When it comes to protecting you and your child from the harmful effects of the sun, remember it is as easy as 1,2,3:
- Sunblock
- Sunglasses
- Protective Hat
Rating clothing and hats for sun protection is becoming increasingly commonplace. Clothing and hats may be labeled with an Ultraviolet Protection Factor (UPF) number on the label. UPF labels indicate how much of the sun’s Ultraviolet Rays are absorbed by the product’s fabric. A hat with a UPF of 30 will allow just 1/30 of the sun’s UVR to reach the skin. When you select clothing and hats with UPF protection, look for a minimum of UPF 30.
Here are some guidelines from the Skin Cancer Foundation for selecting a hats that provide you and your child with solid sun protection:
- Wide Brims: Hats with at least a 3″- brim encircling the circumference protect the face, ears, and neck. Examples include the bucket, cowboy, outback, and Panama.
- Curved Shapes: Look for hats that follow the contours of the head and neck.
- Dark Colors: Dark- or bright-colored hats absorb UVR better than paler colors.
- Opaque Materials: The denser the fabric, the higher the UPF. Look for closed-weave fabrics or tightly-woven straw.
For optimum sun protection, be sure to wear your hat with a pair of sunglasses and a liberal application of sunscreen. And don’t forget, Real Kids Shades provide serious eye protection for infants and children. Visit our website to learn more about our quality children’s sunglasses.