True confession time: My daily routine does not include sunblock. I only ever use it when spending a long day outside in the garden or on the boat. I like vitamin D.

So I found out the hard way how different the sun is in North Carolina than back in Massachusetts. Different meaning intense. One summer here and my hands and forearms became covered in sunspots. It was really noticeable and a little embarrassing.

Luckily, I'd just discovered Buriti (pronounced bur-ree-chee) oil, highly touted as able to lighten dark spots caused by the sun as well as help protect skin from photo-damage.

The oil is extracted from the pulp of the fruit of the Moriche (Mauritia flexuosa) palm tree native to tropical South America. Brown and scaly on the outside, the fruit inside is sweet and delicious.

Buriti oil's naturally vibrant orange color is due to its high concentration of beta-carotene, a precursor of vitamin A, making it a plant-based alternative to retinoids. It’s also high in vitamin E.

It worked well to fade the brown patches on my arms and amazingly has evened out the more damaged-looking, shockingly-white spots on my hands. I'm so impressed, I made Buriti oil the star of my first blend, 'Sea Change'.

Adding to this skin rescue magic, Buriti oil's anti-inflammatory properties soothe the rash, redness, irritation, and sensitivity skin gets from over-exposure to the elements.

It feels light and sinks in quickly but is very emollient, helping to moisturize and rehydrate skin. Regular use restores elasticity which reduces the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.

As I go sailing off into my double-nickle year (I'm turning 55), you can bet I'll be keeping Buriti oil at my side. I plan on spending alot more time on the water this season but you'll never guess from looking at me ;)