In Japan, they’re always one step ahead when it comes to sun protection and Japanese UV umbrellas are certainly one of the best ways of shielding your skin from the sun. They’re extremely practical and you can buy them in a fantastic variety of styles. I think I’ve found the perfect fashion accessory…

Of course, UV umbrellas shouldn’t be used as a replacement for sun cream – they merely enhance your protection – but they’re still a brilliant accessory to own if you want to prevent sun damage. The number one way to protect your skin? WEAR SUN CREAM. Please, darling readers, remember to wear your sun cream!

First of all, if it’s not already clear, I’m extremely passionate about sun cream and UV accessories. My favourite sun cream, the Day Light Protection Sunscreen SPF 50/PA+++ from Neogen is never far from my side and I can’t function in the summer without my UPF 50+ Fingerless Gloves from Coolibar. Why? Uhm, because I don’t want to damage my skin or accelerate premature ageing, that’s why. I’m a firm believer that a tan is a sign of sun damage.

So strong is my love for sun safety, that my friends and colleagues call me ‘vampire’. Bit harsh, considering I freely dish out sun care advice, but whatever. I’m cool with it. Now that I’ve shared my not so subtle reminder to wear sun protection, let’s find out more about some of the fascinating Japanese UV umbrellas I picked up in Kyoto and Mount Fuji.

Why protect your skin from UV rays with a Japanese UV umbrella?

I know we’re all different and some of us might like getting a golden glow. However, there’s a difference between a glow and full on sunburn. American researchers identified that five severe cases of sunburn before we’re 20 can increase our risk of developing skin cancer by 80%, so we really do need to think about our health. Sounds scary, doesn’t it?

“Ah but it’s cloudy so I don’t need to worry about protecting my skin from UV rays, right?”. Wrong. According to Cancer Research UK, over 90% of harmful UV rays can penetrate clouds. Hence why  extra protection is needed.

What are the advantages of using a UV umbrella? 

Harmful UV rays can get through many different materials but if you use a UV umbrella, you’ll certainly protect your skin from the glaring sun. Their main advantages are being able to protect your arms, face, décolletage, neck and shoulders from the sun, as well as offering the perfect alternative to a hat.

UV umbrellas are perfect to use on holiday if you fancy a spot of sightseeing without compromising your health. Not only will using one help you stay cool in rising temperatures, but they’re also lightweight enough to carry in even the smallest of handbags.

Protect your skin with a Japanese UV umbrella and you won’t have to worry about pesky sunburn. Available from pretty much every souvenir shop in Japan sells them, so there’s no excuse not to save your skin! The Japanese are so cautious about sun care, that you’ll find a fantastic selection at the tourism shop near the Mount Fuji observation deck!

These two block out 90% of the sun’s UV rays so needless to say I’m ECSTATIC with this level of protection. I’m already planning to take my Japanese UV umbrellas to Croatia with me this summer!

Be inspired by the Japanese and look online for a similar UV umbrellas from Coolibar. Learn more about my passion for sun safety and can check out my Uniqlo UV clothing!

Tags:  be safe in the sun japanese sun care japanese uv umbrella Sun awareness sun protection sun protection accessory sun protection umbrella sun safety uv umbrella