Australia is well-known for its beautiful beaches and stunning weather. But what many people don't realize is that the sun can be hazardous. Many Australians have long been aware of the dangers of the sun, but with summer now in full swing, the need for sun protection is more important than ever. The majority of skin cancers are caused by exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun, and Australia has some of the highest UV index levels in the world. In fact, Australians are exposed to up to 10 times more UV than people living in Europe.This high level of UV radiation can cause skin cancer, which is the most common cancer in Australia. In fact, it's estimated that two in three Australians will be diagnosed with skin cancer by the time they're 70. That’s why it’s more important than ever to protect yourself from the sun.While there are a number of ways to protect yourself from the sun, one of the most important is to wear a sun hat. Wearing sunscreen and light-colored clothing is a good start, but the best way to stay safe in extreme heat is to wear a sun hat. A wide-brimmed sun hat will protect your face, neck, and shoulders from the sun’s harmful rays. It will also help keep you cool by shading your head and giving you some ventilation.During the daily sun protection times, use a combination of 5 sun protection measures to reduce your risk of skin damage and sunburn:SlipSlip on sun-protective clothing (make sure it covers as much skin as possible).SlopSlop on SPF (sun protection factor) 30 or higher broad-spectrum, water-resistant sunscreen. Apply 20 minutes before going outdoors and reapply every 2 hours.SlapSlap on a broad-brimmed hat that protects your face, head, neck, and ears.SeekSeek shade during the middle of the day when the sun is at its hottest.SlideSlide or wrap around sunglasses – make sure they wrap around and block out as close to 100% of both UVA and UVB rays.Skin cancer in AustraliaSkin cancer is the most common type of cancer, according to the World Health Organisation. In Australia, over 1,500 people died from melanoma (the deadliest form of skin cancer) in 2011 – that's three times more than the 521 people who lost their lives fighting non-melanoma skin cancer.In Australia, research shows that 1 in every 2 people will be diagnosed with skin cancer before they are 75 years old, and it is often said that 70% of all Australians will be affected by skin cancer at some point in their lives. That's a staggering number when you consider that more than two-thirds of these diagnoses are preventable with simple protection from the sun.In 2014, Queensland topped the list of those suffering the most severe cases of skin cancer - data released by the Cancer Council revealed that almost one in three patients were diagnosed with stage 3 or 4 melanoma - a statistic which has doubled since 2000. See a doctor or seek treatment from the nearest hospital emergency department if you experience severe sunburn.Research shows from the Cancer Council ACT estimates that up to 20% of the population will be affected by skin cancer in their lifetime. While rates of melanoma have been rising for years, the number of non-melanoma skin cancers has also been steadily increasing and is now about three times more frequent than melanomas.We all know that sunscreen prevents sunburn and slows aging caused by UV rays, but did you know sun hat can also reduce your risk of developing skin cancer? Although UV index exposure is critical for vitamin D production, overexposure to sunlight can cause damage to our skin cells, which increases our risk of developing both non-melanoma and melanoma cancers.While we are all aware of the dangers UV exposure poses to our skin and health as we grow older--as seen in the increase in rates of skin cancer over time--we need to work toward increasing awareness earlier on so that we can start protecting ourselves when we are young adults and not have to deal with serious consequences later on.What is the hottest summer on record in Australia?On the Australian continent, summer is in full swing. This year's summer temperatures in the southern hemisphere are being measured against others over the past 50 years. All-time temperature records for Australia have been set over the past months, and the worst may be yet to come.According to BBC, Australia has matched its hottest day on record after a remote coastal town reported temperatures of 50.7C (123.26F), just months after the nation sweltered through its warmest winter on record.On December 17, 2015, the temperature in Onslow, Australia hit 49.7C (121.5F), setting a new record for the highest temperature ever recorded in New South Wales. A few days later, the same area recorded an even higher temperature of 50.9C (123.4 F). The extreme heat is no longer contained to interior regions; it’s spreading across the entire country. While inland centers like Alice Springs and Kalgoorlie have recently seen temperatures above 47C (116F), Sydney—the largest city in Australia’s most populous state—is now regularly hitting over 33C (91F).There is well-established evidence that exposure to ultraviolet radiation (UVR) from the sun can