Skin Deep Advice

Summertime and the living’s not easy for your skin. The body’s largest organ must stay tough enough at this time of year to protect against dehydration, weather, and insects, yet soft enough to caress.

Even more important is protecting against skin cancer. While fairer skin is most likely to suffer sunburns associated with melanoma, a potentially deadly skin cancer, ultraviolet (UV) rays may also affect darker skin even without sunburn, according to the American Cancer Society. While they have a lower incidence of skin cancer, Hispanics and Afri- can Americans have higher death rates from the disease, often because the cancers are found at later stages, says the National Cancer Institute.

Here are ways to care for your skin.

Make sure to wear sunscreen in uncovered areas. For swimming and activities that make you sweat, SPF 30 to 45 is considered adequate. Antibiotics, antihistamines, and antidepressants may increase skin sensitivity to the sun. Resulting irregular pigmentation, more common with darker skin, can be treated with prescription fade creams.

Seawater, wind, and chemicals in pools can be rough on skin. After exposure, start with a shower and then apply moisturizer. Baby oil is a simple and economical moisturizer.

Harvard researchers say the antioxidant lutein, found in dark-green leafy vegetables, can protect skin. Green tea extract applied topically seems to prevent UV-induced skin inflammation. With a little extra attention, your skin will keep you covered—not only in the summer but all year long.