A brand built around the belief that vitamin A is ‘oxygen’ to the skin.
A brand built around the belief that vitamin A is ‘oxygen’ to the skin.
“I wanted to make something that would help skin be better, not merely feel or appear better”
“Everyone suffers from vitamin A deficiency, which has been scientifically proven to be the root cause of unhealthy and ageing skin,” says Dr Des Fernandes, founder and scientific director of Environ Skin Care, a pioneer of groundbreaking developments in the field, and rated among the world’s best plastic surgeons in the 1980s. As such, it’s been the cornerstone ingredient for all products since the brand’s establishment in 1990, combined with other skin nutrients like antioxidants and peptides to improve skin at a cellular level.
By correcting vitamin A deficiencies, skin cell functioning is normalised, consequently becoming more resilient and better equipped to prevent future damage, promoting the growth of skin cells, strengthening and firming the outer layer, supporting the dermatological immune system and preventing breakouts. “I wanted to make something that would help skin actually be better, not merely feel or appear better,” says Dr Fernandes. With 140 products in more than 70 countries, Environ is popular with skin care therapists, dermatologists and celebrities alike for treating a range of conditions, from pigmentation to sensitivities.
While vitamin A occurs naturally in the body, exposure to sun, city living and environmental stressors depletes our natural reserves. As a result, the ability of cells to absorb it decreases, and Dr Fernandes explains its reintroduction needs to be slow to avoid retinoid reactions. To help skin gradually adjust, the brand’s Vitamin Stepup System involves a skin consultation and product recommendation from an Environtrained therapist skin care professional to prescribe an effective routine, including professionals at the Spa at Mandarin Oriental, Hong Kong, where the line can be purchased.
Healthy, beautiful skin can be accessed through Environ Skin Care says Dr Fernandes. “It is for everyone, regardless of age, gender or race. Our world is one where the power of science, and a little patience, can assist in restoring, reviving and rehabilitating the appearance of the skin.” Due to the highly powerful ingredient combinations and minimal use of preservatives, products are specially packaged to protect them from light and air to maintain integrity and efficacy of its formulations.
Dr Fernandes says that vitamin A is the only molecule that can reverse photo damage and intrinsic ageing, but that topical application may not be sufficient as it cannot be absorbed into the bloodstream. He says, “I recommend oral vitamin A at doses of between 40,000 to 100,000IU per day. I have taken this myself for about 22 years, and contrary to popular belief, it is not a toxic dose. Studies show healthier production of collagen elastin and greater protection of the skin when one does this.”
