Over the years, the importance of sunscreen has been ingrained in our minds. Not just in the summer, but every day. Dermatologists generally say that wearing sunscreen not only prevents skin cancer, but also protects the skin from sun damage, wrinkles, and other skin problems. If you’re not using sunscreen in your skincare routine, you’re not using sunscreen properly.

However, can only sunscreen protect you from UV rays? No! Your clothes can play some important role when it comes to protecting you from the sun. While we may be aware of the benefits of sunglasses and wide-brimmed hats, you may not know that UPF clothing protects you from the sun simply by wearing it. Below, we’ll take a look at why UPF apparel is so protective and why it’s worth investing in this summer.

What Is UPF Apparel?

The ultraviolet protection factor (UPF) is how we measure the effectiveness of our sunscreen fabrics. This is different but similar to SPF (Sun Protection Factor), which is used to measure the effectiveness of sunscreen.

SPF stands for Sun Protection Factor. It lets us know how long you can be protected from UVB rays before a sunburn occurs. UPF is the metric we use to measure fabrics, clothing, and hats. UPF clothes do help block out the sun, thus protecting the skin. It is especially useful for babies who need to avoid sun exposure and children who refuse to wear sunscreen. You should still wear SPF sunscreen, but this will bring an extra layer of protection.

UPF garments are designed to protect against ultraviolet (UV) rays, and the fabrics used are specially treated to enhance their UV blocking capabilities, often using tight weaves or special dyes. UPF garments create a physical barrier between the skin and the sun’s ultraviolet rays, reducing the amount of radiation reaching the skin.

So, how is a UPF garment different from a normal garment that covers the skin? While you may think that wearing a t-shirt or smock will protect you from the sun, regular clothing has very low UPF protection, and UV rays can easily pass through if you’re outside for long periods of time. While you may not get sunburned like you would if you didn’t wear sunscreen, you’re not as protected from the sun as you might think. UPF apparel is especially important during the summer months as we spend more and more time outdoors. Having an extra layer of protection is ideal, especially if you forgot to reapply your sunscreen.

Benefits of UPF Clothing

UV protection: UPF indicates the extent to which UV radiation is absorbed and blocked by the fabric before it reaches the skin. This could reduce the risk of sunburn, aging and skin cancer, Crumb added. If you’re going out for a while, wear a UPF.

Comfort: Surprisingly, one of the great benefits of wearing UPF clothing is its comfort. UPF garments are often designed with breathable, lightweight fabrics that allow air to circulate and keep you cool and comfortable, even in hot weather. Some even come with materials that dry faster, making them perfect for a day at the beach.

Long-lasting: In general, UPF fabrics are generally more durable than regular clothing. They resist fading for a longer time and retain their protective properties for a long time. Still, you should always read the labels on your clothes to learn how to wash them properly to make them more durable.

Extra Protection: UPF clothing is the perfect companion for summer sunscreen application for ultimate protection.

What to Look for When Buying Upf Apparel

There are a few things to look out for when shopping for UPF clothing to ensure that you are getting quality UPF protection.

Check the UPF rating: It is advisable to purchase clothing with a UPF rating of 50+ in order to provide you with the best coverage.

Fabric type: Not all fabrics are created equal, so when purchasing a UPF, make sure the garment is tightly woven or knitted. However, synthetic fibers such as nylon and polyester are often used in UPF clothing because they themselves block UV rays.

Coverage: Make sure your UPF apparel provides you with adequate coverage and protection. If you plan to spend hours in the scorching sun, it is recommended that you wear UPF clothing that covers most of your skin: long sleeves, a turtlenecked shirt, a wide-brimmed hat, and long pants. While this may sound counterintuitive, UPF fabrics are often breathable and lightweight, keeping you cool on hot days.

Final Thoughts

While UPF clothes are great for summer and another way to protect your skin from the sun, it’s important to emphasize that it’s not a substitute for sunscreen, so remember to wear it every day and often this summer. All in all, UPF apparel is a tool in a sun safety toolkit that ensures skin health, prevents cancer, and promotes healthy aging. Remember, protected skin is the win.