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NBC News
3 days ago
- Health
- NBC News
Should you be wearing a UPF Sun hat? Here's why dermatologists say yes
People often underestimate the importance of a hat when spending time outdoors. Yes, hats do a great job of keeping sunlight out of your eyes and making it easier to see, but some of them can also help protect your skin, similar to sunscreen. This is why dermatologists recommend wearing clothing with Ultraviolet Protection Factor (UPF). 'Topical SPF is a great tool, but it also isn't perfect. Chemical sunscreens must be fully absorbed to work, about 30 minutes after application,' says board-certified dermatologist Dr. Dendy Engelman. 'For physical [mineral] sunscreen, if you do not have consistent application or an area rubs off, then you are not adequately protected.' UPF clothing, including hats, is the first line of defense against ultraviolet (UV) radiation, especially for those with sensitive skin. But what exactly is UPF? We consulted experts to understand how UPF works and used their guidance to compile the best UPF hats to shop for. What is the UPF rating? 'UPF stands for Ultraviolet Protection Factor. It shows how well a fabric protects you from UV rays,' according to Dr. Mohiba Tareen, a board-certified dermatologist at Tareen Dermatology. 'These are the rays that can cause skin aging (UVA) and burning (UVB). A UPF rating tells you how much UV radiation can get through the fabric.' As an example, if a hat has a UPF 50 rating, that means that 1/50th (2%) of UV rays pass through, so it blocks 98%.Here's a quick breakdown to determine how protective UPF ratings are: How we picked the best UPF hats When shopping for a UPF sun-protective hat, our experts stress the importance of keeping the following key factors in mind: UPF rating: Although the Skin Cancer Foundation allows a minimum of UPF 30, the most optimal level of protection is 50+, says Tareen. A UPF rating of 30 means the fabric allows 1/30th, or about 3%, of UV radiation to pass through. A garment rated UPF 50 permits only 1/50th, or about 2% of UV transmission. Any fabric that permits less than 2% is labeled UPF 50+. Weave density: The denser the fabric, the better it blocks the rays. For a quick visual check, Dr. Tareen recommends holding the hat up to the sunlight to gauge its transparency. Color: 'The more intense the hue, the better the protection,' according to the Skin Cancer Foundation. Dark or bright colors, including red, black and navy blue, absorb more UV rays than lighter colors, like whites and pastels. Material: Different types of material matter as well, according to our experts. For instance, unbleached cotton, rayon, flax and hemp all consist of natural fibers that absorb UV rays, while shiny polyester, nylon or lightweight satin silks deflect the rays and are considered more protective. In addition, these latter materials are quick-drying, which is another plus, as a study conducted by the National Center for Biotechnology Information found that UV protection appears to be less effective when the material is wet. Coverage: The best sun-protective hats should have a minimum 3-inch brim around the circumference or a minimum 3-inch bill with a permanently attached drape to cover the neck and ears, according to the Skin Cancer Foundation. For baby and toddler hats, the foundation recommends a 2½-inch brim. The best UPF hats to shop in 2025 Below, we rounded up a list of the best UPF hats for men, women, kids and babies that meet the experts' criteria. All provide optimum coverage, have a UPF rating of 50 or more and have the Skin Cancer Foundation's Seal of Recommendation. Many of them also have at least a 4-star average rating from 500 reviews or more on Amazon or at least 100 reviews at a retailer. This unisex wide-brimmed safari hat has UPF 50+ protection to block out 98% of the sun's rays, according to the brand. It has breathable mesh to keep you sweat-free and also includes an adjustable chin strap to keep it in place during windy days. This option also has a 4.5-star average rating from 27,768 reviews on Amazon. This brimmed fishing hat is made from a fast-drying, textured nylon that keeps you cool by pulling moisture to the fabric's surface to keep sweat at bay, according to the brand. It has an adjustable chin strap and toggle for a secure fit during windy days on the water, along with vented sides for increased breathability. The hat is one size fits all, and comes in 32 different colors. Best UPF hat for women This stylish braided straw fedora has UPF 50+ protection, along with a removable drawstring and an adjustable built-in strap to ensure the right fit. Coolibar Etta Shapeable Sun Catcher Hat $49.50 $55.00 Amazon Now 10% off $55.00 Coolibar Coolibar boasts unanimous approval from our experts, and the brand is 'respected in gear quality and longevity, so it's a very safe purchase and one that should invoke confidence in the buyer,' says Minars. With UPF 50+ protection in a fabric that's both breathable as well as shapeable, this adjustable hat is a top pick. Tareen loves this high-end, stylish lightweight option that has the look of a fashionable straw hat without compromising the protection of UPF. Not only does this model come in seven different color options but it's also designed to guard skin from 95% of UVA and UVB rays, according to the brand. Best UPF hat with neck