You’ve heard of how important sunscreens are to protect your skin and you from the sun, but did you know clothing can also do the same and provide higher protection from the sun if you choose right? Let’s take a deep dive into clothing with sun protection properties- UPF clothing.
What is UPF clothing?
UPF stands for Ultraviolet Protection Factor and much like Sun Protection Factor or SPF (which helps measure the effectiveness of sunscreens) UPF helps measure the protectiveness of clothing against ultraviolet rays from the sun. The UPF number indicates how much ultraviolet radiation the fabric or garment will allow to penetrate through the skin. For example, UPF 20 indicates the fabric blocks about 95.8 per cent of UV rays whereas UPF 50 indicates the fabric cab block about 98 per cent of UV rays. While UPFA 20-30 is considered good, UPF 50 is considered excellent in terms of protection provided from the sun’s rays.
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The factors that contribute to a UPF rating include the weave, yarn as well as colour of the fabric used in the garment. Natural fabrics like cotton, linen and hemp, when untreated, may have a lower UPF as opposed to synthetic fibres like nylon and polyester which have proven to deliver higher sun protection. Similarly, darker colours protect better as they absorb light themselves instead of reflecting them back into the skin. The construction of the garment, especially that of the fabric makes a difference to the UPF as well. Closely woven fabrics will end up allowing fewer rays to penetrate through the fabric versus loosely woven fabrics. Certain washes and treatments can help add to the sun protectiveness of loosely woven or natural fibres.
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Benefits of UPF clothing
The adverse effects of long-term sun exposure are very well-known. From sunburns to types of skin cancer, protection from the sun can go a long way to prevent unnecessary health risks. Moreover, when it comes to sensitive skin types, it provides added protection to prevent reactions or breakouts from exposure to the sun. UPF clothing protects from both UVA and UVB.
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Who is it for?
While UPF clothing is meant for anyone wanting to limit their exposure to ultraviolet rays from the sun, it’s especially helpful for people with sensitive skin types, those who spend more time in direct sunlight, older adults and young children as they may be more prone to adverse effects resulting from prolonged sun exposure