As an African-American one of the biggest myths is that we don't need to wear sunscreen because of the melanin in our skin. This is far from the truth especially in light of the recent study about prolonged use of sunscreen. Although the subjects weren't African-American it was speculated that outstanding results would have been achieved as well.
While I've used sunscreen off-and-on throughout my childhood and now as an adult every.single.day. especially with my diagnosis of discoid lupus in 2007 it's been important more than ever to practice being sunsafe.
With that in mind when I was introduced to Coolibar at Getting Gorgeous last month, I knew it was a brand that I wanted to learn more about. Sure enough, Coolibar partners with the Lupus Foundation of America to provide education about the importance of maintaining sunsafe habits.
The Coolibar Sun Beach Hat I'm wearing in my new header (as of June '13) was included in my Getting Gorgeous giftbag, and I have to say it's been a mainstay when I'm out and about especially for prolonged playdates at the park and pool. It also gets a lot of attention - every time I wear it I get stopped by people wanting to know where it's from.
Here are a few of my favorite highlights that Coolibar is known for:
- Guaranteed sun protection: All products are rated UPF 50+
- Comfortable, stylish designs: They have beautifully made products for all members of the family; from casual to chic you'll find something for everyone!
- Cooler in Coolibar: Highly breathable, moisture wicking SUNTECT fabrics provide coverage that shades your skin and keeps you cooler
- Skin Cancer Foundation Recommended: Coolibar was the first clothing company to earn the Seal of Recommendation from the Skin Cancer Foundation as safe and effective sun protection
I've noticed my Sun Beach Hat really does keep me cool and because my scalp is most affected by discoid lupus it provides outstanding coverage. It also has an adjustable loop inside to adjust the fit; since the brim is so large I've had a few times when it blows away like a sail so making sure the fit is correct is important! It also folds up nicely but retains its shape and structure when unfolded - no floppy hat syndrome.
When it comes to sun protection for kids Coolibar has them covered too! These Reversible Bucket Hats come in a variety of colors and include the drawstring and fabulous packable structure I mentioned above.
In addition to offering children's sunsafe hats, Coolibar also has a program where they offer their best-selling children's hats to schools, daycares and non-profits. The American Academy of Dermatology Gold Triangle Award recognizes the Coolibar School Sun Hat Program for excellence in raising public awareness of dermatology related issues. You can learn more about the Kids Sun Hat Program here.
Through June 30 Coolibar is offering free shipping on orders of $75 - just visit their website - but you can enter my giveaway to win your own Sun Beach Hat and a Reversible Bucket Hat for your child in the color of your choice!
Enter via Rafflecopter below and as always my giveaway only has one mandatory entry with the rest being optional. Giveaway ends Thursday, July 4 with the winner announced on Friday, July 5. Open to U.S. residents only. Good luck!
a Rafflecopter giveaway