Feel-good classes

The Paris Gallery School of Creative Beauty opens in Dubai

Paris Gallery, the largest cosmetic and perfume retailer in the UAE, yesterday announced the opening of The Paris Gallery School of Creative Beauty. Aimed largely at its customers, the school will provide a range of courses in skincare procedures and make-up techniques, beginning October 1.

"The Paris Gallery School of Creative Beauty is suited to all ladies of all age groups and from all walks of life who wish to learn more about themselves," said Terry Allen, creative beauty manager, at a press conference yesterday.

The courses will enhance self-image and make the students feel good about themselves, she added.

The school will offer a varied programme of full and half day courses at its premises within the Paris Gallery store on the second level of Deira City Centre, Dubai. The courses range from introductory to advanced and cover all ages and skins. Topics will range from regular make-up and skincare to make-up trends and problem skins.

Students will be divided according to ages (16-25; 25-35; 35 and above) and classes will be tailored to suit each age group.

Each class will have a maximum of 14 students. Terry, an international make-up artist herself, will take the courses on make-up. Paula Quinn, assistant beauty manager, will take the skincare courses. Both will be supported by international experts of well-known brands.

There are 10 main cosmetic sponsors for the school: Chanel, Christian Dior, Clarins, Clinique, Decleor, Helena Rubinstein, Lancome, Kanebo, Make-up For Ever and Shiseido. The courses will use products from these brands.

"But we are not taking away anyone's freedom of choice," clarified Paula. "Our classes will be about ingredients, not about products. We will educate the students, tell them what ingredient is good for what kind of skin etc."

The school has drawn up its schedule for the month of October.

A full-day introduction to skincare course for women between 25 and 35 years, for instance, will include modules on understanding the skin cell and skin structure; the basic four skin types; know your skin; your skin type and what it needs and your daily skincare routine. It will run from 10.00am to 3.30pm and will cost Dh500, including refreshments, light meal and training manual.

Most of the courses will use all the sponsor brands. Others will be dedicated to one brand only. For instance, Clarins products will be used in the make-up introduction course for students between 16 and 25 years.

Further courses will be developed depending on customer demand and feedback, added Terry.