UV protection: 9 essential items to shield yourself from UV rays in Singapore

Sheryl Crow may have been in favour of soaking up the sun, but we in Singapore are a more sensible lot. With Singapore’s UV Index hitting the extreme band recently, the importance of blocking ultraviolet (UV) rays should not be underestimated.

First, a caveat. UV exposure offers certain health benefits, like helping to produce Vitamin D. This helps the body absorb calcium, which is vital for bone health. But overexposure to UV radiation can lead to skin cancer, cataracts and – horror of horrors – our skin’s premature ageing.

The NEA’s recommendations for protecting ourselves from UV radiation include using:  

• Sunscreen (at least SPF 30)
• An umbrella
• Sunglasses that block UVA/UVB rays
• A broad-brimmed hat

To help, we’ve put together a list of items that will help you protect your skin and eyes from UV radiation. We’ve also included some basic tips to help you choose items that offer genuine protection from UV rays.

CONTENTS

1. Neutrogena Sport Face Oil-Free Lotion Sunscreen with Broad Spectrum SPF 70+
2. Badger Kids Mineral Sunscreen Combo
3. LA ROCHE-POSAY Anthelios Invisible Spray SFP50+
4. Kaliyadi Polarized Sunglasses
5. Deafrain Kids Polarized UV Sunglasses
6. Ray-Ban RB3025 Polarised Aviator Sunglasses
7. Decathlon Men’s MT500 Anti-UV Trekking Hat
8. Uniqlo UV Protection Compact Umbrella
9. Nike Dri-FIT Swift UV Women's Hooded Running Jacket

SUNSCREEN

The NEA recommends using sunscreens with an SPF (sun protection factor) of at least 30. SPF ratings measure how effectively a sunscreen protects the skin from UV radiation. Look out for broad-spectrum sunscreens that protect against Ultraviolet A (UVA) rays, which have a longer wavelength and Ultraviolet B (UVB) rays.

UVA rays account for 94 per cent of the UV rays that reach the earth’s surface. These can cause premature skin ageing. While UVB rays only account for 6 per cent of UV rays that reach the earth’s surface, they are more intense and linked to skin cancer.

Sunscreen application isn’t a one-and-done deal. Most sunscreens should be reapplied every 90 minutes to two hours, especially if you’re doing water sports or engage in vigorous exercise. Check the application instructions on your sunscreen and remember to wipe off perspiration or water before applying.

1. Neutrogena Sport Face Oil-Free Lotion Sunscreen with Broad Spectrum SPF 70+ (S$15.83)

Formulated for active users, this sunscreen sports Helioplex Technology. Neutrogena says this helps the active ingredients remain stable under the sun’s UV rays so they don’t break down. It offers broad-spectrum UVA and UVB protection and are resistant to water, perspiration and wiping.

• UVA, UVB protection
• Helioplex Technology helps active ingredients remain stable

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2. Badger Kids Mineral Sunscreen Combo (S$41.53)

Protect your kids while on the go with this combo pack. Consisting of an SPF 40 cream and SPF 35 face stick, both items have been formulated to protect children from sunburn and skin damage. They offer broad spectrum UVA and UVB protection. They’re made from a few simple ingredients that moisturise and protect skin. Gluten free, non-GMO and hypoallergenic, this sunscreen is easy to apply and does not contain chemicals that harm coral reefs.

• UVA, UVB protection
• Reef safe

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3. LA ROCHE-POSAY Anthelios Invisible Spray SFP50+ (S$52.40, Two for S$78.60)

This spray-on sunscreen has a non-sticky, non-greasy texture and is ideal for covering hard-to-reach areas. It’s a broad-spectrum sunscreen that protects the skin from UVA and UVB rays. It can also help protect against Infrared-A rays and pollution. Best applied just before exposure to the sun, it has been dermatologically and allergy tested.

• UVA, UVB protection
• Non-sticky, non-greasy texture

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SUNGLASSES

Sunglasses are no longer mere fashion accessories, they’re essential for protecting our eyes from UV rays. Choose sunglasses with wraparound or oversized frames that are large enough to block UV rays from the sides. You should also look out for polarised lenses that reduce glare and reflected light, along with lenses that block UVA and UVB rays.

