Why a Long Sleeve Sun Shirt is the Best Way to Protect Yourself from Harmful UV Rays

Summer is a time for fun in the sun, but it’s also important to protect your skin from the harmful effects of UV rays. Sun exposure can lead to sunburns, premature aging, and even skin cancer. While sunscreen is an important tool in protecting your skin, a long sleeve sun shirt is an even better option. Not only does it offer more coverage, but it also has other benefits that make it a must-have for anyone spending time in the sun.

Full Coverage

A long sleeve sun shirt is designed to cover the entire length of your arms, as well as your chest, back, and shoulders. This provides much more coverage than a traditional short-sleeved shirt. According to the Skin Cancer Foundation, clothing is one of the most effective forms of sun protection, as it blocks out the sun’s harmful UV rays. Plus, because a long sleeve sun shirt covers more skin, it also reduces the amount of sunscreen you need to apply, making it a more cost-effective option as well.

Breathable and Lightweight

Many people may be hesitant to wear long sleeves in the hot summer months, but a long sleeve sun shirt is specifically designed to be lightweight and breathable. The fabric is usually made of a blend of polyester and spandex, which not only makes it lightweight, but also stretchy and comfortable to wear. The fabric is also engineered to wick away sweat, keeping you cool and dry even in the hottest temperatures.

UPF Protection

Similar to how SPF measures the amount of protection sunscreen offers against UVB rays, UPF (Ultraviolet Protection Factor) measures the protective capabilities of clothing against UVA and UVB rays. A long sleeve sun shirt typically has a UPF rating of 50+, which means it blocks out 98% of the sun’s harmful rays. This is significantly higher than the average cotton t-shirt, which only has a UPF rating of about 5. The higher the UPF rating, the more protection the fabric offers against UV rays.

Multi-Purpose

A long sleeve sun shirt is not just for the beach or pool. It can be worn for a variety of outdoor activities, such as hiking, gardening, or even just running errands. It offers protection from the sun while also keeping you cool and comfortable. Plus, many long sleeve sun shirts come in stylish designs and colors, making them a fashionable choice for everyday wear.

Easy Care

One of the great things about a long sleeve sun shirt is that it is low maintenance when it comes to care. Most shirts are machine washable and can be tumble dried on low heat. Unlike sunscreen, there is no need to constantly reapply, making it a hassle-free option.

Budget-Friendly

Considering the benefits and the fact that a long sleeve sun shirt can be worn over and over again, it is a budget-friendly option for sun protection. Although the upfront cost may be more than a traditional cotton t-shirt, the long-term savings on sunscreen and potential skin damage make it a worthwhile investment.

Versatility

A long sleeve sun shirt not only protects against harmful UV rays, but also has other benefits that make it a versatile piece of clothing. It can act as an extra layer for warmth on cool evenings or as a barrier against mosquito bites. Plus, it can double as a rash guard for water activities, providing both sun protection and an added layer of defense against chafing and irritation.

Final Thoughts

A long sleeve sun shirt is a must-have for anyone spending time outdoors, especially during the summer months. Its full coverage, UPF protection, versatility, and budget-friendly nature make it an ideal choice for anyone looking to protect their skin from the sun. So the next time you’re planning a day out in the sun, be sure to pack your long sleeve sun shirt for the ultimate protection and comfort.