The best skincare advice for flying long-haul
The third-generation CEO of beauty company Ella Bache has some top tips for long-distance travellers.
Cosmetic chemist Ella Bache created a skincare range in 1936 in Paris after seeing female farmers in her home country of Czechoslovakia cutting up tomatoes and rubbing them on their faces. She used the amino acids found in the fruit and vitamin C in her first cream. Bache’s cousin Edith Hallas joined the growing business but the family left France with the outbreak of World War II. Bache went to New York, and Hallas went to Australia and in 1954 convinced David Jones to start stocking Ella Bache products.
The brand now has more than 20 stores, including 40 counters within David Jones, and an educational college. Hallas’s son John took over the reins of the business and now his daughter, Pippa, has been chief executive for 13 years, joining in 2005.
“My background is in corporate advertising, having worked with well-known global agencies both in Australia and London,” Pippa Hallas says. “Growing up, Ella Bache had always been a part of my family’s business, and it wasn’t until my early 30s that I decided to join the company, initially as the head of marketing.”
The secret to good skin
People are constantly bombarded with messages to try the latest trend but the real secret to effective skincare is personalised attention. Many clients come to our salons with skin concerns caused by experimenting with products recommended by a blog or content on social media. You need a professional who not only understands your unique skin conditions but prescribes personalised solutions.
How travel inspires me
I love visiting major cities such as New York, Paris, London and Tokyo. These vibrant metropolises spark new ideas. I’m also drawn to the mountains for skiing, which is another passion of mine. I live close to the beach so that sets a high standard for coastal destinations, making it rare to find beach spots abroad that compare. Consequently, I find myself gravitating towards bustling cities or serene mountains when I travel.
My work trips
I fly extensively around Australia to visit our salons and stores, and I also head to Harvard Business School for a week every year. This experience ignites my mind, as I spend time with like-minded founders, CEOs and experts in their respective fields. I also value the solitude and time for reflection that long-haul flights offer. The extended duration of these journeys provides a rare opportunity for me to delve into uninterrupted thought, which is precious in today’s fast-paced world.
How I prepare my skin for a long-haul flight
When I embark on an international flight I prioritise skincare by cleansing my face and applying an intensely hydrating and protective moisturiser to prevent dehydration. I also use our Botanical Oil and Hydration Mist to maintain moisture throughout the journey. In my skincare regimen, essential items include a quality cleanser, serum, facial oil, moisturiser, tinted sunscreen and body sunscreen. I pack full-sized essentials in my check-in baggage and luxe samples for the plane.
How I pack
I aim to pack light, selecting clothes that are wrinkle-resistant and easily rolled for efficient packing. Comfortable sneakers are a must for me as I enjoy exploring foreign cities on foot. For colder climates I opt for layering pieces and a warm jacket. I carry spare clothes in my carry-on, having experienced luggage mishaps in the past and learned the importance of having backups. One item I can’t go without is my hair straightener.
My favourite holiday
My husband and I spent a month in the south of France before we had kids, attending a close friend’s wedding. We had the opportunity to explore the picturesque coastline, charming countryside, vibrant markets and exquisite restaurants. The wedding took place in Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat, and it was a truly unforgettable occasion. More recently, I also cherish my time at Seal Rocks (on the NSW coast) where I can disconnect from devices and immerse myself in the ocean with my family for hours on end. It’s a magical experience to witness pods of dolphins playing nearby almost every day. It’s pure bliss.
Why I love Paris and New York
I had the pleasure of recently staying at the Mercer Hotel in SoHo, New York, and I adore the vibrant area, as well as the exceptional restaurant and the hotel itself. Paris holds a special place in my heart as my favourite city. Years ago I had the incredible opportunity to live in Ella’s apartment on Rue de la Paix in the 2nd arrondissement. Despite its reputation as one of the most expensive streets on the French Monopoly board, I arrived from London with just a backpack. Over the course of a year I immersed myself in the enchanting city of Paris, forging lifelong friendships and falling deeply in love with its charm.
Where I am going next
My family and I are going to Tokyo and skiing in the Japan Alps next January. While I have been there a few times, I cannot wait to see it through my kids’ eyes. I am really looking forward to exploring the streets of Shinjuku, Shibuya, eating amazing cuisine, skiing in the powder snow and soaking in an onsen at the end of the day.
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