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It is a birthday party and all are invited, but there is no need to bring gifts.

Complete with cake, refreshments, balloons and gift prizes, Marshall Town Center Younkers will throw a party from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday honoring the Clinique counter and its 40 years of skin care success.

"We thought it would be fun to have a big birthday party," said Clinique Counter Manager Paulla Hartman. "Especially since the company has been around since 1968."

Clinique's inception began a year earlier when Vogue Editor Carol Phillips consulted with dermatologist Dr. Norman Orentreich for an article entitled "Can Great Skin Be Created?" The article gained attention from the Este Lauder Company which then created the Clinique line of makeup, skin care and fragrance which is currently sold in 113 countries worldwide.

Making the company unique, all products are allergy tested and 100 percent fragrance-free which is not only advantageous to those with allergies, but for people who are dealing with sensitive skin due to reactions from chemotherapy.

Accredited Clinique consultant Madaleine Welton said there is interest in Clinique to form a partnership with the local Cancer Support Group in assisting cancer patients with skin care during difficult times.

"People want to feel good about themselves when they're going through a difficult time," she said. "It's not just about makeup. It's about healthy skin."