American Academy of Dermatology Recognizes Coolibar

The American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) has honored Coolibar with its first-ever recognition of sun-protection clothing. The AAD shares Coolibar's passion for sun protection and its recommendation that everyone cover up with long sleeves, pants and wide-brimmed hats.

The AAD SEAL OF RECOGNITION® program is overseen by dermatologists with expertise in photobiology and skin cancer who serve on the Academy’s Melanoma/Skin Cancer Committee. Companies with products applying for the AAD SEAL OF RECOGNITION® must submit extensive formulation and scientific testing data from independent laboratories. An independent photobiologist reviews the documentation and makes recommendations to a work group of the Melanoma/Skin Cancer Committee, which ultimately approves the applications.

The Academy’s Board of Directors approved the program criteria that have been developed by the Academy's Council on Science and Research based on the latest scientific evidence:

Clothing & Hats
  • An Ultrviolet Protection Factor (UPF) of 30 or higher
  • UVA transmission of less than 5% (95% blocking of UVA)
  • Meet or exceed minimal coverage criteria as indicated by the European standard (EN13758)
  • Documentation supporting adherence to US standards for testing and labeling of UV protective garments (ASTM D6544; AATCC 183; ASTM D6603)
  • Hats designed for adults must include a fixed brim/fabric material 7.5cm (3”) or more around the circumference of the hat
  • Hats designed for children must include a fixed brim/fabric material around the circumference of the hat. Brim size should be proportionally smaller to that of the adult recommendation based on the head-form size used
AAD Public Health Initiative
A long-term strategic goal of the American Academy of Dermatology is to reduce the incidence of skin cancer through public education.

The AAD SEAL OF RECOGNITION® program is an Academy-driven public health initiative that was conceived to educate the public about the dangers of exposure to the sun. The AAD SEAL OF RECOGNITION® provides a reliable method for choosing sun-protection products that have met a stringent set of evidence-based criteria established by the Academy that are aligned with FDA guidelines and that have been verified by a panel of dermatologists and an independent scientist. Proceeds generated above the cost of administering the program will help to support public education programs that reduce skin cancer and improve public health.