Sun Protective Clothing: What You Need to Know
The sun’s UV rays can be harmful to our skin, causing sunburn, premature aging, and even skin cancer. While we often think about applying sunscreen to protect ourselves, another line of defense is sun protective clothing. This type of clothing is specially designed to block UV rays and keep our skin safe from the sun. In this article, we will discuss what sun protective clothing is, how it works, and why it is important to incorporate it into your daily routine.
What is Sun Protective Clothing?
Sun protective clothing, also known as UPF clothing, is made from special fabrics that provide a high level of protection against the sun’s UV rays. UPF stands for Ultraviolet Protection Factor and measures how much UV radiation can penetrate a fabric. The higher the UPF rating, the better the protection. The average cotton t-shirt, for example, has a UPF rating of about 5, while sun protective clothing typically has a UPF rating of 50 or higher.
These fabrics work by blocking and absorbing UV radiation. They have a tight weave that prevents UV rays from passing through to the skin. Some fabrics are also treated with chemicals to enhance their UV protection. Sun protective clothing can come in various forms, including hats, shirts, pants, and even swimwear.
How Does Sun Protective Clothing Work?
Sun protective clothing works by creating a barrier between the skin and the sun’s UV rays. UV rays are divided into three types: UVA, UVB, and UVC. UVA and UVB rays are the types that affect our skin, with UVA rays being responsible for wrinkles and sun damage, and UVB rays being responsible for sunburns and skin cancer.
Sun protective clothing is designed to block both UVA and UVB rays, providing a physical barrier to prevent them from reaching the skin. The tight weave of the fabrics blocks most of the UV rays, and the chemicals used in some fabrics also help to absorb and dissipate the UV radiation.
Why is Sun Protective Clothing Important?
Sun protective clothing is essential for a few reasons:
1. Protection Against Sun Damage
As mentioned earlier, sun protective clothing provides a physical barrier against the sun’s UV rays. This means that it can prevent sunburns and sun damage, such as wrinkles and premature aging. It also reduces the risk of developing skin cancer. According to the Skin Cancer Foundation, sun exposure is the leading cause of skin cancer, and wearing UPF clothing can reduce the risk by 27%.
2. Easy and Convenient Protection
Applying sunscreen can be a tedious task, and it’s easy to forget to reapply every few hours. With sun protective clothing, you can simply put on the garment and be protected for the rest of the day. There is no need to constantly reapply sunscreen or worry about missing any spots. This makes it a convenient and highly effective form of protection against the sun.
3. Safe for Sensitive Skin
Some people have sensitive skin that reacts negatively to sunscreen or other products. Sun protective clothing provides a safe and chemical-free alternative for these individuals. The fabric acts as a physical barrier, so there is no need to worry about an adverse reaction or irritation.
4. Suitable for All Ages
Sun protective clothing is suitable for everyone, from infants to seniors. Infants and young children have delicate skin that is much more susceptible to sun damage, making UPF clothing an ideal option. It is also a great option for older individuals who may have thinning skin and are more vulnerable to the sun’s rays.
Tips for Choosing Sun Protective Clothing
When shopping for sun protective clothing, there are a few things to keep in mind:
1. Look for a High UPF Rating
As mentioned earlier, the higher the UPF rating, the better the protection. Look for clothing with a UPF rating of 50 or higher for the best protection.
2. Choose Darker Colors
Darker colors tend to have a higher UPF rating compared to lighter colors. Black, for example, has a UPF rating of around 10, while white has a UPF rating of about 7. For maximum protection, opt for darker shades when choosing sun protective clothing.
3. Check the Label
When shopping for sun protective clothing, check the garment’s label to ensure that it is designed specifically for sun protection. Some clothing may be made from UV-resistant fabrics but may not provide the same level of protection as UPF clothing.
4. Consider the Style
Sun protective clothing comes in various styles, so it is essential to choose a garment that fits your needs. If you spend a lot of time in the water, consider investing in sun protective swimwear. If you spend a lot of time outdoors, a long-sleeved UPF shirt or a wide-brimmed hat may be more suitable.
Sun protective clothing is a great addition to your sun protection routine. Along with sunscreen and seeking shade, it can provide an extra layer of protection against the sun’s harmful rays. So next time you head out into the sun, make sure to grab your sun protective clothing and stay safe in the sun.
Conclusion
Sun protective clothing is an excellent way to protect ourselves from the sun’s harmful UV rays. With its high UPF rating, convenience, and versatility, it is a must-have for anyone spending time outdoors. So remember to add some UPF clothing to your wardrobe and enjoy the sun without worrying about sun damage or sunburns.
