There are certain topics on the Beauty Brains that spark vigorous debate. Supporters provide a tenacious defense of their favorite products despite limited proof of effectiveness. Jan Marini and the eyelash growth product is one and Arbonne products are another. This post concerns the later.
Recently, we received an email from Christine who is a self-proclaimed Arbonne representative. She is proud to report that she’s a true believer who has “drunk the Koolaid”. You can see all of her comments in our previous Arbonne post.
She took issue with the fact that we suggested Arbonne products really weren’t much different than store brands. We’d like to respond to some points made in her comments because they are instructive in how to be a skeptical cosmetic consumer.
What does it mean to research a topic?
I spent three years of law school learning how to learn, so I researched Arbonne quite thoroughly before deciding to jump in with both feet
We hear this claim fairly often. People write in and explain how they’ve researched a product. Unfortunately, they rarely describe what was involved in this research. Did they go to the website and just read what was published by the marketing department of the company? Did they go to internet forums and see what people were posting about the products? Did they just read opinions on beauty blogs or hear something from their stylist? While these sources are helpful for product information, they are not really “research”. Each of these is full of biased opinions that may or may not be reliable.
Real research is a combination of product information plus intimate knowledge of raw materials, familiarity with formulating techniques, and experience with numerous laboratory evaluation techniques. Ideally, there would even be peer reviewed research published in a journal like those found at PubMed.
Here at the Beauty Brains we try to use our background in product formulation and sometimes even actual laboratory product evaluations to generate our opinions. Christine is correct to say that these are still just “subjective opinions” but unlike most, we have no products to sell you and we are not trying to convince ourselves we didn’t overpay for a product. Hopefully, this allows us to provide the most unbiased evaluations possible.
Is the technology really different?
The commenter makes the point that there are “THREE KEY THINGS” that make Arbonne different. Only one of these has to do with the product.
The first thing is Arbonne’s technology, and the delivery system of the product. Most beauty products are made up of great ingredients - they can be the best on the market. However, they often do not penetrate directly to the epidermal cells that need the moisture the most. The do not self-adjust. Arbonne uses a technology called Nanosphere technology - look it up…The nanosphere technology takes the medication, or the product, in our case, directly to the cellular areas that need it the most. Arbonne’s moisturizers do not sit on the skin like most other brands do. The product not only penetrates down from the top epidermal level, but does its work where it is needed the most. Superior product? Not necessarily. Superior delivery? Definitely.
It’s common for people to tell us that their technology is different. Arbonne’s “superior” technology is a thing they call Nanospheres. But this is the same type of technology that companies like L’Oreal and P&G have. This doesn’t make them different.
And while nanosphere technology may sound superior to some, it scares many experts in the nanotechnology field. In the US, nanotechnology is unregulated even though it has the potential to cause unexpected harm. You don’t want your cosmetics to penetrate your skin! When they do, they can get into your body and potentially cause harm. Superior technology does not penetrate. At present, we recommend you avoid products that say they contain nanotechnology.
Finally, despite the safety concerns of nanotechnology there is still no proof that Arbonne moisturizers, body washes or shampoos work any better than typical store brands. Could someone show us an independent side-by-side study comparing Arbonne moisturizers to Olay?
Beauty Brains Bottom Line
There is no doubt that Arbonne produces a high quality product. However, we stand behind our original assessment that they are technologically not much different than brands you can get at the store. With the exception of sunscreen, we also suggest you avoid cosmetics that claim to have nanotechnology. In the future, we will do a more extensive post on nanotechnology.
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Teri - Aging Fabulous Says:
Thanks for once again, putting your knowledge out there for us. I see Nanotechnology everywhere as well, as I myself, have been skeptical about it as well. There are so many chemicals in some products that I would be afraid to have them go into my body.
I can’t wait to read more about your nanotechnology coverage.
Evelyn Says:
You should be afraid. But not of Arbonne products. Everthing you touch
penatrates your skin and enters your body and organs in about
30 seconds. If you don’t believe that peel a garlic clove, place it between
you toes and time how long before you taste it.
Arbonne doesn’t use mineral oil which is only second to the sun in
causing aging. No artifical dyes or fragances in Arbonne products.
Cosmetics companies use fragance to cover the animal by-product smell
thebeautybrains Says:
Evelyn, thanks for your comments but we have to correct you on several points:
1) Everything you touch penetrates your skin and enters your body and organs in 30 seconds: This simply not true. Just because some things do penetrate, that doesn’t mean everything does. And it certainly doesn’t mean it enters your organs. That’s just ridiculous.
