You might want to grab your umbrella—even if the weather forecast doesn’t call for rain: Umbrellas can help protect against ultraviolet rays when it’s sunny outside, according to new research out of Emory University in Atlanta.
For the study, researchers collected 23 umbrellas. They included traditional umbrellas, a larger golf umbrella, a children’s novelty umbrella, and a travel umbrella specifically designed to block out the sun. On a cloudless day, the researchers measured UV radiation (UVR) without an umbrella, as well as from two positions underneath each umbrella. The umbrella created to block rays was the most effective option (it deflected 99 percent of UVR), but all of the umbrellas protected against at least 77 percent of UVR.
The worst pick? A white umbrella. No surprise, black proved to be much more effective: All of the black umbrellas blocked at least 90 percent of UVR, with most blocking more than 95 percent.
While umbrellas can provide an additional layer of protection when the sun’s beating down, you still have to apply plenty of sunscreen. “We feel like this could make a nice complement to what people are already doing for sun protection,” says Josette McMichael, MD, the first author of the study and chief resident of grand rounds in Emory’s department of dermatology. These results also mean that your umbrella does double-duty on rainy days; UVR can make its way to your skin even when it’s cloudy, says McMichael.
Check out these stylish options to help keep you safe:
photo: Amazon.com/Fashion
Tumi Luggage Medium Auto Close Umbrella
This sleek umbrella is super compact, so it’s easy to carry around in your purse.
$ 60 at Amazon.com/Fashion
photo: MoMA Design Store
Sky Umbrella
No matter the actual weather forecast, the sky always looks clear from inside this umbrella’s sky blue canopy.
$ 48 at MoMAStore.org
photo: Mango.com
Glitter Umbrella
The glittery accents on this umbrella shine extra bright on sunny days.
$ 19.99 at Mango.com
photo: BrooksBrothers.com
New Stick Umbrella
The genuine Malaca wooden handle adds a sophisticated touch.
$ 60 at BrooksBrothers.com
photo: Coolibar
42” Titanium Travel Umbrella
This umbrella was specially designed to block UVR. (The travel sun umbrella in the study was also a Coolibar.)
$ 39 at Coolibar.com
More from Women’s Health:
What Is Sunburn?
Sunscreen Myths Busted
Get More from Your Sunscreen
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