lead to skin cancer. Onslow is home to fewer than 2000 people and is located approximately 1,000km (620 miles) north of Perth, in the Pilbara region. The temperature matched that recorded in Oodnadatta in South Australia in January 1962.The Bureau of Meteorology said it was "extremely unlikely" that the record would be broken anytime soon given the current climate trend towards cooler conditions and higher rainfall across the country. The average daily maximum temperature in Australia's summer capital Sydney is generally 31C (88F). The average maximum in Canberra, the nation's capital, is 29C (84F). Queensland state's much-maligned capital city Brisbane averages an even more temperate 26C (79F) during summer.On top of that, some forecasters are predicting that the heat wave could last until at least November and reach new heights before it abates. Adelaide has already had its hottest summer on record by a wide margin, with an average temperature of 3.3 degrees Celsius (5.9 degrees Fahrenheit) above normal from September 1 through October 8. The Northern Territory capital of Darwin also had its warmest start to the dry season—a period of at least three months with no rain—since 1902.Most will remember the catastrophic bushfires that destroyed several towns in Victoria in 2009 but not many will remember that these fires also followed two heatwave events across Victoria and South Australia, where at least 432 people died. In 2009, new records of three consecutive days over 43C in Melbourne and eight over 40C in Adelaide were set.The pattern of extreme heat in Western Australia and flooding in parts of Queensland is fairly typical of a La Niña summer, although temperatures over 50℃ are extremely rare. Deaths also occurred in South Australia, Western Australia, Victoria and Queensland.This means that this weather event is one for the books—literally—and it makes it clear that climate change isn't just an issue for our grandchildren or great-grandchildren; it's an issue now and we need to do something about it now. The time to act is now!How can skin cancer be prevented in Australia?For all skin cancers, avoiding sun exposure to UV radiation is the most important factor in preventing and reducing the risk of cancer. Prolonged exposure to UV is a risk factor for cataracts When UV levels reach 3 and above, Cancer Council ACT recommends wearing a hat that offers protection to the face, back of the neck, eyes, and ears when UV levels reach 3 and above, in Torres strait islander peoples or if spending extended time outdoors.It may be surprising that a sun hat would be recommended over sunglasses or sunscreen, but consider that bucket hats offer protection to the face, back of the neck, eyes, and ears when UV levels reach 3 and above. In other words, it blocks out more than just the sun's rays and provides you with head-to-toe coverage from solar radiation.UV radiation levels are highest between about 9 am and 4 pm, depending on where you are in Australia and the time of year. Wearing a hat with other forms of sun protection—shade, clothing, sunglasses, and sunscreen—is also important because a straw hat tends to block out only about 50 percent of UV rays.In winter it's warm enough that you can wrap yourself in a blanket and feel comfortable without turning on the heater, but for the whole summer you'll be dying without an air conditioner. If you live in a double-storey house, make sure you have air conditioning and heating otherwise the heat will always rise to the top floor (rendering the bottom floor useless in winter and the top in summer). When the heat has passed, continue to drink plenty of cool water spending time in the sun can lead to dehydration as well as sunburn.. Overall, as long as you have heating and cooling in Melbourne you'll be fine.But don't forget your face! Shade can't protect your cheeks or nose from sunburns if you're outside for an extended period of time.What are sun hats called?Sun hats are also called brim hats because they have a wide brim that helps to shade the face and neck from the sun. They are usually made of lightweight fabric so that they can be worn in the heat without causing too much of a problem. Many people choose to wear sun hats when they are outside for extended periods of time, such as at the beach or pool.Others may wear them during activities like gardening or hiking. Wearing a sun hat can help to prevent skin damage and reduce the risk of developing skin cancer.Koala Pro Tip: If you spend extended time outdoors, make sure you wear brimmed hats that will protect your face, neck, ears, and eyes. Baseball caps or sun visors are not recommended because they leave large areas of the head unprotected. Wear them with other forms of sun protection— dense shade, clothing, sunglasses, and sunscreen.Does a hat protect you from the sun?Yes, a hat can help protect you from the sun. Wearing a wide-brimmed hat can shade your face, neck, and ears from the sun's ultraviolet (UV) rays. A hat with a brim that is at least four inches wide offers the best sun protection. Look for a hat that is labeled "UPF 50+." This means that it blocks at least 98% of Ultraviolet radiation. Wear