protection This protective sun hat from Sunday Afternoons, which has a 4.6-star average rating from 1,789 reviews at Amazon, has a brim made with foam to help maintain its shape and prevent it from flying away in the wind. The underside of the hat has a dark hue to help absorb reflective light and prevent glare, according to the brand. The inside also has a sweatband and the back of it is extra long to help protect your neck. Best baseball-style UPF hat If you prefer the look of a baseball cap but still want the protection of a UPF hat, this option, which has a 4.4-star average rating from 14,400 reviews on Amazon, is a good choice. It has an adjustable strap and absorbs water and sweat to maintain a cool temperature for up to 2 hours, according to the brand. It's made of a breathable material, ideal for athletic activity and is machine washable. Best fedora-style UPF hat Whether you're out golfing or spending time at the beach, this stylish UPF 50+ hat will help keep you protected from the sun. Recommended for when you want to travel light, according to the brand, the Coolibar Travel Fedora has an interior moisture-wicking sweatband and mesh grommets for increased airflow. It also has a 4.2-star average rating from 310 reviews at Coolibar. Another expert favorite, this UPF 50+ hat lets you stay protected during a day on the water. With a 4.4-star average rating from 389 reviews at Coolibar, this hat provides all-around protection, including around the ears. The convertible style allows you to add extra neck coverage when you want while a covered mesh panel and sweatband help keep you cool. Best mesh UPF hat This versatile, adventure-ready hat has a 4.4-star average rating from 4,233 reviews on Amazon. It's water-resistant, breathable, UPF 50+ and adjustable, according to the brand. With a wide brim, interior sweatband and flap to protect your head, neck and ears, this foldable hat is a solid choice for keeping you covered in the sun this summer and beyond. Best UPF hat for kids This full-coverage sports hat has a 4.6-star average rating from 229 reviews at Amazon and features an attached neck drape for additional protection as kids splash in the water and comes in a quick-drying UPF 50+ material that's both chlorine- and saltwater-resistant, according to the brand. Best bucket UPF hat for kids UV Skinz is one of Tareen's go-to brands, she says. As a mom of five, she appreciates both the safety and practicality of these UPF 50+ hats that she says actually stay on little heads. Plus, this versatile style has a sun flap to cover ears and necks but can also be tucked away. Best UPF hat for 9 to 18 months These Green Sprouts hats give full coverage from the sun to little necks and ears. They are also machine-washable, come in a UPF 50+ water-wicking material and feature an adjustable toggle to grow with the baby. This hat also has a 4.8-star average rating from 123 reviews at Green Sprouts. Best UPF hat for babies With reversible patterns, playful 3D animal details and a range of colors, there's an adorable option for every baby fashionista from Durio. The brand also makes the Summer Beach UPF Hat for toddlers and kids up to 8 years old. These lightweight sun hats block up to 98 percent of UVA and UVB rays with a UPF 50+ cotton and polyester fabric. Best reversible UPF hat for babies Given the amount of time Tareen's five kids have spent in these UPF 50+ sun protective hats, she knows that they aren't only safe but they also stay on with their simple tie. These water-friendly, reversible hats come in both boys and girls versions in an array of patterns and colors. How to shop for a UPF hat Although style is always top of mind — and there are plenty of great options out there to choose from — it's important to invest in a hat that fully protects you and is best for your needs. Fortunately, our experts say there are several key factors that will easily rule out the good from the not-so-good. SCF seal: A good place to start is looking for the Skin Cancer Foundation's Seal of Recommendation, according to our experts. Although the optimal rating is UPF 50+, the foundation grants this seal to fabrics that have a minimum of 30 UPF on the lightest shade in the product range. In addition, the clothing awarded this seal must also pass a number of tests by the American Association of Textile Chemists and Colorists. Brim coverage: As noted above, our experts also said to invest in at least a 3-inch wide brim to shade the face, scalp, neck, shoulders and upper back. Kids' brims should be a minimum of 2.5 inches, according to the Skin Cancer Foundation. Water resistance: If you're planning to wear your hat at the beach or for any other water activity, look for a hat that will dry quickly if it gets wet, as studies have found that UPF hats are less effective when wet. Other key considerations when shopping for a quality UPF sun hat or any other type of UPF clothing, according to our experts, include opting for darker colors and tighter weaves, like polyester and nylon rather than cotton, flax and hemp, which absorb UV rays rather than deflect them. Meet our experts At NBC Select, we work with experts who have specialized knowledge and authority based on relevant training and/or experience. We also take steps to ensure all expert advice and recommendations are made independently and without undisclosed financial conflicts of interest. Why trust NBC Select?


