We all know that sun damage is the biggest cause of premature ageing…

… So why is it that even celebrities like Simon Cowell and Kim Kardashian are being caught short..?

And it’s not just celebrities who are affected. In a recent survey by sensitive skin experts Eau Thermale Avène, 55% of us in the UK admit to suffering with sun damaged skin, with 54% agreeing that this has an impact on their psychological well-being and 30% recognising that pigmentation makes us look older or less attractive.

To prevent premature ageing and pigmentation Cosmetic dermatologist, Dr. Sam Bunting, says “Sun avoidance is crucial; a diet rich in antioxidants may also be beneficial, as is applying topical antioxidants.”

Very High Protection SPF 50+ Emulsion (£15.00, 50ml Boots)

Ideal for those looking for high protection, this non-greasy formula is suitable for face and body application. This light and readily absorbed formula contains oil regulating Cucurbita pepo extract to give normal to combination skin a matte finish.

Hydrance UV Light

Paraben-free, hypoallergenic and non-comedogenic, the Eau Thermale Avène Hydrance Optimale UV SPF20 moisturisers (£14.50, 40ml Boots) are perfect for dealing with the aggressions of everyday life. They offer SPF 20 protection against damaging UV rays (without leaving chalky white marks on the skin) and Pre-tocopheryl which lends an anti-radical action and shields skin from the environment’s harmful effects, e.g. pollution, cold and stress.

Trilogy’s Daily Defence Moisturiser with SPF15 (£28.50 Boots)

Easy to apply and with 100% pure plant oils for long lasting hydration, this lightweight botanical moisturiser includes a new generation SPF15 for effective UVA/UVB protection. By absorbing, reflecting and scattering UV rays, this new generation SPF coats the entire surface of the skin, not just the higher ridges, for maximum protection. It has clinically proven natural actives to help you achieve your best complexion from the first signs of ageing and as your skin matures.

To help reduce future sun damage and erase age spots try Avène’s new D-Pigment (£35, 30ml Boots). Using a trio of skin lightening actives D-Pigment slows down melanin production, lightens the skin, helps to renew cells and provides a protective antioxidant to help prevent new spots and patches appearing. In clinical trials, D-Pigment was found to reduce lentigo hyperpigmentation, by an average of 81%, significantly higher than the placebo after three months.[2] Use D-Pigment as part of your night time regime to leave you with a glowing and even complexion.

To further avoid getting caught out, Bao-Tam Phan, pharmacist and skincare expert at Eau Thermale Avène offers these top tips to keep skin sun-safe:

· Reapply sunscreen frequently, especially after swimming, sports or during prolonged periods of exposure

· Never remain in the sun for long periods – even if using a high SPF product

· Avoid sun exposure between noon and 4pm

· Beware of reflected sun – you can burn even wearing a hat or staying under an umbrella

· Avoid exposing young children (under 3 years) to the sun – protect them with a hat and T-shirt as well as Eau Thermale Avène SPF50+ Very High Protection Mineral Cream even on cloudy days.

· Use the correct amount of sunscreen to get the maximum protection (as a general rule, apply ‘one finger’ of product to the face, and ‘two fingers’ for each other part of the body)