ALL TESTIMONIALS SHOWN ON THIS WEBSITE ARE GENUINE.
PROOF OF THESE CAN BE SEEN UPON REQUEST.
PROOF OF THESE CAN BE SEEN UPON REQUEST.
The Institute of Aromatherapy has been teaching Skin Care and Holistic Health Courses since 1986.
In 1995 we introduced our Cosmetic Making program and the first limited edition of the book "The Creamy Craft of Cosmetic Making". Since then 1000's of people have been introduced into the world of making natural cosmetics by the Aroma Shoppe.
Here are testimonials & pictures from some of my successful students and their products made with Aroma Shoppe ingredients.
Heather Lacey Holistic Health care Practitioner, 2016
I have long been interested in a holistic approach to healthcare. In 2012 I spoke with Jan on the phone about her classes. I had many questions and she was helpful and friendly from the start! As she was relocating overseas at the time, I started taking her online course. Jan's online classes are easy to follow and she is always available to answer questions via email or Skype if you are having difficulties.
A few months later, I was able to take some of her workshops in Toronto. Her hands on classes are exactly that - very hands on. You are not just watching a teacher demonstrate - you get to actually mix and make things. You learn how to use equipment, see how products should look at the various stages of creation, and enjoy the safety net of having someone there who can show you the right way if something goes wrong.
I have continued to learn from Jan ever since - earning diplomas in Aromatherapy and Reflexology, taking just about every course she offers, learning from her private Facebook group for her students, and asking questions of her directly when something arises that I would like help with.
Jan opened my eyes to the many benefits of using natural ingredients and to the many career possibilities. As a result, I am pursuing a life involved in healing and have added valuable skills to my practice.
Reiki Master, Aromatherapist, Reflexologist, and maker of healthy body care products. www.lazycatoils.com
Book appointments online at www.lifeacupuncturebodywork.com
University of Bath 2015
On behalf of Dr Semali Perera, myself and the Department of Chemical Engineering at the University of Bath, I would like to thank you for your brilliant service in delivering lipstick making ingredients, swiftly and efficiently for an event we held for National Women’s Engineering Day.
Thank you for your helpful suggestions and your swift responses.
We had 80 12 and 13 year olds into the university and they all really enjoyed the session – hopefully it inspired some girls to consider engineering as a career option!
I would highly recommend your services.
With kind regards
Sarah Stead
Faculty of Engineering & Design
Kay Campbell - E course Cosmetic Making 2012
Queensland, Australia
This is a testimonial to Jan Benham to express my personal gratitude and thanks for her wonderful E-course in Mineral Makeup.
Being a qualified Aromatherapist in Australia, I have a keen interest in learning new techniques and anything to do with making beautiful things naturally for the face and body.
Some months ago I read an article in an the English Aromatherapy Association newsletter regarding Jan’s courses online in Mineral Makeup and beauty products and I contacted her and arranged to take part in the Mineral Makeup E-course.
Upon further reading and videos about Jan via the Internet, I discovered that she is an extremely talented and accomplished lady in the beautiful and natural world of Aromatherapy, Teaching and Cosmetic making.
Jan forwarded her manuals by email and posted the ingredients for the E-course, I couldn’t wait to get started. I found the manuals very easy to follow and self-explanatory; however when I needed to query something, Jan answered my every email straight away and also gave me comprehensive advice and tips whilst I worked my way through the course.
I have now completed Jan’s Mineral Makeup Course and I loved every minute. I still cannot believe the absolute professional and beautiful cosmetic products I can now make myself – eye and lip pencils, lipsticks and glosses, mineral powder bases, eye shadows, blushers and mascara – I can mix any colour I choose using the natural colourants from the earth of oxides and micas. I do not ever have to buy makeup again. Over the years I have used the best and most expensive brands in makeup and I can honestly say that I find this mineral makeup surpasses anything I have ever used – the mineral powder base is superb, the coverage is excellent, so light and natural and the best thing is that I make it all ‘myself’ in my kitchen.
I cannot thank this very gracious lady enough and I can honestly say this is the best online course I have ever taken part in.
Jazy Hatton - Pet Care Distant Learning Course October 2013, UK
Hi Jan
I have now completed the last assignment, my 3 products:-
Healing Ointment: for Molly suffering from mild irritation on her groin area. Molly seemed to have an urgent itch in her groin area that seemed to be bothering and she was constantly licking, and so applied ointment.