2) Mineral oil is only second to the sun in causing aging: Absurd! Dermatologists agree that UV radiation is one of, if not THE, leading cause of aging. Show us one shred of data to support your statement.
3) Cosmetic companies use fragrance to cover animal by-products: This is true for a few formulas that use high levels of collagen or other animal proteins. MOST products don’t have enough animal protein to create a base odor problem in the first place. Have you ever formulated a product? We have, so we know.
Again, we appreciate your comments but we WILL NOT allow you to use our blog to spread this kind of misinformation to our community.
Caroline Says:
OK, I am sorry, I just have to. I have a PhD in Molecular Biology and the above post is just absurd. You must be a salesperson for the company. None of those products can reach the dermis layer of skin, where damage is done. First, the molecules are too large. Next, that would make it an FDA issue, not one for snake oil salesmen. Just because you can smell garlic does not mean it is in your body. After you ingest it, OK. Is the garlic trick used at the Arbonne parties? If everything we ever touched entered our bodies and ORGANS, oh, never mind. The mineral oil thing is pure hyperbole. Hello, genetics. Or does science have no place in the world of Arbonne? And lastly, if these products contain no synthetics, how are they shelf stable? And for the love of Pete, how bad do they smell? I would love to see some structural formulas for them. Pretty darn sure if you submit an ingredients, I could find some masking scents. I bet they could use you at creme de la mer. I am sorry to be harsh, but what you have posted is just nonsensical.
Right Brain Says:
Thanks for the supportive comments, Caroline. We might have to make you an honorary Beauty Brain!
debbie Says:
Since you have brought this subject up and I’ve been thinking about it, what is the general amount of time that something does penetrate the skin? Sometimes I’ll apply different creams to my skin, so how long should you wait before you apply the second cream so you can get the benefit of the first one applied?
Fire Pits Says:
Why haven’t I paid more attention to the comments on this site? They are so fun. I hope Evelyn won’t be intimidated out of posting her bizarre factoids.
Brigit Says:
Yes Caroline, snake oil salesman sounds about right. Trying to get a microsphere, or nanosphere for that matter, into the epidermis is the equivalent of trying to force a billiard ball through the eye of a needle. Also, targeting delivery to specific tissue is no easy feat. Biologists have to use an arsenal of signaling molecules to achieve it and it’s still a pain. Oh, and these signaling molecules are, by definition, bioactive and thus can’t be used in cosmetics.
The second wave of misinformation is even funnier. The skin is an organ in its own right, and functions as a barrier that protects the rest of the system from the outside environment. It does such a good job that patients born with skin disorders in which the barrier is compromised (the skin is too thick and breaks over, or it’s too thin)have short life expectancy. The compounds that can cross the skin barrier are controlled. Examples are acrylamide (which can crosslink DNA), mercury, DTT, and BME.
patientia Says:
If everything could penetrate skin - there would be no injections.
thebeautybrains Says:
I continue to be impressed with the intelligence of many of the Beauty Brains community. Keep up the great work!
Traci Says:
If things can’t penetrate the skin, why are there nicotine patches and birth control patches? Consider this quote
” Several compounds found in cosmetics are just as complex as medication,they are absorbed through the skin, flow through the bloodstream, are expelled by the kidneys, or stocked in cells or even in the liver. Yet, the laws regulating their use are far less restrictive than those regulating drugs,” concludes Dr. Marceau. British Journal of Dermatology http://www.news-medical.net/?id=23467
Jan Says:
Traci, some things such as nicotine and estrogen can penetrate skin, however, others can’t. They’ve been working on intradermal insulin delivery for years and never managed to do it.
MoxieHart Says:
*Le sigh* This is why I love this site. Your use of science is awesome, especially since it’s so lacking in magazines.
thebeautybrains Says:
Traci, the assumption that the cosmetic industry, pharmaceutical industry, and just about any other industry is that materials do not penetrate the skin until proven otherwise. It’s just impossible to “prove” that compounds do not penetrate the skin. You can’t prove a negative. That’s why when someone makes a claim that a material penetrates the skin, it is up to them to prove that it’s true.
