Do sun visors provide complete protection?

Sun visors create dangerous protection gaps, leaving valuable areas exposed to ultraviolet damage. Although these are popular mechanisms for heat relief, they are ineffective methods for protecting parts of the body, such as the lines, ears, and necks, against direct radiation. Dermatologists confirm that wearers of sun visors must utilize additional protection if they expect to be truly safe, especially over long periods of sun exposure.

While coaching tennis, I would observe players with excessively painful sunburns of scalp and they remain protected by visors. Their hair part lines displayed blistering when they removed their hats, and in extreme cases, their necks were significantly burned. When a ventilated wide-brim hat was worn, all of these problems were eliminated while still allowing for athletic performance and thermal management.

Use visors only if they are combined with comprehensive supplementary protection. Reapply SPF 50+ to the exposed areas of your scalp every two hours. Use UV-blocking neck gaiters and ear protectors. Full-coverage options, such as a breathable bucket hat, are a much better way to ensure complete skin safety without the need for additional accessories.

To ensure optimal protection, consider performance full-brim alternatives. Select designs featuring a mesh crown to reduce heat buildup. Athletic brands offer lightweight fabrics with a UPF rating of 50+ or higher. Your skin is completely covered when you're outdoors, regardless of the activity.

Read the full article: Ultimate Hat Sun Protection Guide