Sweet Almond Oil - penetrates well intothe skin, nourishing, protecting and soothes eczema
Calendula Oil - anti-inflammatory, healing
Shea Butter - moisturising, anti-inflamaory, antibacterial
Vitamin E - antioxidant, healing
Roman Chamomile - antiseptic, relief for dry, itchy, sensitive skin
lavender - calming, soothing, antiseptic, anti-inflammatory
Myrrh - rejuvenating, fungicidal, cooling, antiseptic, astringent
Helichrysm - anti-inflammatory, analgesic, healing
Molly really enjoyed her treatment, she loved her essential oil blend and it seemed to have an immediate effect, although I applied the ointment 2 or 3 times there has been no licking of the area since the first application.
Bug Spray: Toffee, my daughters cocker spaniel picked up a few undesirable stowaways, and so treated both him and Molly (my cockerpoo) with the bug spray, as they play together most days,(and he was staying with us for a few days) all carpets and bedding.
Cider Vinegar - kills ticks and fleas, soothes irritated skin
Eucalyptus - anti-viral, anti-inflammatory, repells fleas
Sweet Orange - deodorizing, repells fleas
Lavender - antiseptic, antibacterial
Peppermint - insect repelling
Geranium - cleansing, astringent, relieves inflames and irritated skin, repels ticks
Cedarwood - repels fleas, skin and coat conditioner
It Totaly cleared up Toffee's flea problem and served as a preventative for Molly who thankfully had no problem. I used the spray on both dogs for a week, esspecially after a wet walk, also kept both dogs smelling fragrant. I have to say Toffee hated this treatment as he didnt like either the essential oils or the spray, but needs must.
Massage oil Blend: Toffee came to me for a weeks holiday while his owners went abroad. The first day or two Toffee was very hyperactive, being disobedient on his walks, running off and rolling in the most foul smelling things he could find, also eating unmentionables. So, made a massage oil blend for separation issues. Massaged into the back of his neck and onto paws at bedtime to settle him down.
In 10ml of Almond Oil
4 drops Clary Sage - anxiety, adjustment to change,depression, emotional stress
3 drops Geranium - anxiety, balancing hormones, depression
1 drop Frankinsence - insecurity, anxiety, depression
Toffee wasn't to keen on the essential oils at first, but enjoyed his massage and so got used to the oil.
I saw a vast improvement during the rest of the week, he was a lot calmer, more settled in the house, better behaved and obedient out on his walks and so enjoyed the rest of his weeks holiday with us.
So overall I was very pleased with the products and the results, with no adverse effects. I have hopefully attached pics of Molly's Ointment, Toffee's Massage Oil, Bug Spray, pics of both Toffee and Molly :)
Esther Squires - Diploma in Cosmetic Making awarded 2012
Newfoundland, Canada
After finishing the Cosmetic Making workshops with Jan Benham in Toronto in 2011, I was immediately filled with a new purpose in life. To rid my own cupboards from any harmful cosmetics and products in my house and then to start on all of my friends cupboards as well. Not only was the course a ton a fun but it was enlightening to see how simple it is to make products that are not only free from harmful chemicals but actually work better than the commercial brands.
Jan is a force to reckon with. Her expertise and confidence showered us little fledglings and by the end of the course I was feeling quite capable and ready to begin an endeavor of my own. I found myself enthusiastically whipping up creams and lotions, shampoos and lipsticks and giving them away as Christmas presents. Word spreads fast when there is a great new healthy product to be found and Jan Benham’s recipes are above and beyond any others I have tried.
Tracey Tief - CNHP diploma awarded 2005
Toronto, Canada
http://www.anarreshealth.ca/node/1
Dear Jan,
I have been struggling all these years to put into words what you gave me. I did not seek a school when I came to your School of Holistic Studies, Institute of Aromatherapy. I was seeking a Master, a real Teacher. What I learned in my years with you astounded me. You taught me how to learn and understand botanicals - chemically, physically, sensually, cosmetically, spiritually. You taught me how to touch and how to feel. You taught me with words that led to understanding, and your respectful silences or short answers taught me as much. You taught me how to teach. I am forever indebted to you. I continue to be honoured to know you.
In love & gratitude, Tracey Tief Class of 2005
From one of her client's
I’ve received massage from Tracey many times, and purchased several of her products. Her treatments have given me substantial relief from chronic low back pain, and her products are effective and healthy alternatives to others which are commercially available. She’s knowledgeable in an incredibly wide range of topics relevant to health and healthy living. She’s a person of remarkable integrity and compassion, qualities that come through in her clinical presence and overall business practices.
~ Chris Malec, RMT, Toronto, Canada
Melanie Cruickshank - Dalish Cosmetics
Cosmetic Making Diploma awarded 2011
Toronto, Canada
http://www.dalishcosmetics.com/
Rani Johnson - Aromatherapist 2006 and Reiki Master.
