The Best Way to Protect Yourself from the Sun

Getting adequate time in the sun is essential for one's health and wellbeing, which is one of the many reasons that those of us that live in Florida are grateful to call the Sunshine State home. However, too much sun exposure can be an issue, hence we have looked into the best ways to protect yourself from the sun.

We found a clear winner. 

Vitamin D, a vital nutrient, is synthesized through sun exposure and is sometimes known as the "sunshine vitamin." Likewise, Circadian rhythms govern the 24-hour sleep-wake cycle and are regulated by exposure to natural light. Even one's state of mental health is related to spending time outdoors in the sun. In addition to the numerous physical benefits of sunshine, it is just plain pleasant to bask in the warm glow of a sunny day.

We must temper all of this sun worship with a reminder that while sunshine can be beneficial, it may also be harmful if precautions are not taken. UV rays from the sun are the main culprit behind sunburns, premature aging of the skin, and, most alarmingly, skin cancer.

Thankfully, there are effective ways to protect yourself from the sun's negative effects, but the best way, according to the Skin Cancer Foundation, is with sun-protective clothing. Here at Anthony's, we carry a wide range of UPF50+ clothing, including tops, dresses, skorts, and even swimwear, to help keep you safe in the sun!

UPF, or Ultraviolet Protection Factor, is a rating system for clothing similar to sunblock's SPF rating system. It measures what percentage of UV rays are blocked by the fabric of the clothing. While most clothing has some degree of sun protection, specially UPF-rated fabrics, offer greater protection.

Unlike chemical sunscreens, which are only effective at blocking UVB rays, clothing for sun protection blocks UVA and UVB rays, both of which can have harmful effects on the body. In fact, UPF50+ clothing blocks over 98% of the sun's UV rays from reaching your skin!

Here are a few of our favorite, UPF50+ rated fashions:

Pascha Paisley UPF50+ Sun Shirt by IBKUL

IBKUL sun shirts are a customer favorite consistently praised for their comfort, wearability, and variety of eye-catching solids and prints. This paisley top is decked out in a lush array of pink hues, though it offers much more than just a pretty pattern. To keep you cool in the heat, it has patented IceFil technology and mesh sleeve inserts. The fabric is also moisture-wicking and anti-microbial, as well as being rated UPF50+, of course!

Jelly Fish UPF50+ Travel Dress by Anthony's Resort Wear

This travel dress features a unique print of pastel jellyfish swimming through an underwater seascape. In addition to UPF50+ sun protection, all of Anthony's Resort Wear travel dresses are easy to care for, easy to wear, and wrinkle-resistant. Even if you are unable to travel to an exotic location at the moment, this dress is a great choice for adventures close to home.

Cabana Stripe UPF50+ Shift Dress by Cabana Life

Here's another great dress with sun protection, this time by Cabana Life, a brand specializing in UPF50+ resort wear. Founded by a skin cancer survivor who noticed the lack of fashionable sun protective clothing, Cabana Life was created to help women stay safe in the sun while looking great. The navy striped print on this dress is truly classic, with the turquoise on the front snap pocket adding just a splash of color. Plus, who doesn't love pockets on a dress?

Black V-Neck Sarong Swimsuit by Roxanne

Did you know that we carry swimwear with sun protection? We certainly do! Roxanne's black sarong-style swimsuit is constructed of the brand's signature Chloratex fabric, which is chlorine-resistant and has a UPF50+ rating. Plus, the classic silhouette and knotted sarong detail have a touch of old Hollywood glamour that you'll adore.

Parisa Straight Skort by IBKUL

Another wardrobe staple from IBKUL is the UPF50+ skorts- that is, skirts with built-in shorts! They are perfect for playing sports, walking on the beach, or just everyday wear. This skort showcases the monotone Parisa design, which is evocative of an abstract painting with energetic brushstrokes. Another great feature of this skort is that it has 5 pockets which are perfect for toting your essentials when you're on the go.

Kona Coast SolCool High-Performance Shirt by San Soleil

San Soleil is renowned for its golf-friendly sun shirts, which all have moisture-wicking and quick-drying UPF50+ fabric. This top has mesh sleeve inserts for even more cooling properties, and the Hawaiian-influenced design will remind you of a lovely island breeze. Plus, the charming Swarovski crystal-embellished zipper pull adds extra sophistication.

Now that we've told you about the best way to stay safe in the sun, we want to hear from you about your favorite outdoor activities! What do you love to do in the sunshine?

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