Meet Flora Vergnolle, founder and CEO of Provence Cosmetics
American Spa: How many years have you been involved in the spa industry?
Flora Vergnolle: It’s been 16 years. I created Provence Cosmetics in France back in 2002.
AS: What was the path that led you into the spa industry?
FV: My mum was esthetician and makeup artist within the movie industry, so I’ve always been passionate about beauty products.
AS: What are the most challenging and rewarding parts of being in the spa industry?
FV: The most challenging is to convince people that your products are the best products—to educate and train. The reward is when people love your products and they've made a difference in their life. Then you know that the long hours and the hard work are paying off and it motivates you to give more.
AS: What is your proudest accomplishment?
FV: The creation of my company Provence Cosmetics and the creation of the Bioslimming Line. Coming up with the best skincare or beauty products is what really interests me.
AS: What has surprised you most about working in the spa industry?
FV: The enthusiasm for French products. The "Made in France" has opened many doors for me.
AS: Where do you think the industry is heading?
FV: Right now I think it is heading towards a greener approach. But also we are a youth-obsessed society so we are still looking for those results.
AS: What’s your favorite skincare ingredient?
FV: One of my favorite ingredient is sunflower pollen. Pollen contains several proteins, essential amino acids and trace elements, pro-vitamin A (retinol), vitamin D, and group B vitamins.
AS: If you could work in any other profession in the world, what would you be?
FV: I’d probably be a DNA scientist.
AS: How would you sum up your personal philosophy?
FV: Stay positive, work hard, reward yourself. If you help other to achieve their goals you will never fail a day in your life.
AS: How do you like to spend your time away from work?
FV: I love windsurfing. It soothes me. I like to be close to the ocean. The rest of the world disappears for me when I'm on a windsurf board and it truly allows me to recharge!
AS: What are your three greatest priorities in life?
FV: Family, my work, and empowering women as much as I can.
AS: What’s the best advice you’ve received?
FV: To look at the bright side of things and to see the good in others. Life feels so much better when you keep a positive outlook.
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