a hat even on cloudy days, because the sun's rays can penetrate clouds.While most people find extremely hot weather and heatwaves uncomfortable, some people have a higher risk than others of becoming ill. These include elderly people aged over 75 years, babies and young children people with long-term health conditions, for example, heart or respiratory disease, diabetes or circulatory diseases people who are taking certain medications, such as those for high blood pressure or psychiatric illnesses people who have previously suffered from heatstroke or heat exhaustion.If you're in one of these groups, it's important to take extra care to stay cool and hydrated during hot weather. You may need to avoid going out during the hottest part of the day, or take extra precautions such as wearing loose, cool clothing and drinking plenty of fluids.What is the best type of sun hat?The best type of sun hat is one that provides adequate coverage for your face, head, and neck. Wearing brimmed hats is ideal, as it will protect your skin from the harmful UV radiation of the sun. However, some factors to consider when choosing a sun hat include the material (e.g., straw hat vs. cotton), the brim size (e.g., wide-brimmed vs. narrow-brimmed bucket hats), and the style (e.g., fedora vs. baseball cap). Ultimately, the best sun hat for you is the one that you feel most comfortable wearing and that provides the most protection from the sun.The best type of sun hat for you will depend on a number of factors, including your personal style and the activities you plan on doing while outdoors. However, some of the best sun hats on the market are those made from breathable fabrics like cotton or linen, with a wide brim that can protect your face, neck, and shoulders from the sun's harmful rays.Some people prefer floppy hats, which offer more coverage for the face and neck. Others prefer baseball-style caps or visors, which can be more comfortable in hot weather. Whatever type of hat you choose, make sure it is made of a light-colored fabric that will reflect heat and sunlight. Also, be sure to apply sunscreen to any exposed skin.If you plan on being active outdoors, look for a sun hat with an adjustable strap or other means of staying securely in place, as well as vents or mesh panels to help keep you cool. And finally, don't forget to choose a sun hat that compliments your personal style - after all, you'll be wearing it all summer long!What hat protects you from the sun?There are essentially two types of hats: those that protect your head from the sun, and those that keep you warm. This latter group can be subdivided further into hats that protect your ears and necks from the elements, as well as hats that protect your ears, neck, and head.Bucket hats fall into the latter category because they usually have a brim of 5–18 inches (but every bucket hat has its own measurements) to provide full-head protection.Straw hats can have spaces between the individual fibres, but they also provide comfort and fashion and allow air circulation. If buying a straw hat, look for one with a fabric liningSun hats are used primarily for protecting yourself from ultraviolet radiation. The most common type of sun hat is a floppy hat with a broad-brimmed straw hat, though other options include sombreros and cowboy hats.In terms of style, there is a sun hat available for everyone. If you’re looking for a hat you can wear while hiking (and we hope you are!), then you’ll need something like this SUVI Sahara outdoor hat.If you’re looking for something to wear at the beach or by the pool, then this Panama Hat will be perfect for you—it also has a great price tag!And if you don't consider yourself much of a "hat person," but want to keep your face protected from sun damage on your next vacation or trip to the park, then check out this go-to favorite Tactical Camo USA cap. The cap features the embroidered American Flag prominently displayed on the front over a loop material so you can place your own Velcro patches over them if you like.No matter what type of hat you choose, make sure it has a UPF (Ultraviolet Protection Factor) rating of 50 or higher to ensure that you're getting adequate protection from the sun's harmful rays. And don't forget to reapply sunscreen every two hours, even if you're wearing a hat!What are floppy hats?If you've ever been to the beach, you know that there are a few key things to remember when it comes to sun protection:Apply sunscreen with SPF (Sun Protection Factor) 30 or greater 30 minutes before going outside,Re-apply sunscreen every two hours while you're outside, andWear a big brim or a floppy hat.Floppy hats are not a new trend, but a classic staple of summer fashion. They have been worn for generations, and the appeal remains the same: they provide excellent sun protection. Their wide brims shield the neck and shoulders, while their materials block rays from all angles. Floppy hats are perfect for outdoor summer activities like picnics, hiking, or days at the beach.Floppy hats are wide-brimmed hats that provide excellent sun protection. They are often made from straw and have a large, floppy brim that can shade the