Make the Most of Your Spring

Meet the Expert: Donna Killian
As national director of education, Donna Killian oversees the Inspiration Through Education program for CosMedix, supplying skin care professionals throughout the United States with accurate, in-depth information on product dynamics, emerging technologies and industry advances.

The onset of spring means more time spent outside. Fresh air and outdoor activity are vital to our health and well-being, but can also leave skin exposed to the destructive effects of solar radiation and free radicals from air pollution, cigarette smoke and byproducts of metabolism. CosMedix National Director of Education Donna Killian explains how to make the most of your spring and show your skin some tender, loving care.

Q: What external dangers threaten my skin during the warmer months?

A: The skin and body change with each season, especially from winter to spring. It is important that we adjust our skin care program to reflect those changes. When spending time outdoors, wear a hat, apply sunscreen and keep hydrated by drinking plenty of fresh water. Geographic location also plays a large part in choosing how we are to take care and protect the skin. The closer to the equator we live, the stronger the sun’s rays. The skin requires approximately 15 to 30 minutes of daily sun exposure prior to applying sun block to facilitate the manufacturing of vitamin D.

Although we have to be aware of environmental conditions such as pollution and strong sunlight, it is also important to spend time outside away from inside stale air found in offices and homes. Spend more “green” time in the garden, park, woods or in areas away from road pollution. A walk along the beach not only improves our ability to absorb oxygen, but also helps balance our levels of serotonin, making us less prone to anxiety.

Q: How can I restore radiance to skin that has been
overexposed to environmental stressors?

A: We are fortunate to have the knowledge and advanced technology to address these issues. It makes the most sense to practice prevention before environmental factors wreak havoc on our skin, but in some instances, it is almost impossible to avoid the influences of UV rays.

Correcting the skin through a series of professional programs that include chirally correct clinical treatments—such as CosMedix’s Benefit and Timeless Peels—along with home care will help rebuild and strengthen skin tissue. Encapsulated retinol, vitamin C, enzymes and anti-inflammatory ingredients are all formulated to be gentle yet effective on the skin. CosMedix believes in building skin health from within and has developed specific supplements, known as neutraceuticals, including Balance, Neutralize and SKINamins, to help reduce inflammation, diminish excess free radical activity, support proper digestion and encourage dermal rebuilding.

Q: What steps can I take to help prevent skin damage?

A: Beauty begins from within. The immune system is a remarkable mechanism that consistently reacts on our behalf. It protects us from outside interlopers and assists in keeping us healthy. Cells must continue to manufacture quality protein and function optimally for the rebuilding of body tissues. It is important that we consume ample levels of phytochemicals (naturally occurring plant substances that have been shown to protect against disease), probiotics for digestive health and essential fatty acids for strong cell membranes.

The body should be kept in a state of alkalinity. This can be achieved through a diet rich in vitamin C and antioxidants—found in fresh fruits and vegetables—to help boost the immune system and balance the acidic effects of meats, refined sugars, alcohol, soft drinks, artificial colors, sweeteners, coffee, cigarette smoking and even negative thoughts. Fifteen minutes of daily walking helps increase circulation, boosts our immune system and increases a positive state of well-being. Reducing the inflammatory factors associated with degenerative diseases adds light years to our cells when they are experiencing optimum function.