When applied according to the product's instructions, sunscreens provide maximum protection from the sun's damaging ultraviolet rays. Always be sure to choose a SPF (sun protection factor) that offers the maximum protection for your skin type. But remember that no product will work if you fail to apply it every time you go outside. For around the clock skin protection, UPF sun protection clothing could be the answer. The maximum rating which blocks over 97.5% of the sun's UV radiation is UPF50+; make sure you get a certification tag with your sun protection clothing item.

The sun can reflect off many different surfaces including sand, snow and cement and UV rays are present even on cloudy days. With these facts in mind, the best way to provide maximum sun protection is to develop a habit of applying your sun protection sunscreen products whenever you go outside, reapplying them as often as necessary, ad wear sun protection clothing with UPF50+ UV rating.

Sun protection. More than skin deep

One thing you'll realize about most sun protection sunscreen products is that they're not formulated for all body parts. They're great at protecting the skin, but what about the eyes, lips and hair? The sun can cause serious damage to the eyes and has been associated with the development of cataracts.

The lips too are extremely delicate and they'll easily burn if not protected from the sun. Lips that are dry and chapped neither look good nor feel good. Applying a product containing zinc offers maximum sun protection. Lip balms, conditioners and lipsticks that have a SPF of at least 15 are also good choices.

The sun can damage hair, too. We sometimes don't realize this because we don't 'feel' the effects. But we can see the effects. Dry, dull, frizzy hair doesn't only result from excess chemical processing. Sun damages hair and harsh pool chemicals and salt only worsen the problem.

Other types of sun protection

Sun protection doesn't always come in a bottle. UV protective clothing, sun hats and sunglasses are all just as important in blocking the sun's damaging ultraviolet rays. So is seeking shade whenever possible. Here's a rundown on other types of sun protection.

Some clothing and swimsuits manufacturers now produce a protective clothing line with a UPF or ultraviolet protection factor. Designed for those who spend a lot of time outdoors such as surfers, sailors, golfers, hikers, fishers, and others, these clothes are stylish and functional. You'll find protective clothing for all members of the family, including infants. Even if you can't find or afford clothing with UPF, tightly woven fabrics and dark colors are effective at blocking out the sun's harmful rays. And dry clothing blocks out more UV rays than do wet. Of course, long sleeves and pants offer maximum sun protection, but who wants to wear that much clothing when out in the sun? make sure you ask for UPF50+ ratings when purchasing UV protective clothing.

Hats protect hair, eyes, face and the tips of ears. Wide brims offer the most protection and will actually help cool you off. Legionnaire caps (with long back flap) provide good sun protection for the back neck. Sunglasses are an absolute must when outdoors. When selecting a pair, make sure the label specifically states that the lenses offer UV protection otherwise they'll be useless. As a general rule, the bigger the lens, the more sun protection. Wrap-around styles offer the most protection because they block sun radiation that can hit the eyes from the sides. And they're trendy too!