Cosmetic Making Diploma awarded 2010
Newmarket, Canada
In 2006, I completed a course in Aroma Cosmetology at The Institute of Aromatherapy in Toronto.
Jan Benham was absolutely amazing in teaching the course. The skin-loving and relaxing facial that I learnt from
her ,especially the facial massage, is one of the most liked treatments in my circle of clients and friends.
Jan made sure that her students walked out of the course having well practised the facial and having good knowledge
of the oils, essential oils , and the products that they make and use.
Jan teaches how to make skincare products and cosmetics in a friendly, relaxed atmosphere which makes learning fun and easy.
I always walked out of her classes with more knowledge and feeling inspired to go and create new products. I reviewed classes because each time, Jan had something new to teach.
I always thank Jan for teaching me how to make soaps. My first experience with learning soap making had gotten me to think that soap making wasn't for me. After attending her class, creating soaps has become a delightful experience. I now enjoy making beautiful, skin-friendly soaps.
Many thanks Jan. You are the best!
Rani Johnson
Michele Duquet - Michele's Organics
Aromatology diploma 2008
Toronto, Canada
Jan Benham is my mentor, teacher & friend, and president/founder of The Institute Of Aromatherapy where I got my Aromatology certification. I am very grateful to Jan for all that she has taught me and continues to teach me. Jan's make-up line is sublime. Her lipsticks can also be found at The Big Carrot health food store. Everything Jan makes is 100% trustworthy!
Glowing product review from the US on Michelle's products, by Karen Keith:
Testimonials from Michele's Clients
March 10th 2011
LOVE the Vanilla & Sweet-Orange Hand Cream!Judith Cockman, Host & Creator of Lizzy Jacks! spkezy salon
Toronto, Canada
January 10th 2011 I think I'm addicted to your Vanilla & Sweet-Orange hand cream... I HAD to bring it with me to my exam to soothe me while stressing over math equations! Love it, I'm out for over a week now and in withdrawal!Sonya Coté, Actor/Voice-over artist/Singer
Toronto, Canada
December 29th 2010 Woohoo! Sooo good. I totally love the vanilla & sweet-orange hand cream. Its decadent. :) Ginger St-James, singer/songwriter
Toronto, Canada
October 2009 I am completely addicted to your products!!!! They are the best I have ever used, I think your products are the best kept secret of all time!!Dorine Duquet, Director Sales/Marketing
Burlington, Canada
July 2009 ...I was out with a friend last night and she was raving about my skin. She said, "How come you haven't aged? And how come you look even younger than you did a year ago??" She kept saying, "Isn't smoking supposed to ruin your skin? How is it that you look so good?" Well done my genius wizard!!Jill Girling, Film/TV Screenwriter
Toronto, Canada
May 2010 Ahhh the Rose Cream!!!! What a lovely cream, it's wonderful! I had my daughter with me when I picked it up and she fell over with rapture when I put it on her face. Thank you ....it's divine!Sonya Coté, Actor/Voice-over artist/Singer
Toronto, Canada
June 2010 I love your products! They make my skin feel tighter and smoother, just the way I like. I like the feel of them on my skin, the freshness.Joyce Cashen, 80 years young mom & grand-mother Toronto, Canada
May 2010 Thank-you for the Bright-Eyed Serum; it's magical and so are all your products (even my white fluff-ball dog Max loves the Doggie Shampoo). As a busy woman in her 40's, I often wake up with puffy, swollen eyes (which no amount of even professional makeup can hide saddle-bags) but within minutes of using your serum I see miracles. I now use it before bed, after a sad movie or carry it routinely in my makeup kit for quick roll-on fix-ups during long, hectic days. It's a life-saver. Wonderful to feel you have control and confidence over the aging process. You are a rock star!A happy and devoted customer and fan,
Lucy Filippone - Teacher, Actress, Producer /Writer and busy Mom
Mississauga, Canada
May 2010 Michèle’s Organics products are the best thing ever!!! I've been using Michèle’s products since the very beginning and I see amazing results. I’ve used the Rejuvenating Facial Creams (not that I need them, hee-hee) alternating between the different facial cream blends every 3 months, the Bright-Eyed Serum, the Scrub and Toners, the Make-up Remover, Citrus Burst, Liquid Soaps, the Body Lotions, Lip Balm and even some of Michèle’s own Organic Perfume creations. First of all, I trust what is in them, I know they are good for my health and my family's, but I also love the way they lift my spirits when I apply them. One morning I was feeling tired and realized that applying the face cream gave me energy and changed my mood completely... then I thought "no wonder, that’s why it’s called aroma therapy"... Thanks Michele for investing so much of you in this line. Thinking of you every time I use the products makes it even nicer!!!Adriena Bages-Levy, Piano Teacher & Music Educator