4. Kaliyadi Polarized Sunglasses, 3 pack (S$28.34)

These no-frills sunglasses may be light on brand recognition but are chock-full of protective features and offer great value. Their 100 per cent UV400 coating blocks UVA and UVB rays. Polarised lenses help reduce the glare from reflective surfaces which reduces eye strain. The Wayfarer-inspired frames are made from a light, durable plastic that is comfortable to wear.

• 100 per cent UV400 coating that blocks UVA and UVB rays
• Light, durable frame
• Polarised lenses

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5. Deafrain Kids Polarized UV Sunglasses (S$29.93)

Children spend more time in the sun than adults, so don’t overlook sunglasses for Junior. This kid-friendly pair of shades is made from a soft, flexible frame that is durable and tough. Its polarised lenses help to block reflected light. It also has a 100 per cent UV400 coating that blocks UVA and UVB rays. Weighing just 17g, these are light enough to be comfortably worn all day.

• 100 per cent UV400 coating that blocks UVA and UVB rays
• Durable, comfortable frame weighs 17g

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6. Ray-Ban RB3025 Polarised Aviator Sunglasses (S$147.39, Usual Price: S$247)

You may not look like Tom Cruise or fly your own plane but you’ll definitely channel serious Top Gun vibes with these classic Ray-Bans. The oversized frame suits a variety of face shapes but more importantly, helps to block sunlight from the sides. Ray-Ban says its polarised lenses offer improved clarity and contrast, as well as 100 per cent UVA and UVB protection.

• 100 per cent UV400 coating that blocks UVA and UVB rays
• Oversized frame that suits different face shapes

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ACCESSORIES AND CLOTHES

There’s more to UV protection than just sunscreen and sunglasses. The right combination of clothes and accessories can increase your overall protection. When buying clothing items, look for the Ultraviolet Protection Factor (UPF) rating system. This indicates how effective a fabric is at blocking UV rays. For instance, a UPF rating of 15 to 24 implies that the item offers good UV protection, with a UPF rating of 40 to 50+ being regarded as excellent.

Hats with at least a 2-inch all-round brim protect areas that are easy to overlook, like the ears, forehead and neck. Hats with a dark, non-reflective underside can also lower the amount of UV rays reaching the face from reflective surfaces such as water. UPF-rated long-sleeved shirts, long pants and long skirts offer considerable protection against UV rays. Bright and dark-coloured clothes reflect more UV radiation than pastel coloured and bleached fabrics.

7. Decathlon Men’s MT500 Anti-UV Trekking Hat  (S$14.90)

Unleash your inner bushwalker with this hat that offers all-round protection. Its wide-brimmed design and anti-UV fabric protects your face, neck and shoulders. To keep you cool and comfortable, its perforated design allows moisture and heat to escape while its fabric wicks away perspiration.

• Anti-UV fabric
• Wide-brimmed design helps protect face, neck and shoulders

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8. Uniqlo UV Protection Compact Umbrella (S$29.90)

As it turns out, umbrella-wielding aunties were onto something all along. This light, compact umbrella offers UPF40 protection and fits easily into backpacks and handbags. An environmentally friendly water-repellant coating doesn’t use harmful fluorine compounds often utilised in conventional finishes. Its head is designed to rotate in strong winds, so you don’t have to engage in an undignified tug of war with your brolly when the breeze picks up.

• UPF40 protection
• Environmentally friendly water-repellant coating

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9. Nike Dri-FIT Swift UV Women's Hooded Running Jacket (S$99)

Clock your daily miles and boost your protection against UV rays with this jacket that blocks UVA and UVB rays. Nike Dri-FIT technology wicks perspiration away from your skin, helping you stay cool. Multiple zips – a 1/4-length zip at the collar and two at the hem – let you adjust the fit and amount of cooling on the fly.

• Blocks UVA and UVB rays
• Perspiration-wicking Nike Dri-FIT technology

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The good news is that you can still enjoy the great outdoors by exercising common sense and taking a few simple precautions. For instance, sunglasses offer practical solutions for kids and adults and don’t have to break the bank.

Spray-on sunscreens make it easy to cover hard-to-reach areas. If you’re an active user who’s often out in the sun, opt for a sunscreen that offers greater protection. Environmentally friendly options may cost slightly more, but also mean that you’re doing your bit to protect reefs and Mother Nature.

Round off your UV-blocking arsenal with hats, umbrellas and clothes that offer simple, flexible options to stay protected from UV rays.

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Prices are accurate as of the time of publication. Discount codes for some products are available for eligible Prime members.