Each year, thousands of people in the UK are diagnosed with skin cancer — a disease that’s largely preventable with the right sun protection. While sunscreen is a vital part of any sun safety routine, it’s not always enough on its own. That’s where high-quality sun-protective clothing and accessories come in — and nothing tops the list quite like a UPF 50+ sun hat.
At Sunday Afternoons, we believe you shouldn’t have to choose between fashion and function when it comes to your health. Here’s why wearing a sun hat with UPF 50+ protection is one of the smartest moves you can make for your skin — and how it could help reduce your risk of skin cancer.
Understanding the Risk: Skin Cancer in the UK
Despite the often cloudy weather, UV rays can still cause damage year-round. In fact, over 16,000 people in the UK are diagnosed with melanoma, the deadliest form of skin cancer, each year. Prolonged exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation is the leading cause — and the face, scalp, and neck are among the most vulnerable areas.
The good news? With consistent protection, skin cancer is one of the most preventable cancers.
What is UPF, and Why Does 50+ Matter?
UPF stands for Ultraviolet Protection Factor, and it measures how effectively a fabric blocks UV radiation. A UPF 50+ rating means that only 1/50th (or less than 2%) of the sun’s UV rays can penetrate the fabric — providing maximum protection for your skin.
Unlike SPF, which only measures protection from UVB rays, UPF-rated clothing guards against both UVA and UVB rays, offering broader coverage.
The Power of a UPF 50+ Sun Hat
Here’s how a UPF 50+ sun hat makes a real difference:
-
Shields the Most Exposed Areas: Your scalp, ears, face, and neck are often missed by sunscreen or rubbed off over time. A wide-brimmed hat provides consistent, reliable coverage.
-
Reduces Cumulative Damage: Daily wear of sun-protective accessories helps reduce the cumulative UV damage that leads to premature aging and skin cancer.
-
No Reapplication Needed: Unlike sunscreen, your hat won’t wear off or need reapplying throughout the day — making it a low-maintenance and effective solution.
Style Meets Safety
At Sunday Afternoons, we design hats that make sun safety effortless and stylish. Our UPF 50+ hats are lightweight, breathable, and built with performance fabrics that keep you cool and comfortable, whether you're hiking, gardening, traveling, or chasing your little ones around the park.
From packable travel hats to elegant wide-brimmed styles, our collection ensures that you stay protected without sacrificing personal style.
UPF 50+ Kids Clear Creek Boonie
Final Thoughts: Take Sun Protection Seriously — and Make It Look Good
Whether you're holidaying abroad or enjoying a sunny afternoon at home, protecting your skin should always be top priority. A UPF 50+ sun hat is a simple yet powerful tool in your skin cancer prevention toolkit.
Browse our full range of UPF 50+ sun hats here and take the first step towards safer, smarter sun protection — all year round.