The study you site about DMAE refers to studies done “in vitro” not actually on living organisms. He provides no proof that DMAE can penetrate the skin. He only shows that if certain cells are exposed there is slowing down of cellular activity. In fact, he even says “We’re not saying DMAE is dangerous to people exposed to it”
As far as Dr. Marceau last statement, he provides no specific compounds so it’s difficult to comment.
Traci Says:
Dear Caroline,
Have you tried putting garlic between your toes? I did. You will be surprised. I also tried oranges. No taste of them but I did get a reaction.
Dear Brigit,
Are you saying that even with nanosphere technology, you still can’t penetrate the skin? If this is correct, why is the Beauty Brain advising against using it except for sunscreens?
And Beauty Brain, thank you for your reply. I have another quesiton regarding the new concern with phthaletes in consumer products. Specifically in nail polishes. Isn’t the only way for them to be a problem is if it is absorbed thru the nail bed? And if that is true, do the nails act differently than the skin is regards to absorbtion?
Brigit Says:
Traci, encapsulation methods are used for the containment of active ingredients for many different purposes. One of the most important uses nowadays is to control the release of certain molecules or drugs. This can be used to deliver medication in a specific area of the digestive system, increasing the absorption where it’s necessary, and sometimes protecting the molecule from digestive enzymes. This decreases the number of medications that have to be delivered intravenously and/ or the amount of a certain drug that has to be ingested. This is very relevant in avoiding unwanted side effects in a patient.
Another use is sustained delivery. This is done by using polymers that degrade predictably in a certain amount of time. Most of the times I’ve seen some product boasting of nanospheres, it is done in this sense. It would make sense that if “x” compound works for a certain amount of time and you want a product to be long lasting, you could encapsulate some of this ingredient so that it is released at a later time. If this product has “nanosphere technology” it would work in that sense.
Penetrating the skin in a controlled predictable manner is not as easy as just releasing “stuff” in a predictable manner. The outermost part of the skin, the stratum corneum , is composed mainly of dead cells. Keratin helps it retain moisture, and and it also absorbs water. The layer underneath these dead cells is the Stratum granulosum. It has squamous cells that synthesize keratin that moisturizes the stratum corneum. These cells do not need added moisturizers, as their job is not to preserve moisture but to synthesize proteins.
I would doubt that there would be any benefit in putting moisturizing agents in that cell layer. Even more, I would be preoccupied of the effects of these moisturizing agents in the extracellular matrix of these cells. As always, I’m open to good data proving the contrary, but this approach to moisturizing does not make much sense to me.
thebeautybrains Says:
The sad part is that when companies put things like Nanotechnology or nanospheres in their products, it’s almost always just a claims gimmick. There is so little of the ingredient in the formula that if someone forgot to put it in, no one would ever notice. I know this is true because I’ve worked for companies that do it!
While we suggest staying away from nanotechnology at the moment, the reality is that it’s a pretty low risk when it comes from a skin lotion.
If Arbonne really thought their nanotechnology was a great moisturizer, there wouldn’t be anything else in the formula except maybe a water carrier. The fact that they use all the same ingredients that other companies use certainly says something, doesn’t it?
my fall collection Says:
Wow, I am soooo impressed right now. Not just with the Beauty Brains, but with Caroline, and Brigit and all the other science-heads who contributed to these comments. It really makes me happy and proud-to-be-a-girl to know that there are such knowledgeable, well-spoken, and rational women out there who go home and read the same fun blogs as I do. I mean… it totally breaks up the stereotype I have in my head of women scientists.
Oh, and also… I hope this doesn’t turn anyone off law school (re: Evelyn’s self-introduction about law school teaching her to learn…)!
Lee Says:
I am so disappointed in the rude assumptions I found in this blog. If this is meant to be a serious website for people to find the “most unbiased evaluations possible”, why is it that someone gets slammed by being called a snake oil salesman and another gets her law degree made fun of because she did not provide the details of where she conducted her research? You could have simply asked her to do so.
I would like to know if The Beauty Brain, Caroline or Brigit has ever tested the Arbonne products or read the ingredient lists? I just want to be sure because I don’t think it is fair to put down a product one hasn’t tried or taken the time to research themself.
The Beauty Brain says that Arbonne uses all of the same ingredients as other companies. My question is, do other companies use the same formula? Have you compared the lists and the amount of each ingredient used in their formulas? Many companies say they use Vitamin C, but how much do they use in their formula and what grade did they use? Can’t this make a difference in the quality and effectiveness of a product?
thebeautybrains Says:
Lee, so sorry you took offense. The Beauty Brains were not trying to be rude. It happens so often that someone says they “researched” a topic and then expect everyone to just accept them at their word. This is not how science works. Science requires that people back up their claims. But not with lawyerly or doctorate degrees but with proof. In science, a high school drop out can raise just as legitimate a claim as a PhD. They just have to provide evidence.
