Soak Up the Sun, Not the Damage: Your Guide to Sun Protection with Sun Bum, UPF, and Wide Brims

August 22, 2025

By Samantha Griffin, SCUBA and Snowsports Department at Bill Jackson’s Shop for Adventure

Living in the Sunshine State, particularly right here in Pinellas Park, Florida, means we’re blessed with beautiful weather year-round. Days spent at the beach exploring nature trails, or simply enjoying our backyards.  It’s part of what makes life here so vibrant. However, this constant exposure to the sun’s powerful rays also comes with a significant responsibility. we must protect our skin. With skin cancer rates on the rise due to cumulative sun exposure, understanding and implementing effective sun protection strategies is no longer optional.It’s a necessity. This is where our trusty trio comes in: high-quality sunscreen like Sun Bum, UPF (Ultraviolet Protection Factor) protective clothing, and stylish wide-brimmed sun hats. Let’s dive into why these should be your everyday essentials, not just here in Florida, but wherever your adventures take you.

The undeniable truth about the Sun.

The sun, while a source of warmth and vitamin D, emits harmful ultraviolet (UV) radiation. This radiation, particularly UVA and UVB rays, can cause significant damage to our skin cells. Short-term effects include sunburn, premature aging (wrinkles, sunspots, loss of elasticity), and eye damage. However, the long-term consequences are far more serious. The most alarming  include being the increased risk of skin cancer, including melanoma, basal cell carcinoma, and squamous cell carcinoma.

The statistics are sobering. Skin cancer is the most common form of cancer in the United States, and a significant portion of cases are directly linked to excessive sun exposure. Living in Florida, with its intense and prolonged sunshine, places us at an even higher risk. The UV index here is frequently high, meaning that unprotected skin can sustain damage in a very short amount of time. Therefore, adopting a comprehensive sun protection regimen is paramount for Floridians.

Not just a Florida issue.

However, the importance of sun safety doesn’t diminish when we travel. Whether you’re hitting the slopes on snow skis or a snowboard, exploring ancient ruins, fishing on a lake, or relaxing on a tropical beach in another part of the world, UV radiation is present. In fact, at higher altitudes, UV intensity can increase. Many travelers mistakenly believe that they only need sunscreen when it’s hot or sunny. This couldn’t be further from the truth. UV rays can penetrate clouds, and they can reflect off surfaces like snow, water, and sand, intensifying their impact. This is why packing and consistently using sun protection should be as automatic as bringing your passport and toothbrush, no matter your destination.

Sunscreen: The Frontline Defense

When it comes to sunscreen that combines efficacy with a love for the sun-soaked lifestyle, Sun Bum stands out. Born from the beaches of Florida, Sun Bum understands the demands of our environment. Their range of SPF sunscreens offers broad-spectrum protection, shielding your skin from both UVA and UVB rays. This is crucial because both types of UV radiation contribute to skin damage and cancer risk.

What makes Sun Bum a fantastic choice? Firstly, their formulations are often enriched with nourishing ingredients like Vitamin E, which helps to moisturize and protect your skin. Secondly, they offer a variety of application types, from lotions and sprays to sticks, making it easy to find a product that suits your preference and needs for different activities. Whether you’re looking for a daily moisturizer with SPF, a water-resistant formula for swimming, or a convenient stick for your face and lips, Sun Bum has you covered. Remember, the key to effective sunscreen use is consistent and correct application. Apply generously 15-30 minutes before sun exposure, and reapply every two hours, or immediately after swimming or sweating. Don’t forget often-missed areas like the tops of your ears, the back of your neck, and the tops of your feet.

Sun Protective Clothing

But sunscreen isn’t the only weapon in our sun protection arsenal. UPF protective clothing provides another layer of defense. UPF stands for Ultraviolet Protection Factor and indicates how much UV radiation can penetrate the fabric and reach your skin. For example, a garment with a UPF of 50 allows only 1/50th (or 2%) of the sun’s UV rays to pass through. Unlike SPF, which is specific to sunscreens, UPF is a rating for fabrics.

Incorporating UPF clothing into your wardrobe is a smart way to minimize sun exposure, especially during peak hours. Many brands now offer stylish and comfortable UPF clothing, from long-sleeved shirts and pants to swimwear and even everyday tees. These garments are designed to block a significant amount of UV radiation without the need for constant reapplication, making them incredibly convenient for outdoor activities. When choosing UPF clothing, look for items with a UPF rating of 30 or higher for good protection, and UPF 50+ for excellent protection.

Finally, let’s not underestimate the power of a good wide-brimmed sun hat. While sunscreen and UPF clothing protect the skin directly covered, a wide-brimmed hat offers shade for your face, ears, and neck – areas that are particularly vulnerable to sun damage. Aim for a brim that is at least three inches wide all around to ensure adequate coverage. Whether you prefer a classic straw hat, a sporty canvas style, or a packable travel option, a wide-brimmed hat is a simple yet highly effective way to reduce your risk of sunburn and long-term sun damage.

Enjoy those sunny days.

Building a sun-safe lifestyle means making these protective measures a part of your daily routine. Whether you’re in sunny Florida or exploring a new corner of the globe. Keep a bottle of Sun Bum sunscreen in your bag, car, and by the door. Consider incorporating UPF clothing into your everyday outfits, especially on days with high UV indices. And always grab a wide-brimmed hat when you’re heading outdoors for extended periods. Both sunscreen and UPF clothing are available at your local outdoor retailer.

Sun protection isn’t just about preventing sunburn. It’s about safeguarding your long-term health. By making Sun Bum sunscreen, UPF protective clothing, and wide-brimmed sun hats your everyday essentials, you can continue to enjoy the beauty of the outdoors while minimizing your risk of skin cancer and premature aging. So go ahead, soak up the sun – responsibly!