Toronto, Canada
May 2010 Dear Michèle, Thank you so much for your wonderful creams, I love my new Neroli Rejuvenating Facial Lotion, the smell of it fills me with joy, it's a pleasure to put on and my skin reflects its gratefulness. Not to mention your magical Bright-Eyed Serum de-puffer, I love it! I'm a happy customer!Karen Racicot, Actor, Director, Artist
Toronto, Canada
May 2010 We love your products! I've always looked for natural creams for my skin and for my teenaged daughters. My older daughter has extremely sensitive skin and, even though she's only 19, it's also quite dry. The Rose Rejuvenating Facial Lotion is the first product I have found for her that actually works and doesn't cause her to break out or develop a rash. Her skin looks radiant and has become smooth and soft in just a couple of weeks. And she is thrilled! I have to say the fragrance of the rose is also truly divine.Barbara Radecki, Actor and Writer of The Middle Ages
Toronto, Canada
May 2010 I discovered Michèle's Rose Rejuvenating Facial Cream at the same time as I was learning about the chemicals and parabens in the majority of commercial creams. Using her products makes me feel as good as my skin looks because I know it's healthy for me and for the planet. It's an easy choice to make because I like the smell and feel of the moisturizer so much more than anything I'd ever bought in a drug store. I love Michèle's Organics!Amy Stewart, Publicist
Toronto, Canada
May 2010 Your Foxy Roxy Organic Doggie Shampoo is amazing!! I love it for my Pekingese Rosie because it's so gentle on her. She used to get very itchy after a shampoo but not anymore. It smells so lovely too. And a client of mine who also uses your Doggie Shampoo said it saved her dog from much aggravation. Her dog used to scratch herself after each grooming until she bled and now she is completely itch-free. It literally saved her skin!Roxana Sherman, Dog Walker/Trainer
Toronto, Canada
May 2010 Just a note to tell you how happy I am to have discovered your products. Having made a commitment to rid my home of anything toxic, I was shocked to find that my face and body lotions contained as many suspicious ingredients as my cleaning products. Thus began a search for a pure and effective skin care line, which thankfully led to Michèle's Organics. My skin has never looked better and the fabulous smell of the products gives me a great sense of wellbeing. So, so happy to have these products in my life.......!Colette Stevenson, Actor
Toronto, Canada
May 2010 Michèle's consultation helped me diagnose and solve a dry skin issue that had been nagging me for two years. Her products are exquisite! They are so pure and feel amazing, with outstanding results. All of which are fabulous, but when you add these qualities to the phenomenal price point (compared to the high end brands I’ve used for years), this is an unbeatable combination!Nancy Moore, Corporate Executive coach & Management Consultant
Toronto, Canada
May 2010 I just want to say that since I've switched my skin care routine to Michèle's Organics my skin does not appear to be as blotchy or prone to rosacea! Because of this fact, I rarely wear foundation anymore, which I find tends to make my skin flaky anyway! My skin thanks you, I thank you and people love the way I smell! (Particularly the Jasmine Rejuvenating Facial Cream!)Hilary Scott, Real Estate Investor
Toronto, Canada
May 2010 J'adore le "Facial Scrub" qui laisse la peau d'une propreté inégalée et une sensation de bien-être. Le "Neroli Facial Toner" est une bénédiction pour une impression de fraicheur instantanée. Sans parler du ”Organic Rejuvenating Facial Cream" qui apporte à ma peau un grand bienfait vu les huiles essentielles qu'elle contien et aussi le "Citrus Burst Exfoliating Lotion" que j'ai aimé pour son action sur les tâches de vieilissement. Je pense que Michèle fabrique des produits de beauté que nous sommes chanceuses de connaitre et d'utiliser.Pierrette Nicole, Retraitée en Publicité et Grand'maman
Québec, Canada
May 2010 Michèle’s Organics Men's Rejuvenating Facial Cream is a welcome relief to my tender skin after shaving and best of all, my wife loves the way it smells on me.David Smith
President, Beta Clothing Designs
Toronto, Canada
May 2010 I've tried several of Michèle Organics products including the moisturizing lip balm, orange and rose facial creams and lemongrass liquid soap among others. Every time I use one of these products I'm impressed with the exceptional quality and effectiveness, in addition to enjoying the refreshingly honest scents. I trust Michèle to recommend products that suit my individual needs. I can feel good about purchasing Michèle’s Organics knowing that she makes the products in a socially and environmentally responsible manner, using only the purest ingredients.Aislinn Keely Smith, Freelance Photographer
Toronto, Canada