The Beauty Brains have tested Arbonne products and have read the ingredient lists. We also were not putting the product down. Arbonne makes fine products. We just don’t believe they are any better than anything you could buy at your local grocery store. Arbonne is saying they are. We say “prove it”.
Other companies probably don’t use exactly the same formula. But if you know something about cosmetic and personal care formulations then you would know that minor adjustments in ingredient levels have only minor effects. Effects that are typically not noticed by most people.
You’re right that many companies will use a tiny amount of Vitamin C in their formulas. Maybe Arbonne uses more. But explain to us, what exactly does Vitamin C do for you when you slather it onto your skin? I know of no scientific study that shows even pure Vitamin C rubbed on your skin would have any benefit.
Again, we’re sorry if you found any of our comments rude. We can’t speak for other people who post comments on this blog. They are entitled to their opinion too. But if Arbonne products are better than anything else you could buy, we would just like to see proof. Based on our knowledge of ingredients and cosmetic formulations, and firsthand experience, there is nothing special about Arbonne.
Caroline Says:
Lee:
I believe it is clear my post was in response to the statement everything you touch enters your organs. The product is almost a non-issue to me. All natural is a great marketing hook. Lets face it, mineral oil is natural, being a product of the earth, no? All natural is in the eye of the beholder. As far as testing the products, on myself yes. Have I taken them to work and done an entire analytical chem test, of course not. The ingredients are suspect unknown me, as my hostess was unable to provide me with a list . It goes beyond the ingredients, but the way it is formulated. A drop of some great ingredient is not s*&t if it needs to be two drops to get the benefits. But if I said this ingredient is in my lotion, I am not really lying and can market the hell out of it.
The body sea salt scrub I got clearly has butylparaben in it. The same butylparaben regulated by the FDA. Butylparaben, according to the NIEHS has a toxicological characterization. The EPA has been keeping an eye on parabens for a long time, concerned with all those nasty estrogenic effects in those nice little lab rats. So what is any paraben doing in an “all natural” line? Keeping it shelf stable and void of bacteria I would guess. I am by no means saying this is not safe. Of course it (probably) is. Only to make the point many companies play fast and loose with the organic, natural BS. Since butylparaben is synthetically produced, can you still call it “all natural”? Lucky for Arbonne, and many, many other cosmetics companies the need not worry about that since it is a cosmetic and can say whatever it pleases within reason.
I do not believe my post was rude, but I feel misinformation for the sake of money is. I am all for any female doing well and being able to support herself. I just think there is no honor in taking other women’s hard earned money so a rep can get her white benz. The last time I checked, the makers of retin a were not giving out cars. They do not have to, the proof is in the pudding for them. I am sure it gets old, having to forever defend this product in the face of intelligence and common sense. I am sure all of us know if there ever is a true miracle, it will cost a billion dollars and there will be a line around the world to get it. And here in the US, it will not be sold from someone’s home. When the miracle comes, you will know it. Do you hear me Creme de Mer?
kelly Says:
I switched from Lancome to using these products: Arbonne, Yves Rocher, and Avon because of the animal testing issue. I have no problem whatsoever with paying more money if it means that no rabbit, monkey or puppy had to suffer so I can smear lipstick on my face. I do think that is a scientific and very rational explanation for paying more for a similar product. It’s not the “what” in my mind, it is the “how”…
Lee Says:
Thank you to the Beauty Brain and Caroline. I appreciate your time and information. I’m still doing my research on Arbonne’s ingredients and effectiveness and so far I think they do have a superior product. I’m not a scientist, but I am an intelligent and educated consumer. There may be some products in the drugstore that compare, but finding them and trusting their integrity is like looking for a needle in a haystack. To set the record straight, Arbonne’s products are not all natural nor do they make that claim. You are right Caroline, Arbonne uses some preservatives to stablilize their products in order to give them about a 2 year shelf life. Correct me if I’m wrong, but most drugstore products have enough preservatives in them to last 10-20 years.
There are some misinformed consultants out there that need to make sure they have their facts straight. They also need to learn that they can find a complete ingredients list on the Arbonne consultant website and make it available to any customer that is interested.
