New Season, New Skin

Resurfacing isn't just for roads. Just as spring shows us the havoc winter has played on our byways, highways, and roads less traveled—exposing new holes, ruts, and bumpy terrain—skin shows similar wear and tear, making for a rough go of things. And just as road crews spend time restoring and resurfacing roads, we have to do the same with our skin.

That's why spring is the time to rid your skin of extra buildup. In cold weather, the natural sloughing process of dead cells slows down, leaving the skin rough, dull, and dry. Resurfacing the skin replaces the old cells with healthy new ones, leaving you with a fresh, outdoorsy glow that no amount of makeup can achieve.

Resurfacing is best accomplished using natural fruit extracts and enzymes. Known for their significant retexturizing benefits and for measurably increasing cell renewal, these natural ingredients work by loosening the glue-like bonds in the upper dermis, thus encouraging cell turnover that results in fresher, smoother, and more even skin tone.

To maximize the effects, use a product with these natural extracts and enzymes frequently and consistently over a 30-day period. It's best to start in the early spring months, before the summer season and more sun exposure begins, as these ingredients could cause photosensitivity. These are active ingredients, and you will see results—but if you have sensitive skin, use them less frequently to avoid irritation or redness. Be sure to protect your fresh new skin with a daily sunscreen.

Spring Skin Savers
Here are a few deliciously scented products I recommend to renew your skin for a polished, refined look.

Cherry Jubilee Enzyme Mask by Rhonda Allison. An antioxidant mask containing pineapple, pomegranate, and wild cherry bark. Apply thin layer, leave on 20 minutes, and rinse. Use one to three times per week. rhondallison.com.

Incredible Pumpkin Peel by MyChelle. A fortifying peel that contains pumpkin extract, pineapple, and orange peel. Apply a thin layer, leave on for three to five minutes, and rinse. Use one to three times per week. mychelle.com.

Refining Face Serum by Jakaré. An anti-aging serum for nighttime use containing peach, plum, and pumpkin. Apply a thin layer and leave on all night. Rinse in the morning. Use nightly for 30 nights for maximum results, then two or three nights a week. jakare.com.

Karie Baumann is the founder of Jakaré skin care in Bozeman.