First, let me say that you shouldn't wait until summer to start taking care of your skin. A good quality sunscreen is always a wise investment, but good skin care should be a year-round endeavor.  This month, I will discuss some important factors in the protection of your skin, the body's largest organ.

Sunscreen
Sun protection is the most important step in preventing skin cancer and signs of aging. There are two types of rays, UVA and UVB, and it's helpful to understand their differences.

UVB rays are stronger in the summer. Their shorter wavelength damages the outer layer of skin, and can cause sunburn, cataracts, and superficial skin cancers.

UVA rays are strong throughout the year, which is why it's important to always use a broad-spectrum sunscreen. Their longer wavelength penetrates deeper, and can cause sunspots, wrinkling, and melanoma. UVA rays can pass through glass, unlike UVB, which is why they're used in tanning beds.
To protect against UVA, you can physically block them with minerals such as Zinc Oxide (use microfine Z-Cote) or Titanium Dioxide (the thick white stuff). You can also use high-quality mineral makeup such as Being True, which contains additional protective antioxidants, or Jane Iredale. Newer chemical sunscreens containing the compounds Mexoryl SX (found in SkinCeuticals and Lancome) or Avobenzone (found in Neutrogena Helioplex) are highly effective.

Antioxidants
Antioxidants protect the skin from oxygenation, which damages cells, depletes collagen, and contributes to sunspots and skin cancer. The most well-known are Vitamins C & E, beta-carotene, and selenium. Green tea and lycopene (the red pigment found in tomatoes) have also been found to have sun-protective effects.

A diet that is low in processed foods and rich in brightly-colored fruits and vegetables will provide well-rounded protection against cancers, including those of the skin. Studies show that antioxidant supplements do not provide the same cancer protection as the actual food, so eat up those nine servings a day.

Topical Antioxidants work like lemon juice on the flesh of an apple, protecting cells from damage and actually reversing some damage that may have already occurred.  Topical application helps reverse and prevent aging. For best results look for a serum containing Vitamins C and E, as well as Coenzyme Q-10 or Idebenone.

Omega-3 Fatty Acids
In addition to being beneficial to your heart and brain, Omega-3 fatty acids help keep skin cells moist and strong. Recent studies have demonstrated that insufficient levels can lead to a host of skin problems, including premature wrinkling.

Two very important Omega-3s, EPA and DHA, are found in high levels in oily fish. I recommend a combined daily dose of EPA and DHA 1000-2000 mg to improve the smoothness and radiance of your skin.

For a vegetarian option, try ALA, an Omega-3 found in flax seeds and nuts, though its protective effect is less.

This summer has been a long time coming, so resist the urge to rush out without the proper protection. Remember to always apply your sunscreen at least 20 minutes prior to sun exposure.