Protect Yourself: Sun Protection Hats
Many years ago, most people did not worry too much if they were spending a lot of time out-of-doors, in the direct sunshine. They believed (as many still do) that unlimited, unrestricted amounts of sun were totally beneficial. Today, we know better. We understand that over-exposure to the sun can cause premature aging (drying and wrinkling) of the skin. We are also well informed on the sun and skin cancer link. Skin cancer has been linked, in particular, to Ultraviolet (UV) radiation. That's why sun protection hats have become an essential part of many people's wardrobe.
Sun Protection Hats: Are Baseball Caps Good Enough?
Since many people (both men and women) today wear baseball caps, they sometimes feel that wearing them gives adequate protection from the sun. But while baseball caps will provide sun shielding for your eyes, they will not do an adequate job as a total sun-protector. Why? Baseball caps do not have a brim or bill that goes all around the hat, so your neck, shoulders, ears and other parts of your face will not be protected. There are, however, special baseball sun protection hats that have extra fabric attached on the back which drapes on your neck and shoulders, providing the protection that you need.
What Materials Are Best For Sun Protection Hats? Actually any material can be used for hats, but not all materials are suitable for sun protection hats. An old-fashioned choice is straw. Straw hats are great sun protection hats, as they block out much of the light, yet this material is lightweight and cool. Straw hats, because they are woven, are 'breathable'. Whatever material or design you choose, your sun protection hat should have a very broad brim, so that it will cast a large shadow over your entire face, neck and shoulders -- especially if your neck and shoulders will be exposed while swimming or wearing sleeveless shirts. If you will need a sun protection hat for use in athletic activities, you should buy one that has a chin strap - you can tie it down and it won't come off while running or playing games. Of course, sun protection hats that are white in color will reflect most of the light away from your body. White, however, also shows dust, dirt and stains very easily. If it is at all possible, try to get a sun protection hat that provides a UPF protection level of 50 or more -- this will block at least 90-95% of all UV rays while out-of-doors. Be safe this summer - wear sun protection hats!
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