Spring Skin, Reset With Corinna Tolan: Why Skin Longevity and Inflammation Control Matter More Than Ever
As we transition to slightly higher temperatures, winter becomes one of the most inflammatory periods for the skin, with its effects often surfacing during the seasonal change. Increased dryness, impaired barrier function, sensitivity and flare-ups are often treated as surface issues, but according to master skin facialist Corinna Tolan, the real damage happens much deeper.
“Late winter and early spring are when I see the most accelerated skin ageing,” explains Tolan, Co-Founder of Monica Tolan Skin Experts. “Not because skin looks dry, but because chronic inflammation quietly disrupts the skin’s immune system. Over time, that inflammation drives pigmentation, congestion, acne and premature ageing.”
In recent years, inflammation has become one of the most widely discussed drivers of ageing, and the skin is no exception. When the skin’s microbiome becomes imbalanced, the immune system remains in a constant, low-grade inflammatory state, weakening the barrier and accelerating visible ageing.
“The microbes on our skin control how our immune system behaves,” says Tolan. “If that ecosystem is disturbed through over-exfoliation, harsh actives, stress or seasonal shifts in temperature and environment, SPRING UPDATE inflammation takes over. That’s when we see sensitivity, redness, breakouts and pigmentation that just won’t settle.”
Rather than chasing instant results or aggressive treatments, Corinna advocates a longevity-first approach supporting skin health so it functions optimally for decades to come.
“Skin longevity isn’t about trying to make skin look younger,” she explains. “It’s about creating healthy skin that ages well. When the skin is calm, balanced and supported at a microbial level, it naturally looks clearer, stronger and more resilient; particularly during periods of seasonal change.”
SIV Biome-Balancing Serum is designed to work with the skin, not against it. Using spore-based technology, SIV helps regulate inflammation by supporting the skin’s microbiome, encouraging beneficial bacteria while limiting overgrowth that triggers immune responses.
Unlike traditional anti-ageing products that target lines or pigmentation directly, SIV focuses on long-term skin health.
“SIV is anti-inflammatory by design,” says Tolan. “It calms the skin at the source. When inflammation is reduced, pigmentation improves, congestion settles, and the barrier can finally repair itself.”
SIV is suitable for everyone, from those with no visible skin issues to clients with compromised or sensitised skin. It is particularly beneficial for:
- Over-exfoliated or barrier-impaired skin
- Skin that feels reactive after using multiple skincare brands
- Sensitivity, redness or dehydration
- Congestion-prone or acne-affected skin
- Clients experiencing winter flare-ups
Corinna has worked with a wide range of VIP clients over the years, including successfully treating TV Presenter Maura Higgins’ skin, and notes that microbiome support is often the missing piece in stubborn skin conditions.
“Many people think their skin is ‘just sensitive now’,” she says. “In reality, the barrier and microbiome are damaged. Once that’s addressed, the skin behaves completely differently.”
Free from added fragrance and formulated with biocompatible ingredients, SIV integrates seamlessly into any routine strengthening skin through the most challenging season and beyond.
“This is skincare that thinks long-term,” concludes Tolan. “Late winter and early spring is when we should be protecting our skin’s future, not fighting symptoms.”
The SIV Biome-Balancing Serum (€90.00) is now available exclusively from Monica Tolan Skin Experts both in-salon and via monicatolan.com.