A Lesson in Line: Interview with Ada Polla and Rachel Johnson of Alchimie Forever
Gentleman, we've all done it. So please, let's bypass the "Brosky, I have no idea what you are talking about" blank stares. The truth of the matter is that we have all used our lady friend's facial products whether we would like to admit it or not. Maybe during a rushed morning shower where there were no other options but the Bath & Bodyworks Raspberry Surprise Facial Scrub? Or maybe just out of pure curiosity because the bottles are so damn colorful? Either way, you likely received a great result of having brighter skin for a day but unfortunately smelled like Strawberry Shortcake and while I might of had a major crush on Ms. Shortcake when I was 5, at 31 this just doesn't fly.
So what if we got rid of the middle woman and cut straight to the truth of the matter that even men want a facial product that will give them better skin just without the fairy princess after stench. Drum roll, please. Gentleman, let me introduce you to Alchimie Forever. Alchimie Forever is a Swiss skincare line that boasts dermatologist- formulated products each with combinations of antioxidant botanicals. In brosky-speak: These products are designed by accomplished professionals with natural ingredients that will make you look more like the King of the Block instead of the Chump on the Street.
Recently, I sat down with President & CEO Ada Polla, and Director of Communications Rachel Johnson to discuss the origins of Alchimie Forever, the men's line, and easy daily regimens for better looking skin. If the beauty of either of these women are any testament to the success of the Alchimie line, I would advise stocking up immediately.
What are the origins of Alchimie Forever? What is the inspiration behind the line?
RJ: The business was originated in Geneva, Switzerland and is family run. Dr. Luigi Polla, Ada's father, is a dermatologist and an expert in laser therapy and Dr. Barbara Polla, Ada's mother, is a biochemical researcher who focuses on antioxidants and how they relate to maintaining your skin. The line originated in 2003 as a result from the Forever Laser Institut which opened in 1997 in Geneva.
AP: I received a BA from Harvard University and my MBA from Georgetown University so my place within the company is to deal with the business side, mainly the development and distribution of the brand. The focus on the development of the brand is to have it in all the right places and on all the right faces. Currently we are distributed in Switzerland, Germany, UK, and SE Asia. We opened this space in Georgetown in 2009 so that we could not only use it as a headquarters for business purposes but to also have it serve as a showroom. While customers can buy products here, this space is mainly for visibility and to teach potential customers about the product if they have any questions.
RJ: We also have an amazing aesthetician, Rosario, who comes in a few times per month to provide Alchimie Forever treatments to our customers at the Georgetown location. However, appointments book up fast so it is best to schedule ahead.
What have you found is evident about men and their skin care regimens? How does Alchimie Forever compare to other skin care lines?
AP: Men are extremely loyal, if they find something that works for them. All men are different and have different preferences but we've found that men do care about quality. Men should realize it only takes a few minutes of their time a day to take care of their skin and a consistent regimen can produce noticeable results. With Alchimie, our products aren't oily to avoid any type of sheen on the skin after use and are highly concentrated so a little goes a long way. Also, the fragrances of the men's line are natural and masculine featuring the likes of rosemary, tomato, and basil. Tomatoes have the amazing antioxidant lycopene and carotene so we break down the entire plant for full use. Basil is known as the "king of herbs" because warriors used it during battle for their wounds because of its intense healing power. The use of it in our eye contour gel really helps to get rid of fine lines and reduce puffiness.
What kind of skin care product would you recommend for men in their 20s? 30s? 40s?
AP: For men in their 20s I would recommend, along side use of a regular face wash and SPF lotion, an aftershave that has little to no alcohol content. Alcohol can irritate and damage the skin. For men in their 30s, I would add an eye cream every day, twice a day. In fact the more you use it the better results you will see. For men in their 40s, I would use a corrective serum that has retinol about once a week and an anti-aging Vitamin A product a couple of times a week.
The HPG's Must Haves:
The Superpulse Eye Contour Gel is a definite must for any gentleman combating dark circles, fine lines, and puffiness under the eyes. The fragrance is appealing and you can definitely smell a hint of basil which also acts as an energizer in the early morning. Apply a small dab on your fingertip and apply in a circular motion from just below your eye to just below your eyebrow until it has been absorbed into your skin. After just two days of use, I noticed a major difference in the appearance of fine lines around my eyes as well a reduction of puffiness. I almost pass for a regular guy instead of just an overstressed third year law student. Well, almost.
The Gentle Antioxidant Refining Scrub will gently, as the name describes, scrub away dead skin to leave your face looking bright and fresh and not like you've been living in a frigid wind tunnel the last few months. Yes, I know that the website says this is for women but just trust me here. My advice is to use this once a week during your shower routine. Massage a small amount of the scrub with your fingertips around the contour of your face for a few moments and then wash it away. You'll feel and see the difference immediately. I swear. I mean if it can work for this old dog, if can work for anyone.
Check out Alchimie Forever or visit them at: 1010 Wisconsin Avenue NW Suite 201 Washington DC 20007. (202) 530-3930
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