Summer is the time of the year when skin has the potential to get damaged.

Summer is here, which means time to enjoy the bright, warm sun. Though the warm sun feels nice on our skin it is important to take precautions to avoid any skin damage.

Here are seven medical tips that will help you avoid damaging your skin during the summer:

1. Apply Sunscreen Everyday

If you are staying out in the sun for more than 15 minutes, it is highly important to apply sunscreen with SPF 30 or greater. It has been shown that about 80% of a person’s lifetime sun exposure is not caused by lying on the beach, but instead, occurs during daily activities.

2. Wear Eye Protectors

Because the skin around the eyes is extremely sensitive, it is the first area that shows signs of aging and skin damage. In order to avoid this wear sunglasses. Wearing sunglasses will shield your eyes from aging UV rays.

3. Moisturize Lips

Purchasing and applying a lip-protection balm (SPF 30 or above) can help protect lips which are especially thin-skinned. Sunburns, lip lines, and wrinkles are created if lips aren’t protected.

4. Wear UPF Clothing

Created with special coating garments that absorb UVA and UVB rays, UPF clothing can be very beneficial for your skin. Regular clothes with dark and tight woven fabrics can also be used to protect skin.

5. Avoid Sun During Certain Hours

The sun’s UV rays are the strongest between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. If it is impossible to stay away from the sun during those hours, staying under the shade or carrying an umbrella can help avoid sun damage.

6. Wear a Hat

A hat with a 2-to-3-inch brim helps protect the skin on your face and neck. By simply wearing a hat, you reduce your skin-cancer risk by 10%.

7. Reapply Sunscreen!

Sunscreen is not waterproof nor rubproof. This means it is important to reapply consistently throughout the day.