What inspired you to start Kahina?

I was looking for all-natural, simple and effective skincare when I discovered Argan Oil while vacationing in Morocco in 2007.  After using it on my own skin, I realized I had found the ingredient I had been searching for.  I decided to create the line I had been looking for – ethically produced, effective, and beautifully packaged.

How is health and wellness part of your company ethos?

We believe that healthy skin is a reflection of how you treat yourself, in terms of exercise, nutrition and sleep.  What you put on your skin is as important as what you put in your body.  And how you behave towards others is an important part of wellness, too, which is why we pay a fair wage and donate additionally to the impoverished women of Morocco who extract the oil at the heart of our line.

When did you first become aware of sun safety as it relates to health and beauty?

Unfortunately, I learned too late.  I was a teenager in California in the 70s when tanning was very popular.  I used to use baby oil to achieve a dark tan.  I have paid the price in terms of sun damage.

How do you integrate sun protection into your beauty routine?

Sun care is now an essential part of my beauty routine.  I use a tinted sunscreen brand called Suntegrity as my foundation and always wear a hat in the summer months when I spend a lot of time outdoors.  Our skincare line does not contain a SPF, so I always recommend the addition of a zinc-based physical sunscreen to complement a Kahina skincare routine, which is rich in antioxidants to protect against UV damage at the cellular level.

For more on Kahina Giving Beauty, go here.