The hat is back and this time its better than ever! Combine sun protection and style to stay safe from the sun with these Physician Endorsed selections that keep you cool and comfortable. Add in some oh-so-in sunglasses for a look sure to fit into any lifestyle.

Sun Protection 101

When it comes to sun protection there are essentially two types; physical barriers and chemical. Examples of physical barriers include clothing, hats, sunglasses and other items that literally create a physical barrier between your skin and the radiation of the sun. The most common example of a chemical form of sun protection is sunscreen; sunscreen works by combining organic and inorganic ingredients so they are able to scatter radiation and/or dissipate it as heat.

Most people use a combination of both physical and chemical sun protection including hats, sunglasses, sunscreen and other forms of protection. Used regularly, sun protection helps reduce the appearance of wrinkles, fine lines and pigment irregularities that make skin appear older than it really is.

Who Needs Sun Protection?

Everyone needs sun protection including young children, men and persons who have already experienced sun related damage. Fair skinned individuals may be especially vulnerable to skin problems associated with sun exposure including burns, premature aging and discoloration; however, even those that tend to tan easily are still prone to sun damage over a prolonged period of time. Physical barriers such as hats and sunglasses are the first line of defense when it comes to protecting your skin against everything from skin cancer to wrinkles.

Benefits to Barriers

Hats, sunglasses and other physical barriers that help protect your skin against sun damage have many benefits including the following:

Convenient Its easy to toss a hat and sunglasses on for those quick trips across town or impromptu visits where you may not feel like finding the sunscreen. Keep them on hand for variable weather patterns or simply bring them along as an additional source of protection against rapidly changing climate. Hats are an effective way to keep children protected from the sun, especially with Sunday Afternoons Kids Fun Buck Hat a cute take anywhere hat designed specifically with kids in mind. Created with breathable sun fabric and UPF 50+ certified, simply toss in the car for those quick trips across town without the frustration of trying to keep sunscreen on them during those long play dates.

Cost Effective Quality combined with the therapeutic benefits of true sun protection make protective clothing of all types a budget friendly way to look great without breaking the bank. Hats, sunglasses and other protective clothing can be used year after year with the same great results but only require a one-time investment. There's never any worry about expiration dates nor the fuss and mess associated with trying to remind children (or husbands) about sun protection. Simply purchase a few different styles for every person in the family for instant sun protection that lasts years after year.

Fashionable Whether you are riding the waves on your favorite beach or simply strolling downtown at your favorite boutique, Physician Endorsed Sunglasses - City Chic Black/Gold sunglasses combined with a Physician Endorsed Diva - White hat is the perfect way to protect your skin without sacrificing fashion. In fact, take time to check out the complete line of fashion savvy protective clothing including Physician Endorsed hats and sunglasses that complement any wardrobe and are great for activities where sunscreen easily washes off, as well as a bit of extra protection when you cant afford to touch-up the make-up. Versatile, affordable and fashionable its a winning combination!

Shopping Matters

How to Pick the Perfect Hat for Your Lifestyle

If you are like most people, picking out a hat isnt something you have done recently. After all, hats were out of style for a while but now they are back with a vengeance, so use your head and learn how to pick the perfect hat by following these simple suggestions:

1. Hot Headed? Heat rises so make sure you keep your cool when out and about in the hot summer sun. Search for a hat is made from breathable fabric like the Physician Endorsed St Tropez - Ecru cotton hat or a well ventilated woven hat like Sunday Afternoons Men's Fairway hat.

2. On the Go. Always keep a spare hat in the car or on hand for those unexpected events. The Physician Endorsed Metropolitan - White/Green white cotton pique hat with green embroidered flowers and matching travel bag is the perfect companion to take along when traveling or just leave in the car for occasional any-time use.

3. Youve got "The Look." Shopping by fashion means more than just a color scheme; search for the latest trends like big brims. Yes, big brims are back and better than ever thanks to adjustable and reversible options that look as great as they wear. Sophistication and style has always been associated with big brim hats and the Belle, Diva or Ginger selections by Physician Endorsed make a strong statement whether shopping or taking an afternoon tea. Spice things up with reversible canvas sun hats that instantly transform into two completely unique looks for the price of one.

How to Select Awesome Sunglasses

There is more to selecting awesome sunglasses than what meets the eye. In fact, purchasing sunglasses is more than merely a fashion statement; quality sunglasses are meant to provide very real protection for eyes and sensitive skin. Unfortunately, price isnt always an indicator of quality so it is a good idea to educate yourself about the basics of sunglasses prior to purchase.

1. Real Protection. When it comes to sunglasses insist upon 100 percent protection from both UVA and UVB. Dont assume both are included unless the label specifically states that fact. UV or Ultraviolet radiation can damage eyes and is associated with increased risk of cataracts as well as other forms of eye disease. The sunglasses should be rated UVA 400 the maximum rating from both UVA and UVB sun protection available on the market.

2. Heres Looking at You. The delicate skin surrounding your eyes is especially sensitive to sun damage so search for wrap-around sunglasses like the Physician Endorsed Sunglasses - Santorini Black or Physician Endorsed Sunglasses - Animal Attraction. Both are rated UVA 400 for maximum protection with wrap around style that provides maximum protection. For those unable to wear a wrap around style, search for oversized styles like the Physician Endorsed Sunglasses - Socialite Black combined with a wide brimmed hat for a look straight off the big screen.

3. Color & Quality. An optical quality lens is really a must, especially for those exposed to high UV levels or dealing with previously sun damaged skin. Remember, insist upon UVA 400 for 100 percent protection against ultraviolet radiation. Inferior products may contain as little as 40 percent protection while CR-392 plastic still only absorbs 88 percent of UV radiation. Optical quality sunglasses should also be ground to minimize distortion in the lens itself. Remember, the color of the lens is not an indication of how much protection is provided! In fact, color itself is personal preference; even light colored sunglasses can provide 100 percent protection so select the color you find more comfortable.

Many people find neutral density gray a nice combination; it darkens without changing the colors of the surrounding environment. Another popular alternative is some type of tint or combination color that provides a warm brown or even a light amber hue. Whatever color choice you enjoy is perfectly acceptable as long as the lens provides complete protection and is built to the highest standards of quality.

Off the Top of Your Head

A few quick reminders and tips

Even though you are using a hat, its still important to safeguard your eyesight with quality sunglasses. Ultraviolet radiation can damage vision and increase the risk of macular degeneration, cataracts or even UV burns associated with snow blindness.

Dont be misled by inferior but darker sunglasses. Color does not indicate the level of protection and may actually harm eyes instead! Extra dark sunglasses made from inferior materials can allow pupils to open larger than normal to allow in more light and more damaging ultraviolet radiation without providing adequate protection. Insist upon optical quality sunglasses with 100 percent protection.

Men and children need sun protection too. While your main motivation for using a hat and sunglasses may be to maintain that beautiful complexion, sun damage does true harm to everyone. From cataracts to skin cancer, UV radiation is no laughing matter. Make sure your loved ones are protected by investing in comfortable hats they will like to wear and full protection sunglasses.

Form, fashion and function are all important. You and your loved ones are more likely to wear hats and sunglasses that are as fashionable as they are functional. Lets face it, you cant have just one. Your mood is as unique as your outfit, so take the time to invest in a few fun yet versatile selections of hat and sunglass combinations for every occasion. Its an easy way to stay safe and look great without breaking the bank.

Shannon Perez
DERMAdoctor Staff Writer

(Any topic discussed in this article is not intended as medical advice. If you have a medical concern, please check with your doctor.)

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