May 2010 My husband and I adore the products from Michèle's Organics. My husband uses the men's vetiver facial cream, and I am a big fan of all of the products, and most particularly, of the Jasmine facial cream, the lemongrass and lavender liquid soaps, the lavender body lotion and the line of bath sea salts. I am comforted by the fact that only all natural, organic ingredients are used.Marie-Ève, Lawyer
Toronto, Canada
May 2010 …in such a short time I already show improvement. It's been only 2 weeks, there are already people who have mentioned in the last 3 or 4 days that I look better. People who didn't know that I’ve been using your Bright-Eyed Serum product. I myself have noticed. It's unquestionable that there is a clear very positive effect.Walter Pacífico, Cinematographer
Toronto, Canada
February 2010 I wanted to let you know I just love my face scrub. Have used it 2x and it's fantastic. Thanks so much.Anna Larue, Fashion/Apparel Executive
Toronto, Canada
December 2009 My mother-in-law loves your products! We went to Sudbury this past weekend and I gave your Michèle Organics products to her - she loves them! She said after using them just a few times her hands started to feel better!!!Gayle Konarec, Full Time Mom & Writer
Toronto, Canada
December 2009 Dear Michèle, I wanted to let you know how much I adore your skincare products. They are made with incredible integrity and love. My skin soaks up the high quality ingredients as well as the beautiful energy you put into each bottle. I’ve truly become addicted!With gratitude, Laurie Weinberg, Certified Spiritual Psychotherapist, Master Hypnotherapist and Certified Sound Healing Practitioner
Toronto, Canada
September 2009 I wanted to tell you, I went for a facial today and told her all about you and she wanted me to report back that the blackhead extractions just popped out effortlessly! She said it was like toothpaste sliding out of the tube. I could barely feel it!
Jill Girling, Film/TV Screenwriter
Toronto, Canada
August 2009 I have to say that in the short time I have been using your products (two weeks?) my skin feels fantastic. I have been faithfully using the Citrus Burst Exfoliating Lotion, Facial Revitalizer Cream, Facial Toner & Bright-Eyed Serum and my skin is already showing a glow – no mean feat considering the fact that I smoke. This is the first time in my life that I am applying completely organic products to my skin & I really notice the difference!Dorine Duquet, Director Sales/Marketing
Burlington, Canada
July 2009 I just wanted to tell you that I absolutely LOVE your products. Oh my! Within only a week my skin is glowing – and people at work have been commenting on how glowy I am. Even my husband Bob has not been able to resist. He’s all about the Bright-Eyed Serum – which always makes me laugh when I catch him with it. I love everything – and am addicted to the wonderful fresh smells. It’s such a drastic change from the over scented perfume they put in regular stuff. So thank you. I will pass the word to everyone I know!!
Lori Mather-Welch, Film/TV Screenwriter
Toronto, Canada
July 2009 I had coffee with a make up artist friend this morning and he freaked over my skin - could not believe it - of course I told him all about you!! And I'm with Lori and her skin looks amazing!!! WoW!! You can see it on yourself, but when you see the results on someone else it's really amazing!!
Jill Girling, Film/TV Screenwriter
Toronto, Canada
July 2009 ...have to admit, the scent is half the pleasure of using your creams...it's such a pure smell too, nothing to clog the senses and very calming....
Sonya Coté, Actor/Voice-over artist/Singer
Toronto, Canada
August 2008 I just wanted to tell you that I went in for a facial at the Elmwood on the weekend after a month of using your products. The aesthetician said I barely had any blackheads and that I must really take care of my skin because it was so clean. I have never heard those comments before. In fact, when I went in April she said I had a lot of blackheads. The melias have not come back at all, which is another great thing.Nicki Verlinden, CA Manager Private Company Group Tax
Toronto, Canada
July 2008 ….I have noticed one wonderful change. There are less melia on my face now. In fact, by day three, the melia on my left cheek disappeared, which blew me away. I also really love how fresh my skin feels after the toner, and the Citrus Burst lotion doesn't weigh heavy on my skin. It is light as a feather. I am addicted to it! Once I am finished, I will definitely be ordering more stuff from you. You really impressed everyone with your products. Thanks so much for introducing me to them. I look forward to using them throughout the year.Nicki Verlinden, CA Manager Private Company Group Tax
Toronto, Canada
Testimonials from graduates of the Holistic Health Programs
Jan, studying natural health care at your school was one of the best times of my life! Thank you, dear friend and teacher.
Valery MP Class of 1998