The Best Hat for the Beach

QUESTION: I am going to the beach next week and am concerned about the sun. What kinds of hats will give me protection but also look attractive?

ANSWER: Wearing a hat is a great way to protect yourself from the sun on the beach. But not all hats are created equal. According to the American Academy of Dermatology, the best protection comes from a hat with a brim that's at least four inches wide.

You should also look for one made of a tightly-woven material, which will prevent sunlight from penetrating to your scalp and skin. An easy way to check the weave of your hat is to hold it up to light; if you see speckles of light coming through, it's likely to be too loosely-woven to offer much protection.

As far as style goes, you have several options. A floppy-brim straw hat is a summer classic, and this year, designers and department stores are offering versions with ribbon trim and woven of multi-colored raffia. Another option is a cotton or canvas boating hat, which has a more casual feel and can be found in bright colors and patterns.

You might also look into a hat made specifically for sun protection (these are clinically proven to offer SPF up to 50). Both Sun Precautions and Sun Solutions carry timeless styles that look great at the beach and beyond.

A final note: While wearing a hat will give you protection from the sun, it's not an excuse to skip sunscreen, especially if you'll be spending the day on the beach. Remember to apply an SPF 15 or higher before stepping outside, and to reapply regularly.