Face sunscreen? Check. Travel-size tube for on-the-go touch ups? Check. SPF for below the neck? Check, check, and check. Go ahead and pat yourself on the back, but know that sun safety doesn’t stop there. Lotions and potions are one thing, but going one step further with UV-protective clothing and accessories will take you from novice to expert in terms of safe sun. “UPF (ultraviolet protection factor) clothing is specially designed to provide an extra layer of protection against the sun,” Melissa Kanchanapoomi Levin, MD, board-certified dermatologist and founder of Entière Dermatology, tells Refinery29. “It is woven tightly and often made from fabrics that offer a high UPF rating, such as polyester, nylon, and certain types of cotton.” Whereas sunscreens have an SPF rating, a number corresponding to the length of time where your skin is protected from UV rays, clothing has a UPF rating, which refers to the amount of UV exposure that can penetrate fabric and affect your skin.
Tops, trousers, swimsuits, cover-ups — you can find them all in UV-protective form. Dr. Levin adds that sun protection gear shouldn’t stop at your fit: UPF clothing is a smart investment, but protecting your eyes from UV radiation is just as important. “The delicate skin around the eyes is highly susceptible to sun damage, and long-term exposure to UV rays can lead to cataracts, macular degeneration, and other eye conditions,” she explains. Her advice? “Look for sunglasses with 100% UV protection and a wrap-around design to shield the eyes from the sides as well.” Pro tip: Scope out your frames’ tech specs (look for a label that indicates 100% broad-spectrum UVA and UVB protection) before splurging, and keep in mind that the “you get what you pay for” rule of thumb usually holds true in this scenario (as in, a £5 bargain pair might not cut it).
Ahead, we asked dermatologists and R29 editors to share the sun-protective gear they’ll be keeping in heavy rotation this summer and beyond. And remember, UV damage is cumulative — in other words, it’s never too late to begin a good habit. “Sun protection is a comprehensive approach that combines multiple strategies to safeguard your skin,” Dr. Levin says. “While sunscreen is vital, incorporating these additional measures will help minimise your risk of sunburns, premature ageing, and skin cancer.”
At Refinery29, we’re here to help you navigate this overwhelming world of stuff. All of our market picks are independently selected and curated by the editorial team. All product details reflect the price and availability at the time of publication. If you buy or click on something we link to on our site, Refinery29 may earn commission.
Columbia Women’s Freezer Maxi Dress
“I bought this in a size down for more of a snug fit and it’s not too dissimilar to my Skims dress! It’s 89% polyester, and provides UPF 50 protection, but it isn’t at all heavy. It feels like a second skin and the thicker straps mean I don’t have to worry about wearing a certain style of bra. You could rock it on its own, or over a swimsuit or bikini.” — Jacqueline Kilikita, acting beauty director.
Columbia Women’s Freezer Maxi Dress, $, available at Amazon
Vuori Dune Crop
“UPF clothing offers a convenient and reliable way to protect the skin from harmful UV radiation, and it works even when wet,” says Dr. Levin, who name-checks Vuori’s comfortable yet functional performance wear as one of her go-tos.
Vuori Dune Crop, $, available at Vuori
Seea Rashguard Palomar Crop Top
“If you have tattoos, invest in a crop top like this one to protect them from the sun, which can result in fading. The stretchy fabric (UPF 30 to 50) means it can be worn alone or on top of a swimsuit or bikini top.” – JK
Seea Palomar Crop Top Rashguard, $, available at Free People
Ray Ban Kiliane Bio Based Polarised Sunglasses
“Polarised lenses block 100% of UVA rays (responsible for premature ageing and skin cancer) and UVB (associated with sunburn), as well as the sun’s glare, but I’ve struggled to find a pair that look good. Until now, that is. I love the modern shape and auburn tinge on these Ray Ban frames, and they’re just as cool in black.” — JK
RAY BAN Kiliane Bio-Based, $, available at Ray Ban
Coolibar Medley Zip-Up Swim Bra UPF 50+
Another of Dr. Levin’s favourites is Coolibar’s range of UPF swimwear. Yes, that’s right: Even the right swimsuit can help protect your skin. “However, it’s important to note that UPF clothing should be used in conjunction with other sun protection methods, including sunscreen, for optimal results,” she adds.
