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The Difference Between Sun Protective Clothing and Regular Clothing: Why it Matters

woman upf +50 long sleeve t-shirt

Sun protection is an essential part of any outdoor activity. While sunscreen is an obvious first step, many people don’t realize that the clothing they wear can also play a crucial role in protecting them from the sun’s harmful UV rays. But not all clothing is created equal when it comes to sun protection. In this blog post, we’ll discuss the difference between sun protective clothing and regular clothing, and why it matters for your skin’s health.

 

What is Sun Protective Clothing?

Sun protective clothing is designed to provide a higher level of protection from the sun’s UV radiation than regular clothing. This is achieved through a variety of means, such as using specialized fabrics, adding sun-blocking agents during the manufacturing process, or creating tighter weaves that block out more UV rays.

 

One of the key factors that sets sun protective clothing apart from regular clothing is its Ultraviolet Protection Factor (UPF) rating. This rating system measures how much UV radiation can penetrate the fabric and reach the skin. A higher UPF rating indicates a higher level of sun protection, with a UPF of 50 offering the highest level of protection by blocking out 98% of UV radiation.

 

Why Regular Clothing is Not Enough

While regular clothing can offer some degree of protection from the sun, it is typically not designed with sun protection in mind. Most fabrics allow some UV radiation to penetrate through, which can leave the skin vulnerable to damage.

For example, a white cotton t-shirt typically has a UPF rating of around 5, which means that 20% of UV radiation can penetrate the fabric and reach the skin. This level of protection is not enough to prevent sunburn, let alone the long-term damage that can lead to skin cancer and premature aging.

In addition, regular clothing can also become less effective at protecting the skin over time, as the fabric wears down and loses its ability to block UV radiation.

 

The Benefits of Sun Protective Clothing

The benefits of sun protective clothing are numerous, and extend beyond simply preventing sunburn. Here are a few key reasons why it matters:

  • Sun protective clothing can help prevent skin cancer: Skin cancer is the most common type of cancer in the United States, and exposure to UV radiation is a major risk factor. Sun protective clothing can help reduce the risk of skin cancer by blocking out harmful UV rays.

  • Sun protective clothing can prevent premature aging: Exposure to the sun can cause wrinkles, age spots, and other signs of premature aging. Sun protective clothing can help prevent these effects by blocking out UV radiation and reducing the amount of damage done to the skin.

  • Sun protective clothing can be more comfortable: Some sun protective clothing is made from lightweight, breathable fabrics that can help keep you cool and comfortable in hot weather. This can make it easier to enjoy outdoor activities without worrying about sunburn or heat exhaustion.

Choosing the Right Sun Protective Clothing

When shopping for sun protective clothing, there are a few key things to keep in mind. First, look for clothing with a high UPF rating, ideally 50 or above. Second, consider the fabric and construction of the clothing. Some fabrics are better at blocking UV radiation than others, and tighter weaves can offer better protection than looser weaves. Third, think about the fit and style of the clothing. Sun protective clothing doesn’t have to be bulky or unattractive – there are many stylish options available that offer a high level of sun protection.

 

Conclusion

Sun protective clothing is an important part of any sun protection regimen. While regular clothing can offer some degree of protection, it is typically not enough to fully protect the skin from UV radiation. By choosing sun protective clothing with a high UPF rating, specialized fabrics, and a comfortable fit, you can enjoy outdoor activities while reducing your risk of skin cancer and premature aging.

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The Link Between Vitamin D and Sun Exposure: Balancing Benefits and Risks

vitamin d

vitamin d

Vitamin D is an essential nutrient that plays a crucial role in our overall health and well-being. It is involved in various biological processes, including bone health, immune function, and mood regulation. One of the best sources of vitamin D is the sun. When our skin is exposed to the sun’s ultraviolet (UV) rays, it produces vitamin D.

However, excessive sun exposure, especially when it leads to sunburn, is a known risk factor for skin cancer, including basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and melanoma. With this in mind, it’s important to protect ourselves from the sun’s harmful effects. To do so, we can wear sun-protective clothing, which comes in a variety of styles and materials, ranging from lightweight, breathable fabrics to more substantial options like hats, long-sleeved shirts, and pants. This clothing is designed to block out the sun’s harmful rays, keeping our skin safe and protected.

While sun-protective clothing is an essential tool for preventing sun damage, it’s important to remember that it can also impact our body’s ability to produce vitamin D. Our skin needs exposure to the sun’s UVB rays to produce vitamin D, but clothing can block these rays from reaching our skin. As a result, it’s recommended to get moderate sun exposure, especially in the early morning or late afternoon when the sun’s rays are less intense.

To ensure that you’re getting enough vitamin D while protecting yourself from the harmful effects of the sun, it’s recommended to get short periods of sun exposure and to supplement your diet with vitamin D-rich foods or supplements. Foods like fatty fish, egg yolks, and fortified dairy products are good sources of vitamin D. Taking supplements is also an option, but it’s important to talk to a healthcare provider before starting any new supplements.


