As well as damage to the skin, Ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun can cause damage to the eyes and the sensitive skin around them. The face, back of the head, eyes and ears have some of the highest levels of UV radiation exposure and skin cancers commonly develop on these sites. A sun-protective hat can substantially reduce this exposure.

Choosing a SunSmart hat

Some hats offer better protection than others.

Wear a hat that protects the face, head, neck and ears, such as a legionnaire, broad-brimmed or deep crown bucket hat.

The brim of broad-brimmed hats should be at least 5cm for children 0 - 8 years, 6cm for children 9 - 11 years, and 7.5cm for adults and children 12 years and above. 

Deep crown bucket hats should have a brim of at least 5cm for children 0 - 8 years, and 6cm for adults and children 9 years and above. 

Legionnaire hats with flaps covering the ears and neck are also recommended. 

Baseball caps and visors do not offer enough protection from the sun and are not recommended.

When the Ultraviolet Index (UVI) is 3 and above, for the best protection use all five SunSmart behaviours – Slip on clothing, Slip into shade, Slop on sunscreen, Slap on a hat, and Wrap on sunglasses.