A first-of-its-kind study authored by Oregon Health & Science University (OHSU) has found that UPF-protective fabric works significantly better than sunscreen when it comes to its overall UV-protective capacity.
Fabric wear: As a fabric becomes worn or faded, it also becomes less effective at blocking UV light. Fabric stretch: Stretched fabric can lose a significant amount of its UPF, so consider replacing any item that simply fits too tightly.
Most clothing naturally provides some level of UPF protection. It varies depending on the weave and type of of fabric but generally speaking, it's not necessary to wear sunscreen under clothing (unless your clothing is fairly sheer or you are spending a lot of time in direct sunlight).
Our findings suggest that shade and protective clothing may be more effective than sunscreen, as typically used by Americans.
UPF: What it is and why it matters
For example, a UPF 50 fabric blocks 98 percent of the sun's rays and allows two percent (1/50th) to penetrate, thus reducing your exposure risk significantly. What you need to know: A fabric must have a UPF of 50 to qualify for The Skin Cancer Foundation's Seal of Recommendation.
Why You Shouldn't Wear Sunscreen Every Day. If you were to use sunscreen every day, your body would continuously absorb any chemicals it contains, potentially much faster than your body can filter and excrete them.
A first-of-its-kind study authored by Oregon Health & Science University (OHSU) has found that UPF-protective fabric works significantly better than sunscreen when it comes to its overall UV-protective capacity.
The Cancer Council in Australia suggests that darker colors absorb UV rays, which helps block them from your skin. That's why dark blue, black, and dark red are the best colors for sun protection compared to white or pastel colors of the same fabric.
In addition, dark colors offer more protection than light colors. For example, a long-sleeved denim shirt provides an SPF of about 1,700, while a white t-shirt provides an SPF of about 7. In addition, if you're at the beach or pool, keep in mind that dry clothing offers more sun protection than wet clothing.
Key takeaways. It is possible to get a sunburn through clothes, and some fabrics provide more protection than others.
Protect your skin with clothing
Be aware that covering up doesn't block out all UV rays. If you can see light through a fabric, UV rays can get through, too. Long-sleeved shirts, long pants, or long skirts cover the most skin and are the most protective. Dark colors generally provide more protection than light colors.
Eye protection reduces visibility, especially laterally, and fog may occur in certain situations. Face masks and respirators require a greater breathing effort and are often used incorrectly. Additionally, both the gloves and suit reduce dexterity and mobility, and the user has reduced hearing in the suit.
Clothing and sunglasses
Wear clothes and sunglasses that provide sun protection, such as: a wide-brimmed hat that shades the face, neck and ears. a long-sleeved top. trousers or long skirts in close-weave fabrics that do not allow sunlight through.
Of all colours tested, dark blue offered the best levels of UV protection, making it the best colour to wear in the sun. Contrary to the popular belief that they are the coolest colours in the sun, white and yellow were the worst performing colours in terms of UV protection.
The Bedouin's secret is wearing loose-fitting black clothing, especially if it's windy. The loose black clothes heat up the space between the fabric and the skin, promoting an upward air current – like a chimney – and providing cooling relief.
If you are looking for a safe alternative to sunscreen, find a UPF 50+ sun hat. UPF 50+ means that this article of clothing will protect you from over 98% of the sun's UVA and UVB rays.
For some, chemical sunscreens can sting. If you have sensitive skin or frequently react to products, mineral sunscreen might be a better choice. The downside of mineral sunscreens is that they often leave a noticeable white cast, particularly on skin of color. Otherwise, it's a personal choice.
Even with the best sun protective apparel, it won't completely replace the need for sunscreen to apply to exposed areas of skin. The fabric used in UPF clothing is specially designed to block harmful UV rays, providing superior sun protection.
Many cultures developed their own methods to keep their skin from burning, from pastes and lotions derived from ingredients found in nature, to special clothing that warded off the sun. It's fascinating to know how far we've come with sun protection, especially since nowadays, sunscreen is nearly invisible on the skin.
Your fun in the sun can be made much safer if you commit to reapplying sunscreen every two hours. The reason is simple: the sun protection factor (SPF) of sunscreen is only considered effective for 80 minutes to two hours after you first apply it.