Before I forget to mention, I wasn’t saying that Vitamin C was the magic ingredient. I was making the point that not all grades of ingredients are the same and one formula could prove more effective than another because they used superior ingredients.
Since the topic of Retin A was brought up, I’ve heard it can be harmful if used for long periods of time. Is this something you could tell me more about? It has been prescribed to me in the past for some minor irritation on my cheek. I let my doctor know that I wasn’t interested because of the side effects. I didn’t feel it was necessary to use a product that caused redness, irritation, flaking and sensitivity to the sun for a minor issue. And sorry, but I have to point this out…pharmaceutical companies do give their sales reps cars along with some very generous monetary incentives.
Left Brain Says:
Thanks so much for the comments. Just a couple of things.
1. You are mistaken. Drugstore brands do not contain enough preservative to make the products last 10-20 years. The shelf-life of drugstore brands is only about 1-2 years. This is no different than Arbonne products. People shouldn’t use any cosmetic that is older than 2 years no matter where it comes from.
2. Arbonne does not make it easy for regular consumers to get their ingredient lists. In the future, regulations in the beauty industry will require it. Hopefully, they will comply.
3. I agree that grades of ingredients are different. The point we were making was that Arbonne products do not perform superior to others when put in side-by-side, blinded testing. At least, we’ve never seen any studies that show this.
4. As far as Retin A goes, if you don’t feel comfortable using it, then you shouldn’t. Ideally, people wouldn’t need to use chemicals to improve their appearance. There is always a risk when you expose your body to any chemical! If you can avoid it, you’d be better off. However, most people don’t want to endure things like acne, psoriasis, or redness so chemicals like Retin A can help speed up the process. There are no long-term exposure risks to Retin A as far as I can find.
Thanks for your comments and keep up with your research. If you really want to see if Arbonne products are different take one of their lotions and compare it side by side with a store brand lotion from Olay, Dove or Vaseline. Ideally, you would do this in a blinded fashion (unmarked bottles). You may be too biased to get a good sense of the difference but give both samples to a friend and don’t tell them what you are doing. See if they can tell any difference. Trying it with 10 friends is even better.
Left Brain Says:
The “no animal testing” claim is not exactly genuine. All the ingredients used in Arbonne’s products have been tested on animals. They are no different than anyone else in the beauty industry.
See our previous post on the subject.
The Truth about Animal Testing in Cosmetics.
Annabelle Says:
What an interesting debate about Arbonne! I just recently started using the facial products and absolutely LOVE them. They may not work for everyone, but they work for me. For my entire life (since I was in middle school), I’ve been trying just about every face product under the sun - from cheap drug store stuff (like Clean & Clear), to more expensive stuff at Bath & Body Works, to “natural” stuff like Burt’s Bees. When my friend, an Arbonne consultant, was trying to sell me on the product, she gave me a demo kit to try. At first I was skeptical that it would be any different than the stuff I’ve been using my whole life, but tried it anyway just to play along. I was shocked at the difference it made with my skin. I didn’t break out at all (which is common for me using new products), the moisturizer didn’t leave a shiny, oily residue on my face, and the cleanser and toner didn’t dry my face out. My skin finally felt balanced and healthy! To compare, I do still use Olay lotion with SPF 15 in the morning, and that always leaves my face looking shiny (which I cover with makeup anyway so no big deal). You say that Arbonne stuff is no different than any other stuff, and that may be true on a certain level, but my skin doesn’t seem to think so! I WISH my skin would respond equally well to cheap drug store stuff. It would save me a lot of money that’s for sure! Anyway, I’m not discrediting your research, or being critical, but for whatever reason different people’s skin reacts differently to different products, regardless of what is in the ingredient list. Perhaps it has to do with genetics or the individual nature of one’s skin? Everyone has to find what is right for them, and I’m glad I found what is right for me.
(I apologize if my testimony sounded too “salesy” – I don’t sell Arbonne, it’s just the way I write.)
Lois P. Smith Says:
It is not true it is hard to get Arbonne’s list of ingredients for their products. I just printed 123 pages where each ingredient is listed and tells whether it is a plant, mineral or science product. It is available off of their web site. I am an Arbonne consultant and I do not know if a consultant number is needed or not. I wanted to have it available in case anyone wanted to know exactly what was in the products.
