Sun Protection Beyond Sunscreen: Make UPF 50+ Clothing and Sun Hats Your First Line of Defence

Most people reach for sunscreen first. It is important, but it should not be your only strategy. In real-world use, sunscreen is not as reliable as UPF 50+ clothing and broad-brim sun hats because it is easy to under-apply, miss spots, or forget to reapply after sweat, swim, or time. Clothing and hats, by contrast, deliver set-and-forget protection for the areas they cover.

Why sun protective clothing matters
Not all fabric blocks UV well. Light coloured, loosely woven, or wet garments can let a surprising amount of radiation through. UPF rated apparel is engineered and tested to resist UV transmission. UPF 50+, a top tier rating under major standards, means the fabric allows less than 2% of UV to pass, effectively reducing exposure by 98% on covered skin. That makes UPF apparel the most consistent daily defence for anyone who spends time outdoors or has photosensitive skin. It’s protection you can rely on, even when life gets busy.

Sunscreen vs clothing: reliability in practice
Sunscreen absolutely has a role. Use it generously on skin that UPF 50+ clothing and hats cannot cover, but build your routine from garments and shade first, then apply SPF as the backup.

• User error: Sunscreen protection hinges on applying the right amount (most people use a fraction of what is needed) and covering every exposed area, every time.
• Time decay: Even high SPF formulas lose effectiveness with sweat, water, towel drying, and natural wear, requiring frequent reapplication.
• Set and forget coverage: UPF 50+ clothing and hats protect at full strength the moment you put them on, with no reapplication and far less room for error.

The benefits of Solbari UPF 50+ clothing

• Consistent protection: Continuous, high level coverage where the fabric sits, with no missed spots.
• No mess, no reapply: Protection does not wash or sweat off during normal wear.
• Sensitive skin friendly: A great option if you react to certain SPF ingredients or prefer to minimise topical products.
• Wearable for every day: From lightweight shirts and dresses to UPF 50+ swimwear and activewear, modern UPF pieces are breathable, soft, and travel-ready.

Do not forget the hat: go broad brim
Your face, ears, and neck get some of the heaviest UV exposure. A broad-brim hat (≥7.5 cm / 3 inches all around) shades these high-risk areas far better than a cap or visor. Look for UPF 50+ sun hats with lightweight, breathable materials, moisture-wicking headbands, and adjustable chin straps. Packable styles slip easily into a bag for hiking, travel, gardening, or everyday errands. Choose from wide brim silhouettes for maximum coverage along with women’s, men’s, and travel focused designs.

Sunglasses and smart accessories
UV exposure also affects eye health. Choose 100% UV blocking sunglasses, ideally with wraparound coverage to limit peripheral light. Round out your setup with UPF arm sleeves, gloves, and sun umbrellas (parasols), especially useful for cycling, driving, long walks, or when shade is hard to find. Do not forget sun safe options for kids, who often spend long hours outdoors. 

How to apply sunscreen for uncovered skin
When clothing and a hat cannot cover everything, apply a broad-spectrum SPF 50+ to exposed areas. Use ample amounts, reapply every two hours, and sooner after swimming, sweating, or towelling off. Think of sunscreen as the finishing layer, not the foundation, because in day-to-day life, it is simply less reliable than UPF 50+ clothing and a broad-brimmed hat.

Why choose Solbari
Solbari is Australia’s leading sun protection specialist, designing UPF 50+ clothing, hats, and accessories that meet stringent global standards. Founded in Melbourne, Solbari combines innovative fabric technology with comfortable, stylish silhouettes you will actually want to wear, on the beach, in the garden, on the trail, or around town. We believe everyone deserves to feel confident and comfortable in the sun.

Sunscreen matters, but for dependable, all-day defence, start with UPF 50+ clothing and a broad-brim sun hat; add UV-blocking sunglasses; seek shade; and then use SPF on what is left exposed. That layered approach lets you enjoy the outdoors with confidence.

You can find out more about Solbari's sun protective range by clicking the links below:
Women's Best Sellers UPF 50+
Men's Best Sellers UPF 50+
Sun Hats UPF 50+
Accessories UPF 50+