Next Generation Brings Cristina Fiore Italian Skin Care Back to Santa Barbara, CA

Originally introduced to the U.S. on Montecitos posh Coast Village Road, Cristina Fiore Italian skin care products have returned after years of being away.

June 23, 2004 -- Anna Banducci and Dr. Cristina Fiore (dermatologist) met nearly two decades ago in Italy, becoming fast friends and eventually business associates. This month, the relationship continues, with the passing of the U.S. distributorship of Cristina Fiore products to the next generation.

Mark Pananides, Annas son, and his partner, Christina Penniman are taking over the Italian Skin Care line and have moved the (U.S.) home office back to Santa Barbara, CA from the Napa Valley.

Though well known in Italy, Cristina Fiore and her sulphur-based products are still very boutique here in the United States, says Penniman. Our goal is to maintain the exclusivity of the line, while introducing it to other parts of the country.

In 1992, Banducci (now Johnson) opened the first U.S. Cristina Fiore Italian Skincare Salon and Spa on Coast Village Road (Montecito, CA), attracting locals and travelers already familiar with the Cristina Fiore salon in Rome. Not only were clients treated to detoxifying and circulation-improving facial and body treatments, but national magazines such as allure and Condast Traveler took notice and featured the spa and its unique beauty specialties.

We even had plastic surgeons suggesting that their patients see us both pre- and post-operation for the healing qualities of our treatments, says Banducci.

Eventually, Anna moved to the Napa Valley, closing the spa. However, she continued to distribute the products to dedicated local fans, as well as to two off-shoots of her Cristina Fiore Spa: Bel Viso Italian Skin Care in Montecito, CA and Skincare by Dana at Amara Spa by the Sea in Summerland, CA.

Though she once again has a part-time residence Santa Barbara, Anna has chosen to retire and pass the business to her son and his partner.

Dr. Fiore has included the next generation on the Italian side as well. Her daughter, Maria Laura, a pharmacist, and son Carlo, an accountant, have joined her in running the company (known as Cris Flower International in Italy).

With the younger generation come fresh ideas in products, formulations and for the first time, a U.S. website (www.cristinafiore.com).

These are such amazing products, but unfortunately most of America has not yet heard of them, says Christina Penniman. Were hoping that by launching the new website, we will be able to reach internet-savvy shoppers and spread the word.

What has not changed is the dedication to quality products using only the purest ingredients and unadulterated, vitamin-rich sulfur muds from the famous spa on the Island of Elba.

Italians have long understood the preventative benefits of sulfur baths and regular facials, says Banducci. In fact, Italys rich herbal tradition dates back to the Renaissance, when each great family had its own armomatista, and the monasteries were centers for herbal knowledge.

We are thrilled about continuing the long-standing tradition of natural beauty and overall wellness, adds Penniman.