Kristel Says:
I was just about to order some Arbonne, but first wanted to find info on the safety of nanospheres. This is how I came across your very helpful site. Can you recommend a brand of skin care products, specifically night cream and hand/body lotion, that you have no (or fewer) safety concerns about and that are less expensive?
Also what do you think about the Environmental Working Group’s Skin Deep Safety Database?
shirley Says:
Wow- so much to say…
I have to say I agree with the other writer, your comments were very rude and discredits your integrity as a factual site. There are plenty of ways to tell someone they are inncorrect without making them feel like a moron.
And it should be said that for every company out there there are misinformed employees. Cut these Arbonne ladies some slack! I would rather these ladies to return to find out what they are selling and not be discouraged by harsh remarks.
I honor any woman who takes control of her life and strives to make it on her own and not wait around for some deadend job/system to solve her problems.
I have tried almost all of the arbonne products. To compare them to other drugstore products baffels me. Have you really tried them? All of them?
I will admit that there are some that haven’t given me the best results, but most of them show results where other products do not.
Please let us know the process on which your site compares/test products?
Does your research extend into Arbonne’s Hybrids?
thanks!
Connie Says:
You asked what are botanical & herbal principles? Botanically based is a blend of science and nature based on herbal and botanical principles. These principles are herbal and botanical ingredients (plant-based) that we use as our agents. These are natural complexes that are truly beneficial for long-term visual health of the skin. We use organic herbs and extracts when available. However we are NOT and DO NOT CLAIM to be 100% NATURAL or 100% ORGANIC.
Arbonne’s website states, “The more Arbonne knowledge you have, the better-prepared Consultant you will be. For this reason, Arbonne has a valuable library of resources available to Arbonne Consultants.” This library is where I found information concerning controversial ingredients like parabens,quaternium-15, aluminum and others. Arbonne also refers us to the following sites for more information; CIR Board and the CTFA who they say are unbiased and extremely reputable.
You say the problem with our products is that we don’t live up to our natural claims. Well when asked if our products are certified organic this is Arbonne’s answer “Many botanical ingredients used in Arbonne’s products are organic, from the perspective of having been grown without harmful chemicals or pesticides. Not all ingredients are available as organic which is why we cannot make such a claim. Know that we always choose organic when it is available.”
Other companies may be pH-correct, hypoallergenic, dermatologist tested and all the other things we are proud of, as a consultant for this company. I just asked people to try it in their home for 3 or 4 days and let me know what they think, how it makes their skin feel. If they love it and it’s better than anything else they’ve use then great if not then that’s fine also.
As for the mineral oil, other companies may not use it but go to Wal-Mart and make a list of lotion that does not use mineral oil, how many can you find?
Arbonne has Mineral oil under the product knowledge. It tells what it is, why they choose not to use it and the facts. It is an occlusive oil, which when used in skin care formulation creates a protective barrier or sits on the surface. In poorly refined, high concentration mineral oil may become comedogenic. Because of Arbonne product philosophy of pure, safe and beneficial, they choose not use mineral oil because they believe it is not beneficial for daily skin care use. They use other oils such as jojoba, almond and wheat germ that do not have extreme occlusive properties. The facts are that unsubstantiated claims regarding mineral oil are often found on the internet and in cosmetic marketing propaganda claiming mineral oil is carcinogenic, can leech vitamins and minerals for the skin and causes dehydrations. Mineral oil is harmless when used for intended purposes. Mineral oil is inexpensive, rarely causes allergic reaction and is widely used in the cosmetic industry. It can offer positive results when used for specific medical conditions where setting up a temporary protective barrier to aid skin repair is necessary, such as laser surgery, burns and skin grafting.
Some consultants may have heard of that there was a study at John Hopkins that states mineral oil is the second biggest cause of aging next to the sun (UV radiation). However, that’s not exactly correct. Dr. Obagi, a dermatologist that does the grand rounds at John Hopkins doesn’t believe in the use of mineral oil. Hopkins added a skin health course for the residents and their text states “skin care products that use ingredients like mineral oil is the second cause of the visual sign of aging next to sun exposure Therefore surgeons and residents at Johns Hopkins are being taught that mineral oil isn’t a desirable ingredient to use in skin care product. As you pointed out there are other companies that choose not to use mineral oil and these companies marketed their product as “mineral oil free”.
I’m certainly not asking someone to take me at just my word; I’m giving them the opportunity to try the product in their home with no obligation to buy.
