such as chemical peels.
The main focus of the line is sensitive skin types, with options available to treat intolerant skin, skin redness, wound care, dehydration, oily skin, ageing skin and dry skin. The belief is that many of these problems are either caused or aggravated by traditional cosmetic ingredients, and so gentle alternatives should be used to restore natural balance.
Products include cleansers, moisturisers, gels and various issue-specific lotions. Their best-seller is the spray can of the signature thermal spring water itself, for use whenever and wherever necessary.
Avène also have a Hydrotherapy Centre at their water springs in France where guests can receive thermal spring water baths, showers and sprays over a 21-day personalised treatment plan. They also offer treatments such as underwater massage and thermal spring water compresses.
Avène products are available from Boots and some Unicare pharmacies nationwide.
