Clientele Cosmetic president and founder Pat Riley pioneered the cruelty-free movement by being the first department store cosmetic not to use animals for testing.

Working in the media, you encounter some amazing people. This is especially true for those of us who are also fortunate enough to work with animals. Animal people never cease to amaze me; their love and dedication to their pets and critters in general is exemplary. So often I encounter people with a genuine concern for animal welfare but without the time or means to help at a local shelter or other worthwhile cause. I, more than anyone, can appreciate this dilemma; I often have to miss out on the opportunities of important fund-raising events in the humane community for lack of time or means. You can, however, make a significant difference in saving the lives of animals by being a selective shopper.

The beauty business is not all glitz and glamour; behind the large cosmetic industry exists a world of cruelty and heartbreak. Every day new cosmetics are tested on innocent animals around the world. Some would have you think that these exams are performed only on rodents, but the truth is that rabbits, birds, dogs, and cats are used in unnecessary tests to determine the adverse effects of cosmetics on humans. Perhaps that's why it is so important for us to support the companies that have shown a true sense of compassion and care for our animals and our environment by making their products cruelty-free.

Patricia Riley graduated with honors from the University of Florida in 1976. Shortly after her graduation, she founded Clientele Cosmetics, which is based on formulas from noted dermatologist Dr. Victor Whitten. It was in 1979 that Clientele Cosmetics made its debut at Neiman-Marcus; two decades later it continues to be one of the most successful cosmetic lines in fine department stores such as Nordstroms and Neiman-Marcus.

Despite her busy life, Pat finds time to advise celebrities on health and nutrition. She is here with her good friend and fellow Clientele user Carol Connors, the brilliant singer and songwriter.

Pat's company has been a pioneer in cosmetic innovations. Clientele introduced the first oil-free moisturizer in 1979, and from there Pat has led her industry to new heights by introducing the first skin-care line based on antioxidants. Her dedication to improving the health and longevity of her clients is one of the key principles of Clientele's mission. Through her revolutionary efforts, she is insuring that Clientele users not only look great, but that their makeup works for them and their health. Perhaps the greatest indication of Clientele's superior quality was the 1994 announcement from the American Academy of Anti-Aging Medicine that one of the best enzymes for slowing the aging process is the superoxide Dismutase. This came as no surprise to Pat or her customers; this enzyme has been a key ingredient in Clientele's products for over 18 years.

As if Ms. Riley were not busy enough leading an exclusive cosmetic line and a vitamin-supplement company, she also consults celebrities and other notable figures on nutrition, anti-aging, health, and longevity. "The Bold and The Beautiful" star Hunter Tylo has been a Clientele spokesperson. Having been voted one of the 50 most beautiful women in the world by "People" magazine, Hunter knows the importance of looking and feeling great. Other celebrity users include "Partridge Family" star Shirley Jones, as well as Rhonda Shear, Carol Connors, Barbara McNair, Barbara Sinatra, Lydia Heston, Stephanie Beacham, and Pat Boone, among others.

This past May, Pat was the recipient of the 1999 Jacqueline Kennedy Award from the JFK University for her dedication and pioneering efforts in the field of health and longevity.

As if these alone were not admirable accomplishments, it is her protection and respect for animal life that will surely touch your heart. Clientele has the distinction of being the first department-store cosmetics line to adopt a cruelty-free testing method. Instead, Clientele's group of leading dermatologists, nutritionists, and researchers rely on their years of experience and knowledge of ingredients. The products are then use-tested for effectiveness. Clientele's efforts have been recognized by organizations such as PETA, The Council for Economic Priorities, and The Anti-Vivisection Society, among others.

Through her marvelous work with Clientele, Ms. Riley has proven that one can do well and be successful without being merciless. Her fine products and dedication to animal life have proven once again that one can attain beauty without cruelty.

For more information on Clientele Cosmetics, please call 1-800-327-4660.

-Kareem Tabsch is a freelance writer who specializes in celebrity interviews. He has interviewed celebrities such as Elizabeth Taylor, Bob Hope, Joan Rivers, Julio Iglesias, and Barbara Mandrell, among others. He writes frequently on animal-related issues as well as on the entertainment industry.