We may be able to label our products as hypoallergenic if 5 out of 10 people have no reaction but we don’t. Our products undergo several tests by an independent lab prior to marketing. One test is the RIPT; the product only goes to market if there are absolutely NO reactions. With these results we feel that the MAJORITY of the population can use the product without a reaction. You are correct about not having any specific guideline to follow. We are not required to test the product but we do voluntary test to ensure the products are safe for the consumer.
The question was is Arbonne the best skin care you can buy? I have seen and heard testimonies from people that used the products, they have tried other products and even prescription products but they report only having results with the Arbonne products. I can send pictures and letters showing and stating Arbonne has superior products. One pictures shows the result of using the old products on one arm and the Arbonne products on the other and they are amazing. But the true test is by each individual, and we let you try the product before you buy it and we do have the 45-day money-back guarantee.
The reason we don’t use dyes and fragrances is because they are known irritants and can cause allergic reactions. But occasionally Arbonne will incorporate a fragrance in specialty bath and body skin care products and the inclusion is clearly marked and is tested for any adverse reaction.
You say Stratum granulosum cells do not need added moisturizers, as their job is not to preserve moisture but to synthesize proteins. Water to hydrate and oil to moisturize is needed. Water is needed to float the elastins to hold the collagen and protein in place that give your skin a firm appearance. Vitamin C, which is considered to be a very powerful antioxidant that stimulates collagen production. That is only one of the ingredients in our formulation to help repair the damages of aging.
Collagen is responsible for skin strength and elasticity, and its degradation leads to wrinkles that accompany aging.
As for multi-level marketing schemes, and why we don’t sell our products in the normal way through department or grocery stores. Network Marketing is just another method of distribution and because we eliminate the middle man, Arbonne can spend more money on research and development and pay great commission to the field. This is great for people that want a home-based business that they can work around their families’ schedule.
The Direct Selling Association recently presented Arbonne International with the Education for Life Award for its Arbonne University program. The Education for Life award honors to companies that have invested in salesforce education and training programs that build life skills in individuals.
Many consultants believe that the personal growth, working with people who exhibit integrity and excellence, the potential for freedom and flexibility often outweigh the potential financial gain that results from having a successful, home-based business as an Arbonne International Consultant.
Last weekend in Oklahoma City the president of Arbonne International, Rita Davenport reminded us of our priorities, first God, then family and lastly job. That’s the company I want to work with. So if you are looking to own your own business, Arbonne International is well worth considering.
Stacey Says:
EEEK. Go Beauty Brains! Thanks for all the great info.
shirley Says:
Thanks Connie for putting time into a well thoughtout response.
shirley Says:
Thanks Connie for putting time into a well thought out response.
Annabelle Says:
I think Arbonne’s term of “nanospheres” is just a marketing slogan and not to be taken as a scientific term. Basically it just refers to the fact that the products adjust themselves to your skin’s needs. For instance, it will provide more moisture to where you have drier spots and less to where it is oily. On my own skin, this means that the skins feels very smooth all over and not oily or shiny at all. There may be other products on the market as well that have self-adjusting properties. Anyway, I don’t think “nanospheres” has anything to do with nanotechnology. It’s just a term Arbonne made up to help market their products. A lot of cosmetic companies do this as well. I wouldn’t worry about it.
thebeautybrains Says:
From the Arbonne site…
“Nanosphere Delivery System
Infused with key ingredients and vitamins, Nanospheres allow Arbonne’s hair care formulations to self-adjust to hair’s needs, including protecting hair follicles from DHT, environmental exposure and dry scalp. Thermal Fusion Technology Arbonne’s proprietary Thermal Fusion Technology adds the element of heat to increase microcirculation with key ingredients infused in Nanospheres. Heat + microcirculation + Nanospheres + key ingredients = healthy hair.”
This is a description of nanotechnology. Lots of suppliers in the beauty industry sell these nano-delivery systems. They are nanoparticles.
marketingpro Says:
I love that PC (so clearly aligned with another product line) feels the need to degrade Arbonne. Professionals understand that there is competition in the market place. Professionals understand there is not one solution for all consumers. Professionals who believe in their product understand that bad-mouthing the competition is not necessary to sell their products. Nice “professional” behavior, PC.
thebeautybrains Says:
Thanks for your comments. You can continue the discussion by joining the Beauty Brains forum and posting your opinion there.
If you’d like to see what other people are saying about Arbonne see the Arbonne Forum link.
We look forward to hearing from you.
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