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E N P L E I N A I R The opening of the Plein Air art exhibit at Sovereign House, 7 West River St., was held last Saturday (Aug. 15). The free exhibit features the works of local artists and runs until Sept. 9. At far left, Oakville artist Carol Sanders stands out front of the historic Sovereign House with one of her oil-on-canvas landscape pieces, titled Hidden Valley Spring. At left, Gina Morewood holds Sunrise Petty Harbour (acrylic on paper) while hanging on the wall are three more of her works, from left: Lady Point, Siles Cove and Petty Harbour. | photos by Graham Paine ­ Oakville Beaver 23 | Friday, August 21, 2015 | OAKVILLE BEAVER | www.insideHALTON.com Beauty &Spa Advertorial Uneven skin tone is a common, relatively harmless condition that affects millions of people. Hyperpigmentation (darkened areas) and hypopigmentation (lightened areas) are examples of uneven skin tone conditions that people often hope to alleviate. Changes in skin tone can affect people of all ages and races. Some of the more widely known skin tone changes are the formation of freckles and age spots. Melanin is produced by the skin as a protective agent. When skin is exposed to UV radiation, melanin absorbs the sun's rays and darkens the skin to reduce instances of burns and other damage. Excessive melanin can produce darkened areas that are disproportionate to other parts of the skin. In cases where skin tone already is uneven, sun exposure can exacerbate the situation. Some skin tone abnormalities are hereditary, while oth- Control uneven skin pigmentation ers may result from hormonal issues during pregnancy. One of the easiest and most effective ways to alleviate pigmentation issues is to apply a sunscreen with a minimum SPF of 30 each and every day. Look for a product that blocks both UVA and UVB light. Exfoliation of the skin may promote faster shedding of the exterior layers of the skin. However, if you are unsure which types of products are best for your skin, consult with a dermatologist. Malasma is an uneven pigmentation that can occur on the face and may be a side effect of hormonal imbalances caused by pregnancy, menopause or use of oral contraceptives. Melasma can clear up on its own after pregnancy, but if it is linked to contraceptive use, speak with a doctor about changing the pill to using another method of contraception to see if it alleviates the problem. Makeup may be used to mask any irregularities in skin Offering CANADA tone until another treatment method is found. If topical treatments do not work, chemical peels, microdermabrasion or laser treatments may work. But such treatments should only be administered under the guidance of a quali ed doctor. (MCC) feed your addiction Foil Highlights · Japanese Hair Straightening Hair Extensions · Men's Colour 518 POSTRIDGE DRIVE 905.257.7427 colouraddiction.com colour