Share This Article
Ditch the plastic. Here are TWF’s picks for sun protection hats for women that will shield your skin… naturally. Cotton, raffia, and linen are the stars for this season’s stylish picks.
| All products featured on The Wellness Feed are independently selected by our editors for their environmental and ethical impact. However, we may earn an affiliate commission when you buy something through our retail links. |
Summer is officially here, and with it comes beach days, outdoor gatherings with friends, long soaks in the pool, and other fun activities in the sun’s playful rays. All that fun in the sun means it’s time to amp up our skincare routines to protect our skin from UVA and UVB rays. And that means it’s time to bring out hats to not only complement our linen sets, but also shield and protect our skin.
If you’re wearing sunscreen, good job, that’s the first step when it comes to proper skincare. But, you should know, sunscreen alone isn’t enough to keep your skin safe from harmful UV rays. During peak hours—usually from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.—the sun’s rays are strongest and the most damaging. Wearing a hat is one of the easiest (and most stylish) ways to shield your face, neck, and shoulders from sunburn and long-term skin damage. When made from natural fibers like linen, cotton, and raffia, hats combine comfort, style, and eco-friendliness. The reason is that natural fabrics and dyes biodegrade faster than plastic-based options like polyester that can also contribute to microplastics.
It might seem like a no-brainer when it comes to shopping for a cotton versus polyester hat. Yet, after scrolling through sites from several popular retailers, we noticed a common theme of linen, cotton, and raffia hats being advertised that contain as little as 10% of those materials. The other 90% is, you guessed it, polyester or polyamide. So, we’ve researched and sorted through the greenwashing and plastic to find hats made from 100% natural fabrics that are perfect for all of your summer activities.
Hats Are More Than Just Pretty Accessories
UV radiation is a major cause of skin problems. Over time, excess exposure can lead to dark spots, wrinkles, and even skin cancer, including melanoma—the deadliest form of skin cancer. The Skin Cancer Foundation reports that one in five Americans will develop skin cancer in their lifetime. Protecting your skin from UV rays is vital to reduce health risks and maintain a youthful appearance.
Hats provide a quick shield for your face, ears, neck, and shoulders. They block direct sunlight, reducing UV exposure fast and effectively. Compared to sunscreens or staying indoors, hats are simple, immediate, and hands-free. A wide-brim hat—at least three inches—offers the most coverage, making it a must-have for outdoor activities like gardening, hiking, or simply enjoying time outside.
Advantages of Natural Materials
Like any other part of your wardrobe, choosing the right materials is key to not only dressing appropriately for the weather, but also shopping in a way that’s beneficial for the environment. For both cases, natural fibers perform better than plastic-based materials.
Natural fibers like linen, cotton, and raffia are highly breathable. They allow air flow, helping your skin stay cool and dry. Unlike synthetic fabrics, these materials wick away sweat and prevent overheating, which is essential on hot days. When tightly woven, they also offer good UV protection. Dense, tight weaves block sunlight more effectively. Several studies show that quality linen and cotton fabrics can provide a UPF (Ultraviolet Protection Factor) of 5, meaning it can block out 80% of the sun’s UV rays, depending on the weave. Raffia, with its stiff texture, is also effective at blocking ultraviolet rays. Choosing hats with tightly woven fibers is key to maximizing sun safety.
Linen, cotton, and raffia are eco-friendly fabrics. Linen, made from flax, uses less water and pesticides than synthetic fibers. Cotton grown responsibly can be sustainable too, especially if labeled organic. Raffia, a natural plant fiber from palm leaves, is biodegradable and renewable. In contrast, polyester is made from plastic derived from fossil fuels, which harms the planet and takes hundreds of years to decompose. By choosing natural materials, you support a healthier environment and reduce waste.
Disadvantages of Polyester
Polyester is the most widely used material in the fashion industry. However, when it comes to keeping you cool in summer, it underperforms compared to its natural counterparts- linen and cotton. Synthetic fabrics like polyester trap heat and sweat more than natural fibers. Wearing a polyester hat can leave you feeling hot and sticky, particularly on days when you need ventilation most. Many users report that polyester hats feel heavy and cause discomfort during outdoor activities. This heat retention can even lead to faster dehydration or heat exhaustion.
Polyester fibers are effective at blocking UV rays, however some items are treated with chemical coatings to increase its UPF. These treatments can wash out over time and garments’ UPF can drop by as much as 40% after several washes. This means that many polyester hats don’t offer consistent sun protection. Plus, chemical treatments can contain harmful toxins.
Another concern about plastic-based fabrics is their impact on the environment. Polyester production involves energy-intensive processes and releases greenhouse gases. It’s also not biodegradable, adding to landfill waste when the hats are discarded. Washing polyester fabrics sheds microplastics into water systems, harming marine life. Overall, synthetic fabrics have a much higher environmental footprint than natural fiber alternatives.
How to Choose the Perfect Sun Protection Hat
Material Quality and Weave Density
Always look for hats made from 100% or a high percentage of linen, cotton, or raffia. Also, look for a tight weave. The denser the weave, the better the protection from UV rays. Hold the hat up to the light—if little light comes through, it’s likely good at blocking the sun too.
Design and Coverage
Shop for wide-brim styles—floppy, fedora, or bucket hats—that shade your face, neck, and shoulders. Some hats come with adjustable straps or chin ties, making them easier to wear while active. Remember, more coverage equals less sun damage.
Sustainability Certifications and Ethical Production
Buy from brands that prioritize eco-friendly practices and fair-trade manufacturing. Look for certifications like GOTS (Global Organic Textile Standard) or Fair Trade. These labels assure you the product is responsibly made and supports ethical labor practices.
Practical Tips for Wearability
Combine your hat with sunglasses and SPF sunscreen for extra protection. Choose hats that are lightweight, foldable, and easy to carry. Proper care, like gentle washing and storing in a cool place, prolongs their lifespan and keeps them looking fresh.
Choosing sun protection hats for women made from linen, cotton, and raffia is a smart step toward sun safety and sustainability. These natural materials offer superior breathability, effective UV protection, and eco-friendly benefits. They help keep your skin safe from harmful rays while supporting a healthier planet. Whether you’re heading to the beach, gardening, or simply enjoying outdoor time, switch to stylish, eco-conscious hats. Protect your skin, look good, and do good for the environment—all at once.