In the Know: Murad

How should I advise clients on environmental skin damage? 

Our skin is faced with the harmful effects of UV rays and pollution every day and scientists are now also looking at the damage caused by blue light from devices such as mobile phones and the infrared radiation from laptops and tablets.

Visible blue light is made up of short, high-energy wavelengths that penetrate the skin more deeply than UVA and UVB. They accelerate the oxidation process, damaging the skin barrier, making it more prone to ageing and causing hyperpigmentation and inflammation.

A recent study showed that four days in front of a laptop is equivalent to 20 minutes in direct sunlight at midday and there is also evidence to support that an increase in soot and particles from traffic drives up pigmentation by 20%.

The so-called particulate matter in the air – a combination of dust, particles, pollution and soot – results in an overproduction of melanin that can cause age spots, skin darkening and inflammation. It damages collagen and elastin; thereby causing lines and wrinkles.

It’s vital to recommend that clients use night creams that help offset toxins and repair environmental damage. Plant stem cell technology and next-generation vitamin C have opened the door to supercharged antixodiants that help neutralise pollution and strengthen the skin barrier while you sleep.

Modern sunscreens not only protect against UVA and UVB but also against pollution, particulate matter, blue light and infrared radiation. Coupled with a good cleansing and exfoliation ritual, these tools help ensure clients’ skin is clear of contamination

Tracey Wilmot is training director for skincare brand Murad, overseeing the professional and retail market globally. Wilmot, who has a background as a beauty therapist and makeup artist, has more than 25 years’ experience as training director for multiple beauty brands within the professional and retail channels.