You might be feeling the chill outdoors right now but your skin is still feeling the heat. Uneven skin tone, texture and colour are usually the result of sun damage, and thanks to the great big ozone hole hanging over our heads, most New Zealanders are victims of the sun. But don’t despair! Winter is the ideal time to deal to the signs of sun damage and we’ve got the best ways to get it sorted.

Colour Code
Before you can protect yourself from the sun (and reverse its effects) it’s important to understand how your skin gets it colour.

Melanin is the substance that gives the skin and hair its natural colour. It also gives colour to the iris of the eye, feathers, and scales. Melanin filters and absorbs UV light to provide a natural protection against sun burns. Unfortunately, it does not provide complete broad spectrum protection. The surge in melanin production we see as a sun-tan is in fact an indication that skin cells have been damaged by penetrating UVA rays.

Slip, slop, slap
While there are products and treatments to help minimise the effects of sun damaged skin, prevention is always best. Don’t forget the old mantra you were taught at primary school – slip, slop, slap!

In particular remember to be extra vigilant when the sun is at its highest and don’t be fooled by cloud cover – you can still get burnt.

If you find it difficult to remember to put on sunscreen every morning or just don’t like the feel of it on your face, opt for a moisturiser with inbuilt SPF like Murad’s White Brilliance Illuminating Day Moisture SPF 30. Although this moisturiser feels light, it’s intensely hydrating (perfect for winter’s drying conditions) and also provides strong protection against the sun’s harmful rays.

Winter Focus
While sun damage might not be at the forefront of your mind at this time of year, it should be. It’s best to work on reducing sun spots, freckling, uneven skin tone and lines and wrinkles during winter to minimise further damage as professional treatments can leave your skin temporarily more sensitive to the sun.

Go Pro
There are a number of treatments available to suit all the signs of sun damage. It’s important to consult with your Caci skin care specialist to find out exactly what is right for you.

Fine lines and age spots: A glycolic peel that removes the surface layers of skin can reduce fine lines and spots and give the skin an overall freshness.

Redness, capillaries, freckles, age spots and uneven skin tone: Photo rejuvination, which stimulate collagen in the skin, can help with these issues.

Hyperpigmentation (skin becoming darker): Microdermabrasion is a popular treatment for dealing with an uneven skin tone as the exfoliating process removes the outer layers of skin revealing the clearer layers below.

If you want to improve your skin’s luminosity, even out your complexion, lighten spots and minimise the appearance of large pores, Murad’s new White Brilliance range is best for you. These professional treatments and Murad products are available at Caci clinics throughout New Zealand.