Sun Safety Tips

Sun Safety Tips for Your Next Adventure 🌞🌴

Hey travel lovers! 🌍 When it comes to protecting your skin and the world's reefs, fabric is your best friend. We all know that covering up is the best way to avoid sun damage, but did you know it's also better for the ocean? Even if you don't plan on swimming, those chemicals from sunscreens can still make their way into the water.

Why Fabric is Fab for Sun Protection

The sun hits us with two types of UV radiation: UVA and UVB, both harmful to our skin. Fabric can block these rays, but not all fabrics are created equal. Look for clothing labeled with UPF (Ultraviolet ProtectionFactor), which measures how much UV radiation can penetrate the fabric. For example, a UPF of 50 means only 1/50th of the UV rays get through – that's just 2%!

Packing Smart for Sunny Trips

Covering up sounds great until you're packing for a cruise in Tahiti or a summer trip to Rome. Here are some tips:Choose Tightly Woven Fabrics, Dark or bright colors, and shiny fabrics, offer better protection. If you can see light through it, UV rays can get through too.
Opt for UPF Clothing: Brands like HIHO and Coolies Surf offer stylish and protective options. When fabrics get wet, they can lose their protective abilities. That cotton T-shirt might only have a UPF of 7, and it drops to 3 when wet. Instead, go for yoga pants and long-sleeved rash guards. For diving, I love my wetsuit or a thinner dive skin. Don't forget a salty hat to protect your head, and a UPF neck gator to cover your face and lips. This is a good website for both men and women for clothing protection https://www.solbari.com/collections/

Sightseeing in the Sun

Loose-fitting, dense fabrics are your friends for staying cool and protected on land. UPF clothes are now widely available, even at places like Tractor Supply and Chico's. A colorful UPF neck gator is a versatile accessory that can keep you cool, protect you from the sun, and even serve as a headscarf.

Footwear Matters Too

I used to love sandals, but now I prefer canvas shoes for better sun protection on my feet. Snazzy canvas kicks can double as evening shoes, and hiking shoes are great for uneven terrain. For boating excursions, water-trekking shoes are perfect.

Hat Game Strong

Your hat can be a stylish sun-safe statement. Whether you go for a big floppy hat, a safari explorer look, or a casual ball cap, make sure it covers your head and shades your face.

Sunglasses Are a Must

Protecting your eyes is just as important. Big sunglasses offer the best protection, but make sure they filter both UVA and UVB rays. Prescription sunglasses with magnetic clip-ons or cheap online options can be great too.

The Scoop on Sunscreen

Sunscreens protect your skin from UV rays but can harm the ocean. Choose mineral-based sunscreens with zinc oxide or titanium dioxide. Avoid chemicals like oxybenzone and octinoxate, which are harmful to marine life. Hawaii and other destinations have banned these chemicals to protect their reefs.

Final Tip
 I recommend covering up with UPF clothing and using mineral-based sunscreens.  ,. Stay sun-safe and enjoy your travels! 🌞🛳️🌊