Coolibar Women’s Medley Zip-Up Swim Bra UPF 50+, $, available at Coolibar
Stelle Women’s UPF 50+ Sun Protection Hoodie Jacket
“Even when I’m at the beach, I try to soak up the sun in moderation. (Sorry, Sheryl Crow.) I’m never without a hat or sunnies and, as of a few months ago, added a rash guard to my safe-sun essentials. My absolute favourite style has since sold out, but I found a near-identical match that features similar lightweight fabric and a full-zip hoodie style that gives surfer girl in such a cool way. It’s not a substitute for sunscreen, but I feel safer knowing that the fabric alone has a UPF of 50.” — Karina Hoshikawa, Senior Writer
MAGCOMSEN Women’s Long Sleeve Sports Hoodies UPF 50+, $, available at Amazon
KINONA In Play UPF 50+ Golf Dress
“If you like to play sports in the sun, consider this mini dress (it has pockets)! Not only does the stretchy material equal maximum comfort, it also absorbs sweat and boasts antimicrobial properties to prevent bacteria growth on sweaty summer days.” — JK
Kinona In Play UPF 50+ Golf Dress, $, available at Nordstom
Princess Polly Summer Salty Terry Bucket Hat
“First comes fresh summer braids, second comes scalp sunburn. I’m not sure if any other Black people can relate, but last summer I showed up to Mexico with some swanky Fulani braids and left with a red, flaky head. Now, I make sure to pop on a hat until my scalp has a fighting chance against those tough UV rays (with the help of sunscreen, of course). I love Princess Polly’s bucket hats because they fit my big head and look good with most of my wardrobe.” — Alexandra Polk, Affiliate Lifestyle Writer
Princess Polly Summer Salt Terry Bucket Hat, $, available at Princess Polly
Free People Shady Character Packable Wide Brim Hat
“I believe that everyone can benefit from having a wide brim hat in their rotation. They’re cute, fun, and they protect from the sun. Why not be the main character when you’re strolling through Central Park, leaving everyone asking: Why is her sun hat so large? What secrets is she hiding? I love the Tinsley Wide Brim or the Felix Bucket hats from Janessa Leoné for a modern, high-end take on the floppy hat, but if you’re looking for something more affordable, this style from Free People is perfect.” — Becca Sax, Affiliate Coordinator
Free People Shady Character Packable Wide Brim Hat, $, available at Free People
Women’s UPF 50 UV Protection Shirt
“I’m really into oversized shirts lately, whether half-tucked into jeans or thrown over a tank top. This is made from polyester and provides UPF 50 UV protection. It’s available in multiple colours like khaki and blue, but I love this off-white version best. It’ll look great with denim shorts and tan leather sandals.” — JK
Little Donkey Andy Little Donkey Andy Women’s UPF 50 UV Protection Shirt, $, available at Amazon
Le Specs Air Heart Sunglasses
“Sunglasses are an easy win for staying safe in the sun. While it’s tempting to cop cheap pairs at a big-box store, the truth is that you get what you pay for in this case, and it’s always important to make sure your eyewear has some degree of anti-UV coating. My latest fancy pair are the Le Specs Air Heart in this mushroom-y beige hue, and I love them dearly — not only do they make me feel like the bougiest version of myself, but they have 100% UV protection, as well as an oversized surface area to protect my peepers. I love an al fresco brunch as much as the next gal, so it gives me peace of mind to know that my eyeballs aren’t being fried by the sun when I’m out and about. (And yes, ocular melanoma is real. Google it at your own risk!)” — KH
Le Specs Air Heart Sunglasses, $, available at Revolve
Browns Peony Weekend Sun Striped Bikini Top