Express Tribune
30-04-2025
- Business
- Express Tribune
Ali Tareen warns HBL PSL will struggle to retain foreign talent due to IPL clash
Listen to article Multan Sultans owner Ali Tareen has expressed serious concerns over the HBL Pakistan Super League (PSL) continuing to clash with the Indian Premier League (IPL) calendar. Tareen warned that such scheduling could jeopardize the league's ability to attract and retain top-tier international talent in the coming years. Taking to X (formerly Twitter), Tareen acknowledged that the HBL PSL has enjoyed remarkable growth since its launch in 2016, thanks in large part to the participation of global T20 stars like Darren Sammy, Shane Watson, Colin Munro, and Rilee Rossouw. But with the IPL drawing away more and more high-profile players each season, Tareen questioned whether the PSL could continue to compete on that level. 'Can we keep attracting players of this calibre for the next decade if we keep clashing with the IPL window?' he asked. 'Or will we keep losing our top performers to the IPL after a season or two?' While Tareen admitted there was initial support for scheduling HBL PSL games during the IPL season—particularly as a way to carve out its own identity—he now suggests that approach may be doing more harm than good. His remarks have reignited an ongoing debate within Pakistan cricket circles about player availability, global visibility, and the broader commercial impact of competing directly with the IPL—the most lucrative and widely watched T20 league in the world. The concerns come as several foreign players have prioritized IPL contracts over PSL appearances this year, prompting league officials and franchises to reassess recruitment strategies and the overall competitiveness of the PSL on the international stage. New Zealand great Kane Williamson reportedly joined Karachi Kings late due to his commentary commitments with IPL earlier this year, having gone undrafted in the IPL draft. Tareen's post also clarified his own commitment to the Multan Sultans, denying recent rumours of his exit from the franchise. But his candid take on the PSL's scheduling dilemma suggests major strategic discussions could be on the horizon.


Express Tribune
26-04-2025
- Business
- Express Tribune
HBL PSL tug-of-war continues off the field
The contract between the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) and the franchises will come to an end with HBL PSL 10. After conducting a valuation, PCB will grant the existing teams the right to remain in the league; however, the franchise fees could increase by 25% or more. The most expensive franchise, Multan Sultans, pays approximately PKR 1.08 billion annually in franchise fees alone, with other expenses being additional. The team suffers heavy losses every year, which is why, even before the current edition, owner Ali Tareen had started voicing concerns about the model. Recently, during a media interaction in Multan, Tareen clearly stated that if the franchise fee is increased, they would consider going for re-bidding. According to sources within the board, when the PCB approached the franchises a few months ago to inquire whether they wished to retain their teams, all franchises, including Multan Sultans, expressed their willingness. However, suddenly, Ali Tareen began making stern statements, which surprised many. It now seems that Tareen is preparing the ground for a major decision or trying to exert pressure on the board to reduce the fees. Board sources mentioned that, according to the agreement, a reduction in the franchise fee is not possible. After the valuation, an increase is inevitable. If Multan Sultans decides to leave, the team will be re-bid, though it is still unclear whether the current owner will be able to participate in that process. If any one franchise is allowed a reduced fee, other teams will also demand the same, a situation that the board cannot accept under any circumstances. Meanwhile, some circles are questioning why the PCB has not taken any action against Ali Tareen for his controversial statements, with no show-cause notice being issued. Sources suggest that after the valuation, the annual franchise fee for Multan Sultans could rise to around PKR 1.5 billion. Consequently, the pressure on PSL authorities will increase to sell two new teams for over PKR 2 billion each. Given the current market conditions, this will be very difficult to achieve. Therefore, if the Sultan's franchise fee is reduced or maintained, it may allow new teams to be sold for a little over PKR 1 billion, which could be a reason for the league's leniency. However, board sources have dismissed this perception, saying, "Why would we devalue our league? If anyone is dreaming of buying a franchise at a low price, they will be disappointed. Many parties, both in Pakistan and abroad, are ready to join the PSL."


