What Is Sun Protection Clothing?

Introduction

Are you tired of hiding from the sun or constantly reapplying sun cream? Sun protection clothing offers a reliable and consistent barrier against harmful UV rays. Unlike sun cream, it doesn’t require reapplication and ensures steady protection throughout the day. However, not all clothing is created equal with each piece offering a different level of protection, measured by the UPF (Ultraviolet Protection Factor) scale. You might be surprised to learn that most everyday clothes provide minimal UV defence. Let's explore how UPF-rated clothing can protect your skin from the dangerous effects of the sun such as skin cancer and premature ageing.

What Is UPF and Why Does It Matter?

When shopping for sun protection clothing, look for the UPF label. UPF stands for Ultraviolet Protection Factor and is a rating system that indicates how much UV radiation the fabric blocks. A higher UPF means better protection. For example, UPF 50+ blocks 98% of UV rays, letting only 2% through to your skin. That’s serious sun protection!

How Does UPF Differ from SPF?

While you may be familiar with SPF, Sun Protection Factor, when it comes to sun cream, UPF applies to clothing. SPF measures how well sun cream protects your skin from UVB rays, while UPF measures the protection provided by fabric against both UVA and UVB rays.

What Is UPF Clothing?

UPF clothing is made from fabrics tested and rated for their ability to block UV radiation. These clothes are designed to protect your skin from both UVA and UVB rays, giving you an extra layer of defence against harmful sun exposure. UPF clothing essentially acts as a layer of broad-spectrum sun cream for your skin, providing continuous protection without reapplication!

Difference Between Ordinary Clothing and UPF Clothing?

While ordinary clothes can block some UV rays, they aren't designed to provide the same level of protection as UPF clothing. UPF-rated clothing is specially engineered to block a higher percentage of UV rays, offering more reliable protection. So, if you want to ensure you're properly protected, opt for clothing with a high UPF rating to maximise your defence against the sun.

5 Things That Affect How Well Your Clothes Block UV Rays

Here’s a quick rundown of the factors that affect your clothing's ability to protect you from the sun:

• Fabric Type: Synthetics like polyester are better than cotton.
• Weave: Tightly woven fabrics offer better protection than loose weaves.
• Colour: Dark colours block more UV rays.
• Moisture: Wet clothing is less effective at blocking UV rays.
• Condition: Worn-out clothing may not offer as much protection as new, tightly woven fabrics.

Sun protection clothing is made to optimise all these features in order to provide the best sun protection, and this is why sun protection clothing tends to be fast-drying, tightly woven and durable.

What Are Other Ways to Protect Yourself Against the Sun?

In addition to wearing UPF clothing, here are some other ways to stay protected:

• Sun cream: Apply a broad-spectrum sun cream with SPF 30 or higher on exposed skin.
• Seek shade: Stay out of direct sunlight, especially during peak hours (10 AM - 4 PM).
• Sunglasses: Wear UV-protective sunglasses to protect your eyes from the sun.

FAQs About Sun Protection Clothing

What is considered protective clothing from the sun?

Clothing with a UPF rating of 30 or higher is considered protective. Look for fabrics like nylon, polyester, or tightly woven materials.

Does UV protection clothing really work?

Yes! UPF clothing is scientifically designed to block UV rays, offering reliable protection.

Can you tan through UPF clothing?

It's highly unlikely. UPF-rated fabrics block most UV rays, preventing tanning through the fabric.

Do I need sun cream if I wear long sleeves?

If your long sleeves are made from regular fabric, yes. But if you're wearing UPF-rated clothing, sun cream may not be necessary for the covered areas.

What are examples of protective clothing?

Hats, long-sleeved shirts, trousers or leggings, and swimwear with UPF ratings are all examples of protective clothing.

Do normal clothes block UV rays?

Some do, but UPF clothing offers significantly better protection.

Final Takeaway

Sun protection clothing is an easy, effective way to keep your skin safe from the sun’s harmful rays. By choosing clothes with high UPF ratings, wearing hats, and incorporating sun safety habits into your routine, you can protect yourself and your family from long-term damage. Start investing in sun-safe clothing today and enjoy the outdoors worry-free!