Sun protection - Hats

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Why hats? A well designed hat can substantially reduce the amount of ultraviolet (UV) radiation reaching the face, neck, ears and head. Common sites of skin damage and skin cancer are the neck, ears, temples, lips, face and nose. These areas are constantly exposed to the elements and therefore, generally receive more UVR than other body parts.

Wearing a hat is one strategy recommended by The Cancer Council Tasmania to protect the face, back of the neck and ears.

Always use other sun protection measures, such as shade, sunscreen and sunglasses to protect your face, as hats will not block out all UV rays.

Recommended hats
Hats should shade the face, neck, ears and head.

Broad-brimmed hat

Legionnaire hat

Bucket hat

These styles provide excellent protection from the sun:
broad-brimmed hats with a brim of at least 7.5cm
legionnaire-style hats
bucket or surfie style hats with a brim of at least 6cm (for primary school children and older) or 5cm (for pre-school children) should have a deep crown and sit low on the head

Baseball caps are not recommended as they do not adequately shade the cheeks, ears or neck.

Choosing a hat
When buying sun-protective hats, look for:
a style that shades the face, neck and ears
closely woven weave material. If you can see through the hat material, the UV rays will also get through
hats that do not obscure vision or pose a safety concern
good ventilation, especially if the hat is used while exercising

For more information contact the Cancer Council Helpline 13 11 20