The Hindu
23-04-2025
- Health
- The Hindu
Pakistan gunmen kill two police guarding polio vaccinators
Gunmen killed two Pakistani police officers guarding polio vaccinators in the turbulent southwestern province of Balochistan, officials said on Wednesday, the second attack since the launch of a nationwide inoculation drive this week. In Pakistan and neighbouring Afghanistan -- the only countries where polio remains endemic -- militants have for decades targeted vaccination teams and their security escorts. The officers were guarding health workers in the Teeri area of Mastung district when they were attacked by two motorcyclists, local administrator Manan Tareen told AFP. "One of the policemen was killed on the spot, while the other succumbed to his injuries at the hospital," Tareen told AFP. "The team of health workers remained unharmed as they were inside a house conducting vaccinations," he added. Shahid Rind, a provincial government spokesperson, confirmed the toll to AFP. No group immediately claimed responsibility for the attack, which comes days after a policeman was killed in neighbouring Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province. Over the past decade, hundreds of police officers and health workers have been killed by militants waging an offensive against the Pakistani state. Denouncing Wednesday's violence, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif vowed that the vaccinations would continue "with full force". The latest polio eradication campaign aims to vaccinate over 45 million children, including over 2.6 million in Balochistan. Polio, a highly infectious virus mainly affecting children under five, can result in lifelong paralysis but is easily prevented by the oral administration of a few drops of a vaccine. Pakistan recorded a surge in polio cases last year, with 74 infections reported, compared to just six in 2023. So far this year, seven cases have been recorded. In the past, firebrand clerics falsely claimed the vaccine contained pork or alcohol, forbidding Muslims from consuming it. The US orchestration of a fake vaccination campaign in 2011 to track Osama bin Laden only sowed deeper mistrust. In more recent years, militants' attacks on police escorts have stymied vaccination efforts. Last year, dozens of Pakistani officers who were accompanying medical teams went on strike after a string of deadly attacks. The country has been rocked by increasing violence in its border regions since the Taliban returned to power nextdoor in 2021. Islamabad accuses Kabul's new rulers of failing to rout militants organising on Afghan soil, a charge the Taliban government routinely denies. Balochistan -- which sits alongside Afghanistan -- was the area with the largest number of polio cases in 2024, despite being the most sparsely populated. Pakistan's poorest province is in the grip of separatist militants who regularly attack security forces, including a train siege last month that killed dozens of people.


Express Tribune
23-04-2025
- Business
- Express Tribune
Multan Sultans owner denies franchise exit, questions PSL sustainability
Listen to article Multan Sultans owner Ali Tareen has denied rumours suggesting he intends to part ways with the Pakistan Super League (PSL) franchise following the conclusion of the tournament's 10th edition. Speaking to local media after the Sultans' 33-run victory over Lahore Qalandars, Tareen clarified that while his team is reassessing its franchise agreement, there are no immediate plans to exit. 'I never said I'm abandoning Multan Sultans,' Tareen said. 'We are simply exploring options to re-evaluate our franchise agreement after the tenth edition of the PSL.' Tareen raised concerns over the existing PSL financial model, which he described as "unsustainable." He noted that while the franchise holds the option to renew its agreement with a 25 percent increase in cost, such terms are financially burdensome. 'At that price, we're operating at a loss,' he said. The businessman indicated a preference for re-entering the bidding process under revised conditions. 'Hopefully, we can secure the team again at a valuation that makes financial sense, similar to the Karachi Kings' $26 million deal over ten years.' Tareen also referenced the financial difficulties of the franchise's previous owners, who, according to him, 'suffered significant losses and couldn't continue,' prompting his team to step in and stabilise the club's operations. On the sporting front, Tareen expressed satisfaction with the Sultans' first win of the season, especially following their earlier defeat to Islamabad United. 'The coaches and I agreed there was no need to panic. We knew once we got back to Multan, we'd get things back on track,' he said. Despite subdued public interest in PSL Season 10, Tareen reaffirmed the franchise's deep ties to its home base. 'We told the players they're playing for the people of Multan. That connection, that love – it's what drives us.' Highlighting the success of his cricket development initiatives, Tareen pointed to 14-year-old Sheher Bano, a graduate of his cricket academy, who has gone on to represent Pakistan in the Under-19 Asia Cup and World Cup qualifiers. He also praised the early performances of the Sultans' development squad, competing in the President's Trophy Grade-II under the JDW banner. Looking ahead, Tareen announced plans to bolster cricket infrastructure in South Punjab, with projects underway to construct a new stadium in DHA Multan and upgrade existing facilities in Rahim Yar Khan and Bahawalpur. 'Our goal is to create a strong regional network for talent development,' he said.