With summer rolling in, a UV umbrella can offer much-needed protection against the sun.
Exposure to solar UV radiation increases the likelihood of sunburnt skin, premature ageing of the skin and skin cancer.
The lifetime risk of being diagnosed with melanoma is believed to have tripled since 1982, according to the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare.
While many of us reach for sunscreen and a hat when it heats up, UV umbrellas are a less common sight. Given our climes, maybe we should embrace them with enthusiasm.
Please note, while beach umbrellas and outdoor umbrellas with UV protection are great choices, this article focuses on handheld UV umbrellas.
Understanding UV umbrella protection
When it comes to materials, the government utilises a testing system that awards a UPF rating, denoting the Ultraviolet Protection Factor.
Ideally, you want a UV umbrella made with material rated UPF50 or UPF50+, which the Australian Radiation Protection and Nuclear Safety Agency (ARPANSA) qualifies as excellent protection.
Finding the best UV umbrella for yourself
So, you’ve seen a few ranges of UV umbrellas that offer UPF50+ protection. How to choose the right one? The following questions may help:
- How is your grip?
Umbrella designs can include a simple grip attachment at the end, or a hooked handle. Choose the comfortable option.
- Are your arms strong?
If your UV umbrella feels heavy after a few minutes, you’ll probably stop using it. Make sure the design isn’t burdensome.
- Do you walk alone, or with a companion?
A bigger umbrella that can cover two people could be a more practical decision.
- Will you be moving through crowds?
If so, a style less likely to take out someone’s eye might be wiser.
- Does it need to be portable?
Will you be carrying it in your bag? If so, a compact could be your best bet.
- Do you have a style preference?
Some people prefer a UV umbrella closer to a parasol design, others like a curved option that offers lower coverage.
Differing designs
Structurally, does your UV umbrella seem less sturdy than your wet weather umbrella? Rather than a design flaw, this lightness may be on purpose.
Certain UV umbrellas are created to be lightweight and easy to carry for longer periods – and since you won’t be caught in a thunderstorm, less structural strength is required.
Designed primarily to block ultraviolet radiation rather than rain, some UV umbrellas have less intensive infrastructure.
Multi-function umbrellas
Umbrellas with sun protection are usually made from a thicker material than rainy day umbrellas, or the umbrella material is specially treated to increase UV protection.
Brands may prefer to combine wet weather and UV umbrella protection. The choice is entirely up to you. There are arguments for and against both approaches.
Achieving UV protection in summer, is the main goal.
Helpful, but not magic
If you’ve had skin cancer on your scalp, face, neck, hands, upper back or décolletage and chest, a UV umbrella in summer can introduce additional protection.
But keep in mind, UV rays are still reflected from the ground, so while you’re reducing exposure, your umbrella doesn’t replace the need for other protections like sunscreen.
For example, you should still apply an SPF50 or SPF50+ sunscreen to your skin – and remember, that includes your hands.
UV umbrellas also have the added benefit of cooling you down a little, as you’re not getting the heat of the sun’s rays directly on your body.
Purchasing a UV umbrella
The Cancer Council offers umbrellas with UPF50+ protection in a variety of designs.
A number of Australian retailers also rock UV umbrellas. Just make sure you verify the protection levels, confirm warranty, and perhaps browse online reviews prior to purchase.
Some prefer well-known UV brands from other countries like America or Japan.
Make sure you understand shipping rate, expected arrival date, and currency exchange before confirming an order.
If prone to forgetting your umbrella in winter, the same is likely to happen in summer. A spare one for the car or caravan might be a good idea.
Do you have a UV umbrella? What has been your experience? Let us know in the comments section below.
Also read: How to pick sunglasses that will protect your eyes