face, neck, and shoulders. Many women find floppy hats to be stylish and flattering, and they are a popular choice for summertime activities like picnics and days at the beach.It's also important to note that floppy hats aren't just for women—men can find them in styles ranging from classic straw boater designs to snazzy newsboy caps. Regardless of whether you're shopping for a man or a woman, look for hats made from durable materials like straw or canvas that will withstand wear and tear.Also, be sure to choose a hat with a brim that is at least four inches wide for optimal sun protection. And finally, don't forget to pack your floppy hat in a suitcase or beach bag so it doesn't get crushed!What era are floppy hats from?We've all seen it—the woman who protects her face and neck from the sun with a wide-brimmed hat. It may be a fisherman's hat, or something more fashionable, but the point is that it's floppy. Floppy hats are those with a broad-brimmed hats that is prone to flopping over one's face, just like the name implies. But why are they called "floppy"?This term originated in the mid-1800s. The original hats had stiff brims that curved up towards the front, giving them a slightly bent appearance. The brim also lacked flexibility, so if you tried to bend it any further than its natural curve, it would simply flop right back into place.What type of hat is good for sun protection?So, what kind of hat is best for sun protection? There are a few different types of hats that can offer sun protection, but the best kind of hat for sun protection is a wide-brimmed hat. A broad-brimmed hats will protect your face, neck, and ears from the sun's harmful rays. It is important to choose a hat that is made from breathable material so that you do not get too hot while wearing it.You may also want to consider this SUVI Sahara outdoor hat with a neck flap for extra protection. With a UPF rating of 50+ and designed to compliment your style, this hat will keep the sun out of eye damage, allow you to see clearly, and stay comfortable. Put it on and get out there!However, some general guidelines to keep in mind when choosing a sun hat include choosing a hat with a wide brim that shades your face, neck, and ears; a hat made from breathable fabric that will help keep you cool; and a hat with a dark color, as darker colors absorb more heat than lighter colors.What colour sun hat is the best?When you head outside on a bright summer day, you don't want to get sunburned. The best way to prevent this is by covering your head with a hat. But which color of the hat is the most protective?Studies have been done which suggest that darker colors tend to be better at blocking UV rays than lighter colors. This is because dark colors absorb the radiation, whereas light colors reflect it back. UV rays can be dangerous for your health and make you more likely to develop skin cancer later in life. You can see sunlight and feel the heat (infrared radiation), but you can't see or feel UV radiation. It can damage your skin even on cool, cloudy days. Sunburn is a radiation burn to the skin.In one study published in 2011, researchers found that darker colors like blue and black provided better protection than lighter colors like white and pastels. They tested fabric samples of various shades and even sewed them into hats (which they made out of dye lots that were different shades of the same color). It turned out that they all provided similar protection against UVB rays, but the darkest ones did a better job at absorbing UVA rays.The Cancer Council in Australia has also published guidelines on sun protective clothing: dark blue, black, and dark red fabrics were rated highly, while white and pastel fabrics were lower down on the list. The reason for this is that dark fabrics have more color pigment in them—this means less light is reflected back and more is absorbed.A hat that offers full-face coverage can reduce your risk of getting skin cancer by up to 90%, and sunscreen alone has been shown to reduce the risk of squamous cell carcinoma by 50%. To be sure, hats aren't enough—you also have to cover up with sun protective clothing, polarized sunglasses, and apply sunscreen!But a hat is still an essential part of your wardrobe if you want to protect yourself from the sun's harmful rays. That's why it's important that your hats are not only fashionable but also functional.So, if you're looking for a sun hat that will offer the best protection against UV rays, go for a dark color. Black is always a good choice, but dark blue and dark red are also great options. And don't forget to apply sunscreen as well!Do sun hats work?Yes! Wearing a sun hat is one of the most effective ways to protect yourself from the harmful effects of UV radiation. Hats provide shade for your face, head, neck, and ears—areas that are particularly vulnerable to skin cancer. In addition, hats with wide brims can also protect your eyes from UV rays, which can lead to cataracts and other vision problems.Although wearing a sun hat during the summer months may seem like overkill, it's an extremely effective way to protect yourself from UV radiation. Our bodies' first