Kiehl's: No Nonsense, Effective Products

by Annie Scott (RSS feed)
May 16th 2010 at 3:16PM

Kiehl's has been concocting beautifying elixirs in New York City since 1851, kept alive by word of mouth and undeniably effective products. Our readers have certainly been talking about them; Kiehl's has been nominated for a Readers' Choice Award in Best Bodycare Line.

While there have been many scientific developments over the years, Kiehl's has always stayed true to their roots: natural botanical ingredients, "proven and effective." In addition to their no-nonsense approach to creating their formulas, they keep the packaging simple -- and recyclable -- with no fancy colors or names intended to entice the impulse buyer. They rely on the quality of their products to do the marketing.

Gallery: Kiehl's

Well, that and the skeletons and motorcycles they always seem to have on display.

Once an old-world apothecary at Third Avenue and 13th Street in New York City (where the flagship store remains today), Kiehl's makes some of the most revolutionary products available. Innovation is part of their history; they were hand-blending 122 different essences by the year 1900, they debuted Musk Oil in 1921 (allegedly formulated by a distant relation who happened to be a Russian Prince) and they were among the first bodycare suppliers to address the needs of men. In fact, the men are the reason for the motorcycles; the founding family was known for their daredevil streak which fostered a handsome collection of fast cars and bikes. By displaying them in the pharmacy, they got the attention of their first generation of male devotees.

The service at Kiehl's is also a boon. A staff member will always work with you to "prescribe" a regime for whatever ails you, and you'll even be provided with samples to take home, a genuine try-before-you-buy policy.

It's hard to nail down a favorite product, what with their skin-rejuvenating Calendula Herbal-Extract Toner, the Blue Astringent Andy Warhol used to buy and the iconic, warm ivory Creme de Corps lotion. Let's just say that we love them because their products work, they are committed to important causes like AIDS research and prevention, children and the environment, and that this writer never leaves home without Lip Balm #1 in her purse.

Vote for the bodycare line that you believe is the best of breed. The voting period runs through May 31st and winners will be announced on June 1.

Tags: kiehls