Knockout Beauty’s extensive line of non-toxic skin and haircare is developed through years of research and strategic formulation, and contains powerful anti-bacterial properties. CEO Cavaco Reck’s vast knowledge of physiology combined with her passion for helping others obtain full-body health qualifies her as a clean beauty guru. Read on to learn tips for looking and feeling your best during uncertain times.
PURIST: What can the condition of our skin tell us about our overall health?
Cayli Cavaco Reck: The skin is our largest organ and can provide information about our overall health. The skin is talking to us, we just need to speak its language. We can see which vitamins are needed, both internally and externally. Concerns such as blemishes and rosacea are signs of internal inflammation.
PURIST: Most people are familiar with taking a daily vitamin, but can you talk about why it is important to put vitamin-enriched products on your skin?
CCR: Vitamins, A, B, C, D, E are essential micro-nutrients, which our body needs but does not manufacture significantly. This is why proper supplementation is key. Antioxidants neutralize free-radicals created by harmful UV rays. Free-radicals can alter the chemical structure of the skin’s DNA, which can result in cancer. The topical anti-oxidants, the As, Cs, Es, neutralize free radicals and preserve collagen production.
PURIST: Why is it important to focus on non-toxic skin care products now more than ever? What are the benefits of using these non-toxic products?
CCR: While we are in this mode of boosting our immune systems and fighting off a novel virus, it is important to optimize our body’s defenses. The skin is our primary barrier, and by using products with non-toxic ingredients we are priming the skin to do its job.
PURIST: Since we are engaged in “radical hand washing” as you say, what can we do for our brittle nails and dry skin?
CCR: Dry your hands after washing them, and don’t forget your nails. Apply treatments and serums to damp hands to seal in the moisture, and apply a balm on dry hands.
My secret for brittle nails is the Master Booster from Evenswiss. Apply directly to the nail bed and massage into the cuticles. I do this to my toes as well, and its the perfect treatment when you remove polish.
PURIST: If Purell is not the answer–why? And what is?
CCR: It is not that Purell is NOT the answer, there is just a better answer.
Proper hand washing is more effective at killing the virus. The novel coronavirus is wrapped in a fat and protein. Soap molecules, sometimes referred to as amphiphiles by chemists, are molecules with a dual nature. One end of the molecule is attracted to water and repelled by fats and proteins, while the other end repels water but attracts fats and proteins. Conventional soap is a mixture of these “amphiphiles” and the RNA surrounding the coronavirus. Soap targets and annihilates these molecules. Hand sanitizer has a similar function but the concentration of alcohol needs to be very high to have the same effect.
PURIST: Mask etiquette: putting on the masks can chafe our skin. What do you recommend?
CCR: It has now been confirmed that we need to wear a mask when outside of our homes. For the stiff masks that do not move with your face, use a sensitive skin stick deodorant along the edge to prevent chafing. This also works to prevent blisters on the back of your heels.
PURIST: What’s your favorite product?
CCR:
An elegant, effective beauty tool which improves fine lines, skin tone and texture. The roller’s design allows products to penetrate the skin deeper than with topical application.
Also known as Niacinamide, this anti-inflammatory has the ability to speed up cell metabolism and turnover which reveals younger skin and helps fight acne.
Works to renew and replenish collagen and help with cell regeneration. We call this cream “nature’s botox”!
PURIST: The stress of the current environment is causing hair loss and premature graying. What do you suggest we do about it?
CCR: Grey hair is linked to deficiencies in Bs 12 & 6, and often concurrent with folic acid and biotin deficiency. It is important to take a methylated B complex if you have one of the MTHFR gene variations. If you are unsure if you have one of these variations, opt for a methylated B to ensure the vitamin is in bioavailable form.
Use a serum that helps with hair shedding like the Royal Fern Hair Growth Stimulating Serum or Evenswiss Booster No. 9 for hair volume. Mixing that with a gentle shampoo such as the Royal Fern Shampoo is wonderful for shedding. I also recommend the Hush and Hush Supplement Deeply Rooted.
PURIST: Here’s a look at Cayli’s starter kit products for skin care to launch you on a healthy skin regimen.
CLEANSE:
Apply onto dry or damp skin and massage into face. Remove very well with water- we like to call this the “mega-rinse”!
TONE:
The B3 Spray is clinically proven to be as effective as topical Clindamycin, and an effective acne treatment. B3 is bioconverted into Nicotinamide Adenine Dinucleotide (NAD) when absorbed into the skin. NAD is a cell-signaling coenzyme that our cells use for DNA repair. This coenzyme tightens up the cellular matrix, repairs the skin’s barrier and repairs hyperpigmentation at the cellular level.
SERUMS:
Long-chain hyaluronic acid provides immediate, intensive hydration of the surface layers of the skin. Purslane and Skullcap are anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidative active compounds that nourish and protect your skin and boost telomerase activity in cells.
This serum replenishes your skin’s natural vitamin A reserve and contains the signature Environ complex of vitamins A, C, E and antioxidants that combat the damaging effects of free radicals.
EYE CREAM:
A firming eye cream that contains a tri-peptide to stimulate collagen and elastin. Albazia Bark Extract detoxifies and strengthens capillaries, reducing dark circles and puffiness. Hyaluronic Acid and Ceramides restore moisture and plump and smooth fine lines. Provides long-lasting hydration to smooth fine lines and restore suppleness around the eye.
MOISTURIZER:
It works to renew and replenish collagen and has Tamanu oil which helps cell regeneration and fights acne.
This beautiful cream contains the unique Dermapoietin Peptide Complex and PhytoCellTec Argan which creates collagen to promote the skin’s firmness. We refer to this cream as a natural form of “filler” as it supports the skin’s natural renewal process.
SPF:
The ideal morning multi-tasker, this lightweight, silky formula delivers moisture, helps fight the signs of photo-aging and defends against UV damage, revealing smoother, more radiant looking skin. Power packed with antioxidant protection, it’s formulated for year-round use and perfect for modern day urban life.