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Beauty and health expert Liz Earle is the creator of the hugely successful Naturally Active Skincare product range.
Each product is a pampering, heavenly treat for the face, mind and body. Regularly appearing on television Liz is a passionate campaigner, co-founding the Guild of Health Writers and FLAG - the Food Labelling Agenda, and patron of the National Eczema Society. She is also author of a number of books.
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Liz joined us for a CoffeeBreak...
 Why did you develop the Naturally Active Skincare range and what do you believe has made it so popular?
 I knew from the research for my natural beauty and health books that many botanical and vitamin ingredients could have great benefits for the skin, but couldn't find the right products that contained them. So, in the time-honoured tradition, if you can't find what is best, you make it! Since its launch six years ago, it has grown in popularity mostly by word of mouth - because the products are fantastic and they really do work!
What tips have you for achieving a glowing complexion, especially throughout the winter months?
 Lots of moisturiser is essential - our Skin Repair cream contains the healing herb Echinacea and this really helps to strengthen the skin against the elements. Essential fatty acids are important too, both on the skin (look for ingredients such as borage, rich in nourishing GLA) and internally too in the form of food supplements. I take a combination of fish oils and evening primrose oil daily to help keep my skin supple and smooth. I'm passionate about the benefits of essential fatty acids for both beauty and health, which is why I wrote my latest book about them, New Vital Oils (£7.99 Vermilion).
What is Naturally Active Skincare's best-selling product to-date?
It has to be Cleanse and Polish hot cloth cleanser - an outstanding creamy cleanser that comes with a pure muslin cloth for gentle exfoliation. We've sold well over a million packs and it recently won best overall beauty product in the highly acclaimed Beauty Bible.
Liz Earle By Mail was recently joint winner of the Outstanding Customer Service Category of the ECMOD 2002 Awards. As winner of this award, what do you think makes Liz Earle By Mail so exceptional?
Without doubt, it comes down to the exceptionally high quality of service - from a friendly, cheerful and helpful person at the end of the 'phone right through to the speedy delivery of a beautifully tissue-wrapped product. Every parcel is a treat to receive and our phone operators are so popular that they get their own fan mail and Christmas cards from our customers!
Which are a couple of your favourite shops and why?
I love going in to Browns in South Molton Street and Sloane Street - they have such a terrific buying team that there's something on the rails for every occasion. I go to Rachel Riley for traditional childrenswear for my four children, although I must admit that I tend to wait for their twice-yearly sales! A lot of the time I buy from the web. I love internet shopping as it's such a fantastic time-saver.
 What is your philosophy for keeping healthy?
It's a question of balance. Hard work needs to be balanced with time out to sleep, talk to friends, walk in the fresh air and laugh a lot - the great thing is that these beauty and health essentials are all free!
How do you regard the beauty industry in general and the pressures it puts upon us? Do you agree with cosmetic surgery?
I don't tend to follow the industry that closely, as as a company we prefer to innovate and do our own thing. Obviously, using a teenage model to promote a skincare product aimed at a 40+ woman is not realistic, or particularly ethical. I'm not a fan of cosmetic surgery as I'm not convinced that the risks always outweigh the benefits, but it's a matter of personal choice. I wouldn't criticise someone if that was their choice. However, I do think it's sad if someone feels pressured into cosmetic surgery due to low self-esteem.
How do you like to relax and enjoy your time-off?
I like nothing better than to spend time with my husband and children, doing simple things together such as walking the dog or baking biscuits. Corny, but true.
What are you reading at the moment?
A book called Ten, living the ten commandments in the 21st Century, by J. John. An incredibly thought-provoking, challenging and humbling read. I recommend it for anyone interested in making more of life.
What is on your shopping list?
Norah Jones' CD and I'm also using the web to track down some eyebright seeds for my herb garden!
Further information...
Liz Earle's first store, Union, is on the beautiful Isle of Wight where their headquarters are based, too. As well as the complete Naturally Active Skincare range, you'll find some perfect presents to treat your friends, family and yourself.
tel: +44 (0)1983 813999
email:
web: www.lizearle.com
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