We all know skin care is important, but how many of us know just what is going on under the surface? Gayle McBain went along to find out what years of sunshine holidays had done to her skin. . .

IT is enough to force you to head for the nearest tree to shade from the deadly winter sun.

Yes, it's true. Even the March "sunshine" can damage your skin.

So although I have been extra careful in the Spanish sun on my summer holidays for the past 10 years or so, I could well be damaging my skin simply walking around Bolton town centre on a chilly winter's day.

It could well be that the many sunshine breaks I enjoyed as a child - when high factor suncream was unheard of - may have done irreversible damage no matter how hard I try now to look after my skin.

The Elemis Skin Lab, based in Harvey Nichols in Manchester city centre, is the place to find out.

It can determine how damaged your skin is and a trained therapist can then advise you of improvements that can be made to prevent any further damage.

It is a simple process - just minutes of in-depth photography can reveal years of damage. After an initial discussion with therapist Lena Ramgolam I had to place my chin on a rest and a special camera took photographs of my skin.

Some images were of the surface of my skin and others, taken under UV light, showed damage under the surface.

It was the "under the surface images" I was most concerned about. The images would show the UV damage my skin has suffered.

Sadly my face has suffered UV damage - but thankfully I can do something about it, ensuring it doesn't continue to be damaged by the sun, by using Elemis sunblock (with an SPF of 30) on a daily basis.

It seems bizarre but I, apparently, need to use the sunblock daily - even on cloudy days - to prevent any further damage.

Lena also recommended pro collagen marine cream - an anti-ageing treatment that can help to transform your complexion in just two weeks.

The great thing about having your skin analysed in this way is you know which products you should be using as a computer print-out reveals which cleanser, toner and moisturiser you need - and any other special products for eyes, lips and other problem areas.

Thanks to the clever photography taken by the Elemis Skin Lab I now know there are dry patches on my cheeks, areas of concern from sun damage right across my face and blocked pores needing some exfoliation around my nose.

Thankfully, I have just a few small wrinkles around my eyes which I felt strangely pleased about and left feeling quite upbeat about my report. It could, I am told by Lena, have been a lot worse.

Elemis is a gentle brand which uses natural ingredients that won't further sensitise sensitive skin. My skin is sensitive - something I hadn't previously realised - and I have promised to treat it with more care in the future.

The Skin Lab check-up also involves a chat with the beautician about your life-style - it's amazing the effect a few late nights and a glass of wine can have on your skin.

To find out more about the Elemis Skin Lab, ring 0161 828 8888. A £15 consultation fee is redeemable on any two recommended products.