“I like this bikini top so much, I wouldn’t just wear it by the pool or at the beach. The stretchy fabric features built-in UV protection and the short sleeves will cover up my very sensitive shoulders, which are always the first to feel the effects of the sun when I’m somewhere hot.” — JK
Peony Brown Weekend Sun Striped Bikini Top, $, available at Browns
Sun Straw Hat Wide Brim UPF 50
“This summer, I want to be a floppy hat person. I can just imagine wearing this very chic number (it features UV UPF 50+ protection, by the way) with an oversized shirt, denim shorts and tortoiseshell shades. Strawberry daiquiri in hand, of course.” — JK
FURTALK Womens Sun Straw Hat Wide Brim UPF 50 Summer Hat, $, available at Amazon
Eric Javits Champ Visor
“This is proof that visors can be chic. I try to top up the sunscreen on my face every couple hours, but there’s no such thing as too much protection — and this provides UPF 50+. Not only is it adjustable, it’s also washable. I’m really into the straw brim.” — JK
Eric Javits Champ Visor, $, available at Bloomingdale’s
Lands’ End High Neck UPF 50 Sun Protection Tankini Swimsuit Top
“If you hold your garment up to the sun and light penetrates or you can see through it, then it is unlikely to provide good sun protection,” explains Joshua Zeichner, MD, Associate Professor of Dermatology and the Director of Cosmetic & Clinical Research in Dermatology at Mount Sinai Hospital in New York. “Lands’ End has a great selection of sun-protective clothing. That’s where I usually make purchases for my family.” Our pick? This sporty high-neck swim tank, which is ideal for anyone looking for modest beach attire — not to mention a win for keeping your torso protected.
Land’s End Chlorine Resistant High Neck UPF 50 Tankini Top, $, available at Land’s End
Solbari Bondi Bucket Hat UPF50+
The ‘90s kid in me welcomes the return of the bucket hat, and this one has been tested and rated UPF 50 by Australian standards. According to Solbari, it’s equivalent to wearing SPF 50 sunscreen (though that doesn’t mean you can skimp on how much you apply on your skin). — JK
Solbari Bondi Bucket Hat UPF50+, $, available at Solbari
BesserBay Women UPF 50+ Half Zip Short Sleeve Rash Guard Shirt
“This is actually a swimming top but I can totally imagine wearing it zipped up with leggings while working out outdoors or even tucked into high-waisted denim shorts. It has UPF 50+ protection, as it’s made from 84% polyester and 16% elastane.” — JK
BesserBay Women Surf Shirt Short Sleeve Rash Guard, $, available at Amazon
L.L. Bean Adults’ Sunsmart 5 Panel Cap
“I’ll be holidaying in Sicily this summer, so I’m in the market for a new hat to protect my scalp from the intense sun. When I researched baseball caps with UPF protection, I didn’t find too many legit options, but this L.L. Bean UPF 50+ hat looks promising. It blocks over 97% of the sun’s UV rays, and comes in three summery colours that I’d be more than happy to rock this season.” — Victoria Montalti, Associate Affiliate Writer
L.L. Bean Adults’ Sunsmart 5 Panel Cap, $, available at L.L. Bean
Athleta Playa Linen Shirt
“You cannot get me out of my Athleta white linen shirt in the summer. I went into a deep dive last year looking for the best linen cover-ups to keep me cool and protected, and this find won out. It’s a bit heavier and more structured than your regular linen top, but that’s what I was in the market for. It can easily go from the beach to the office, from happy hour cocktails to brunch with your relatives, and it looks great with jean cutoffs or styled over a silk dress during the super warm, sweaty days.” — Clare Palo, Senior Strategist, Audience Development
Athleta Playa Linen Shirt, $, available at Athleta
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