- Garments boasting a UPF rating of 50+ offer unwavering, enduring UV defense that remains steadfast, unlike sunscreen, which can fade or wear off.
- Professionals advise seeking out the Skin Cancer Foundation’s Seal of Approval and opting for darker, densely woven materials that provide greater skin coverage.
- To maximize effectiveness, pair UPF apparel with sunscreen on exposed skin and handle your attire with care to ensure their protective qualities endure.
As the summer sun intensifies, extended outdoor activities lead to heightened sun exposure. While sunscreen is a staple, can sun-protective attire provide superior coverage?
We queried experts to share insights on how sun-protective clothing functions, what to prioritize when shopping, and how to ensure your attire continues to safeguard you.
Dr. Emily Wood, M.D., is a board-certified dermatologist at Westlake Dermatology in Marble Falls and Austin, Texas.
Sun-protective attire encompasses garments specifically crafted with integrated UV-blocking properties to safeguard the skin against harmful ultraviolet (UV) radiation. These items are graded by their Ultraviolet Protection Factor (UPF), which signifies their effectiveness in blocking UV radiation. The higher the UPF rating, the more robust the protection.
Wearing a shirt with a UPF of 50+ provides a similar level of defense as SPF 50+ sunscreen, yet with greater reliability. Unlike sunscreen, which can wear away, clothing offers consistent coverage throughout the day. Many individuals fail to apply sufficient sunscreen or forget to reapply it every two hours, diminishing its efficacy and raising the risk of sunburn, premature aging, and skin cancer.
“Sun-protective clothing retains its protective qualities regardless of water or sweat exposure,” explains Dr. Emily Wood, a board-certified dermatologist. “It offers superior sun protection, particularly when engaging in prolonged outdoor activities, and it’s an excellent choice for keeping active children shielded from the sun.”
Designs have evolved significantly over the years, and style no longer needs to sacrifice functionality. From wide-brimmed hats and light summer dresses to swimwear, shirts, and pants, there’s a plethora of sun-safe options available.
Experts suggest that clothing with a UPF of 50 or above delivers the most effective sun protection. The Skin Cancer Foundation endorses fabrics that meet this standard, with the seal of approval found on products like clothing, hats, and accessories crafted from UV-blocking materials.
Coolibar, one of the first brands to earn this seal, employs a unique fabric construction, color, and weight to block UV rays. Sean Kifer of Coolibar emphasizes the need for durable garments that can withstand repeated washes and exposure to sweat, chlorine, and salt.
Kifer also advises seeking items with darker or more vibrant hues, which absorb more UV rays than light or sheer fabrics. He suggests selecting pieces with tighter weaves and thicker materials, and choosing styles that offer more coverage, such as those with long sleeves, high necklines, or longer hems.
Wood concurs that investing in high-quality UPF-rated attire is crucial: “Many are unaware that a standard t-shirt only offers sun protection equivalent to SPF 5.”
Experts agree that sun-protective clothing is the first line of defense, yet a broad-spectrum sunscreen remains indispensable for complete protection.
“I view sun protection as a comprehensive routine,” remarks Kifer. “Clothing, sunglasses, a hat, and sunscreen for exposed skin offer the best defense.”
“Sunscreen is unnecessary under areas covered by UPF clothing,” says Wood. “I always recommend my patients apply sunscreen before dressing so that they don’t miss any exposed areas that may become vulnerable when clothing shifts or becomes wet.”
She also highlights the importance of sunscreen overlap: “I always apply my sunscreen so that it extends beyond the edges of my sun-protective clothing.”
Proper care is essential for maintaining the optimal performance of sun-protective clothing. Kefir suggests washing garments in cold water with a gentle detergent, avoiding fabric softeners, bleach, or harsh detergents. Line drying or using a low-heat drying cycle is recommended. UPF clothing should never be dry cleaned, as the chemicals can degrade the protective fibers over time.
While quality UPF fabrics should endure multiple seasons, there are signs that a garment may need to be replaced, such as thinning fabric, stretching or sagging, holes, fraying, and excessive pilling.
“If the fabric appears visibly worn or allows light to pass through, it may no longer provide full UPF 50+ protection,” notes Kifer.