line of defense against the sun is melanin—the pigment that gives skin its color. Melanin works by absorbing UV rays, and different skin tones have different levels of melanin, which determine how susceptible they are to UV damage. As our skin gets darker, it also becomes more resistant to sunburns.It may seem like it's impossible to avoid the sun, but there are plenty of ways to protect yourself from its harmful UV rays. Wearing a sun hat is one of the most effective ways to keep your skin safe from cancer and other problems. Long-sleeved shirts can also help protect your skin, as well as sunglasses if you're in an area with a lot of glare.Here's why:They cover areas that are most vulnerable to sun damage: your face, head, neck, and ears.Have you ever seen those lumps on someone's ear after they've spent a lot of time in the sun? That's basal cell carcinoma, one of many types of skin cancer that can be caused by UV radiation. Sun hats provide shade for these areas when you're outside.They block UV rays that lead to cataracts and other vision problems.Have you ever wondered why everyone in your family wears sunglasses when they're outdoors? It's because UV rays can cause cataracts and other vision problems. Sun hats with wide brims can also protect your eyes from these rays.They help prevent sunburns.Sunburns happen when your skin is exposed to too much UV radiation. They can cause pain, swelling, and redness, and in severe cases, they can lead to blistering and peeling. Wearing a sun hat can help prevent these painful burns by shading your face and neck.They can make you look good!Not only are sun hats functional, but they can also be stylish. Whether you're looking for a wide-brimmed hat to protect your face from the sun or a cute visor to keep the sweat out of your eyes, there's a sun hat that's perfect for you.For best protection, we recommend a combination of sun protection measures:Slip on some sun-protective clothing that covers as much skin as possible slop on a broad spectrum, water resistant SPF30+ (or higher) sunscreen.Put it on 20 minutes before you go outdoors and every two hours.Slap on a straw hat – broad brim or legionnaire style to protect your face, head, neck, and ears seek shade whenever possible, especially between 10 am and 3 pm avoid outdoor activities during the heat of the day if you have to be out in the sun, wear a long-sleeved shirt, long pants, socks and shoes made from tightly woven fabric.So, do sun hats work? Absolutely! Not only are they effective at protecting your skin and eyes from the harmful effects of UV radiation, but they can also be stylish and help keep you cool in the summer heat. So next time you head outdoors, don't forget to grab a sun hat to keep yourself safe from the sun's harmful rays.Where to buy the best sun hat?There are a few things to consider when purchasing a sun hat. The most important factor is the level of UV protection the hat offers. You'll also want to consider the material the hat is made from, as well as the style and fit.Here are a few of our favorite sun hats:1. The SUVI Sahara Outdoor UV Protection Hat is perfect for those who want serious sun protection. The wide brim offers excellent coverage, and the UPF 50+ rating ensures that you'll be protected from harmful UV rays.2. The Columbia Coolhead Ice™ Cachalot Hat is a great option for those who need a sun hat that can stand up to a lot of activity. The mesh panels provide ventilation, and the UPF 50+ rating offers excellent sun protection.3. The SUVI Darwin Boonie Hat (Unisex) is perfect for those who want a sun hat that looks good and performs well. The UPF 50+ rating provides excellent sun protection, and the adjustable drawcord ensures a custom fit and a quick-drying neck-flap.4. The Coolibar Women's Ariel Reversible Pool Hat UPF 50+ is a great choice for those who want a sun hat that's both stylish and functional. The UPF 50+ rating provides excellent sun protection, and the wide brim offers good coverage.5. The Wallaroo Logan Men's Sun Hat is a great choice for those who want a sun hat that's both stylish and functional. The UPF 50+ rating provides excellent sun protection, and the wide brim offers good coverage.Bonus: This Tactical Camo USA Cap is great for everyday use or for the outdoors. It's made from durable materials and is comfortable enough to wear all day long. It features the American Flag embroidered across the front, with a patch material so that you can swap out your own Velcro patches.ConclusionIt's important that you keep up this protection even after the summer months; hot days, fall and spring bring about their own unique dangers in the form of stronger winds and shorter days. Sun hats are especially important during these times because they'll keep you safe from damage even when conditions aren't ideal for other forms of protection.When you're out in the sun, you want to protect yourself from these harmful effects—one of the best ways to do this is by wearing a hat with a wide brim that shades your face, head, neck, and ears. This will help keep you safe from the sun's UV rays and the harmful effects they cause.So go ahead: get yourself a comfy new hat!
