So sorry to disappoint you but there is no such thing as a healthy tan! A tan is visible proof that your skin has been damaged. In my earlier description of the structure of your skin I mentioned cells called melanocytes. These cells produce a dark brown pigment called melanin which gives the skin its natural colour. When skin is exposed to UV rays the melanocytes spring into action by producing more melanin in a bid to absorb the UV and protect the underlying structure. I suppose you could say that melanin is your body’s natural sunscreen but with an SPF of just 2 it really offers only the scarcest of protection. Even if you possess gorgeous skin of colour such as an Afro-Caribbean or Asian skin tone you still need to protect your skin. Yes, darker skin does have increased melanin, but definitely not enough to protect you from the harsh effects of UV rays. The sun may feel good on your skin but UV rays cause the skin to age rapidly - leading to uneven pigmentation, leathery texture and deep wrinkles. Repeated sun exposure can also cause age spots. An age spot is really a solar lento (a tiny bit of pigmentation caused by sun exposure). But the dangers of sun exposure are not just on the surface. Your skin protects your body from destructive outside forces and contains the necessary elements that are essential to the good health of your immune system. The epidermis (outer layer of skin) contains Langerhan Cells which prevent bacteria from attacking your immune system and just a few minutes of UV exposure can damage these cells. The best way to protect yourself is by using an effective sunscreen, of which more later!
The skin around your eyes is exceedingly thin, delicate and very fragile indeed! For those very reasons it's the first place to show signs of a weary spirit and stressed lifestyle. Dark shadows, puffiness and those horrid little dryness lines are all signs that you need to take time out and treat yourself to a simple reviving treatment. My Revitalizing Eye Treatment is a stupendously easy, utterly relaxing and works a treat. The combination of soothing Chamomile Flower Water and regenerating Argan Eye Balm will ensure your skin is super moisturized, deliciously plumptious and perfectly renewed. Here's What You Need Chamomile Flower Water Argan Eye Balm Oval Cotton Pads Step One - Place four cotton pads in a small bowl (or teacup) and pour on enough Chamomile Flower Water to completely drench the pads. Cover bowl with cling film (or saran wrap for my lovely North American readers!) and place in fridge for about half an hour. Step Two - Take a small amo...