The best approach to guarding your skin from the sun is a multi-tiered strategy that combines both topical products and sun-protective clothing. If you’re worried about mixing fashion and functionality during the summer months, rest assured that you don’t have to give up your sense of style – there are plenty of cute, comfortable ways to add protective clothing to your hot weather wardrobe. Read on to find out more.
When the sun is shining and temperatures are soaring, of course you want to avoid layers and opt for sundresses and tank tops instead. But covering up a little more can shield your skin from damage and premature aging. In this article, you’ll learn how to keep your cool in sun-protective outfits that look cute and won’t leave you feeling overheated, from lightweight scarves and dresses to clothing attire with sun protection built into the fabric.
UV protective clothing. Consumers are more aware than ever before about the dangers of too much sun exposure, and companies now offer a wide array of clothing items that include extra protection from UV rays. According to The Skin Cancer Foundation, “A shirt with a UPF of 30 will let just 1/30th of the UV reach the skin.” While clothing with UPF ratings used to be reserved for sports and outdoors enthusiasts, many companies today manufacture skin-smart clothing lines that are fashionable and designed for everyday wear.
Lightweight fabrics. When the weather heats up, it’s time to trade in your favorite pair of jeans in favor of lighter, more breathable fabrics like linen, cotton or hemp. A pair of loose-fitting linen pants, a long flowing skirt or a lightweight button-up shirt are all great workday staples in the summertime. These breathable fabrics can be surprisingly cool, even though they cover more of your body.
Smarter swimsuits. Take some time when shopping for your swimsuit this summer to find one that offers a little more coverage and protection, such as a slimming one-piece suit or a tankini. Not only are they a smarter choice for sun protection, they’re also more flattering on mature women. Some swimsuits even offer SPF protection in the fabric. Or, if you’re not a fan of swimsuits altogether, go with a tankini top and a pair of board shorts that end just above the knee.
Wrap it up. Now that you’ve found the perfect suit, complete your beach ensemble with a lightweight beach cover-up like a sarong. According to The Skin Cancer Foundation, “Cover-ups are perfect for very hot, sunny days when you need UV protection but don't want the added weight of heavy layer.” Wear it long and loose to cover your legs, or wrap it around your upper body to shield your chest and neck – have fun and be creative with it!
Trendy sunglasses. No summertime outfit is complete without a pair of high-quality sunglasses that not only flatter your face, but also protect your eyes from UV rays. Wraparound styles offer the most protection. According to EyeSmart, a publication by the American Academy of Ophthalmology, “Studies have shown that enough UV rays enter around ordinary eyeglass frames to reduce the benefits of protective lenses. Large-framed wraparound sunglasses can protect your eyes from all angles.”
For maximum protection, look for an eye cream with SPF as well. Murad Essential-C Eye Cream SPF 15 will leave the skin around the eyes looking more youthful.
A sophisticated scarf. If you typically reserve scarves for winter weather, it’s time to start incorporating summer-weight scarves into your ensemble. Look for scarves in summer’s bright hues to add character to your outfits and block the sun from damaging the skin on your neck and chest. Scarves made from a breathable fabric, like a polyester weave, are your best bet.
Shirts with tight weaves. When choosing between fabrics, avoid loosely woven clothing items. "Shirts with tight weaves are much more protective than shirts with loose weaves," Martin Weinstock, chief of dermatology at the VA Medical Center in Providence, Rhode Island, tells CNN. If you’re not a fan of synthetic materials, The American Academy of Dermatology recommends, “Tightly woven cotton blends are nearly as UV protective and more comfortable in high heat and humidity.”
Baseball cap. If you’re big on outdoor summer activities like hiking and camping, a baseball cap with built-in UV protection is a summertime necessity. Most outdoors stores carry a variety. Keep in mind that your neck will still be completely exposed; you can tie a bandana around the back of your neck, or use a spray like AHAVA Sun Protection Anti Aging Moisturizing Spray SPF 30.
Beach hat. Lounging around the pool or on the beach is the perfect occasion for a stylish wide-brimmed hat. Whether you prefer a floppy canvas hat or a classic straw hat, both styles work perfectly for keeping the sun off your face and neck – as well as those often forgotten places like the scalp and ears. Plus, they’re a great accessory piece to spice up any outfit.
Don’t replace your sunscreen. Covering up with the right attire is a smart move – however, make sure that your clothing doesn’t replace sunscreen entirely. Always layer up by using sunscreen on both your face and body when you’re outside. Try a set like La Roche Posay Anthelios 60 Face and Body Duo, a product set that contains a specialized ingredient called Cell-Ox shield, which protect skin at the cellular level. And don’t forget to protect your lips with a balm like Kerstin Florian Lip Balm SPF 15.
Smart fashion means more than just trying new colors and styles. It also means thinking about how your choices now will affect your skin and health in the future. By being creative with your summer fashion sense and incorporating a few protective clothing pieces and accessories into your wardrobe, you can look and feel both beautiful and healthy for years to come.
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See also:
Summer Fashion Preview: Fun and Flirty Tips for Fashion, Style and Makeup
Beauty Tips for Looking Gorgeous in Glasses
Smart Summer Fashion and Beauty: Tips and Products that Protect Your Eyes From Sun Damage