Some may wonder: does sun protective clothing really work? Like – really?
The answer is a resounding “yes!”
Sun protective clothing is hugely valuable for keeping you safe from the sun’s harmful UV rays. However, it’s important to wear sun protective clothing alongside other items like sunscreen and sunglasses, as well as utilize natural sun protection methods like tree shade for maximum protection!
Why is Sun Protective Clothing Necessary?
Even on cloudy days, ultraviolet radiation can still reach your skin. Ultraviolet radiation is the main cause of skin cancer and accelerates skin aging.
While there’s no denying that sun protective clothing is expensive, it’s fantastic at blocking harmful UV rays and protecting against sunburn, premature skin aging, and even skin cancer.
How Does Sun Protective Clothing Work?
Clothing manufacturers have developed tight knit fabric materials that offer more UV protection than standard shirts.
Sun protective clothing is made from tightly woven fabrics that don’t allow ultraviolet rays to penetrate the fabric and reach your skin. Sun protective clothing also comes with a UPF or Ultraviolet Protection Factor, which is a quality rating that measures how much ultraviolet light is prevented from passing through the fabric.
A UPF rating is different than an SPF rating, as UPF is a rating specifically designed for fabrics.
The higher the UPF, the more effective it will be at blocking UV rays.
In addition, many pieces of sun protective clothing offer bonus features like moisture-wicking and ventilation to help keep you cool and comfortable in the heat.
How Can I Know for Sure That Sun Protective Clothing Works?
Well for one, sun protective clothing is listed as one of the Skin Cancer Foundation’s recommended methods for protecting against skin cancer.
Many studies have proven the effectiveness of UPF clothing, and it’s highly recommended by dermatologists and other experts.
However, you can see for yourself the effectiveness of UPF clothing! Just hold one of your standard shirts up to a light source and see how much light filters through. Compare that with a UPF-rated shirt and you’ll likely notice a significant difference. The UPF clothing lets in much less light, protecting your skin against UV rays.
Who Should Wear Sun Protective Clothing?
Sun protective clothing is a great idea for everyone, but some examples of people who might benefits most from UPF clothing include:
- People who work in agriculture
- Outdoor workers like construction workers
- Boating/fishing enthusiasts
- Outdoor athletes or exercise buffs
- Swimmers and surfers
Sun protective clothing not only blocks harmful UV rays, but can provide additional comfort as well. By keeping you cooler, sun protective clothing will increase comfort and help you stay out in the sun longer.
Where to Find Sun Protective Clothing
There are a number of great clothing brands that specialize in sun protective clothing, including well-known brands like Columbia and LL Bean. With tons of sun protective clothing options for women as well as men, and with many sport-focused options (such as sun shirts designed for golf), there’s definitely an option out there for anyone!
Sun protective clothing also comes in a variety of styles and colors to suit your personal needs.
By using sun protective clothing, you can enjoy outdoor activities all year long while protecting yourself from harmful UV rays!