Several studies have suggested that vitamin D may have a protective effect against certain types of cancer, including breast, prostate, and colorectal cancer. Researchers believe that vitamin D’s ability to regulate cell growth and division may help prevent cancer development and progression. However, excessive sun exposure is a risk factor for skin cancer, and it’s important to balance the potential benefits of vitamin D with the risks of sun exposure.


In conclusion, the link between vitamin D and sun exposure is complex, and it’s important to strike a balance between getting enough vitamin D and protecting ourselves from the sun’s harmful effects. Sun-protective clothing and sunscreen are essential tools for preventing sun damage, and short periods of sun exposure can help ensure our bodies are producing enough vitamin D to support our health. By following these guidelines, we can keep our skin safe and healthy while reaping the benefits of vitamin D.


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5 Reasons to Invest in Sun Protective Clothing this Summer

Summer is just around the corner, and with warmer weather comes the increased risk of sun damage to our skin. While most of us know to apply sunscreen and seek shade during peak hours of sun exposure, many of us overlook an essential tool for sun protection: sun protective clothing.

At our sun protective clothing brand, we specialize in long sleeve t-shirts with high UPF ratings that provide superior sun protection for outdoor activities. Here are five reasons why investing in sun protective clothing is a smart choice for your health and well-being this summer:

      1. Sun Protective Clothing Offers More Comprehensive Protection Than Sunscreen Alone

    While sunscreen is an essential part of any sun protection strategy, it’s important to note that it’s not a foolproof solution. Sunscreen can wear off or be missed during application, leaving areas of skin vulnerable to sun damage. Sun protective clothing, on the other hand, covers the majority of the skin, blocking up to 98% of UV radiation without the need for reapplication.

    In fact, a study published in the Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology found that wearing sun protective clothing can significantly reduce the risk of sunburn and sun-related skin damage, even in individuals who regularly use sunscreen.

        1. Sun Protective Clothing Provides Better Protection for Sensitive Skin

      If you have sensitive skin that is easily irritated by sunscreen, sun protective clothing can be a game-changer. Unlike sunscreen, which can cause rashes or breakouts, sun protective clothing is made from lightweight, breathable fabrics that are gentle on the skin and don’t require any chemical application.

      In addition, sun protective clothing is ideal for individuals with skin conditions like eczema, psoriasis, or rosacea, as it provides an extra layer of protection against the sun’s harmful rays that can exacerbate these conditions.

          1. Sun Protective Clothing is Convenient and Easy to Wear

        Unlike sunscreen, which needs to be reapplied every two hours or after swimming or sweating, sun protective clothing requires no special maintenance or reapplication. Simply slip on a sun protective shirt and go about your day knowing that you’re protected from the sun’s harmful rays.

        Sun protective clothing is also versatile, making it perfect for a wide range of outdoor activities, from hiking and biking to swimming and surfing. With a wide range of styles and colors to choose from, you’re sure to find a sun protective shirt that fits your personal style and needs.

            1. Sun Protective Clothing is a Smart Investment for Your Health

          It’s no secret that sun damage can lead to a variety of health problems, from skin cancer and premature aging to eye damage and immune system suppression. In fact, according to the Skin Cancer Foundation, one in five Americans will develop skin cancer in their lifetime, making it the most common form of cancer in the United States.

          By investing in sun protective clothing, you’re taking a proactive step towards reducing your risk of skin cancer and other sun-related health problems. And because sun protective clothing is durable and long-lasting, you’ll save money in the long run compared to constantly buying and applying sunscreen.

              1. Sun Protective Clothing is a Fashionable and Functional Choice

            Finally, it’s worth noting that sun protective clothing is not only functional but fashionable as well. With a wide range of colors, styles, and designs to choose from, sun protective clothing is a great way to stay on-trend while also keeping your skin safe from the sun.

            And because sun protective clothing is often made from moisture-wicking and breathable materials, it can also help keep you cool and comfortable during hot summer days.

            In conclusion, investing in sun protective clothing is a smart choice for anyone who spends time outdoors during the summer months. With its comprehensive protection, convenience, and health benefits

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            1.5 kid snowboarding better than his dad

            Ainis on snowboard! – you can see on instagram.

            Our older son Ąžuolas (in english – Oak) always wants to compete with others: younger brother, friends, spider man, basketball team Žalgiris, Blippi and, off course, father.

            – Daddy, when will I ride a bike faster than you?
            – I don’t know, son, maybe when you will be able to ride a bigger bike with bigger wheels…when you will grow up..
            – When will it be? – he still wants to know exact date!
            – Maybe when you will be 14-16 years old..

            But today I started to feel, that in some things they might be just better already now! When I saw my 1,5 years old son going with snowboard, I thought – he is already snowboarding better than I do! 🤘🤘🤘

            Have you ever noticed anything, where your kids are better than you? 😂

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            baby, let’s go on a date!

            Action in the bedroom at 00:30 I sleep with a little one who starts to distract, wake up and look for a mom. And Mom somewhere else: maybe sitting in her work, maybe sleeping brother, or maybe sleeping with a big one..

            in any way, I try to hiss, shout and otherwise cause “white noise” to just keep the child awake and continue to dive into dreams.

            It’s like it’s going to work! AUREKA! I’m turning on my side and suddenly I see two eyes in the dark 👀 looking at me! The heart ❤️ in heels, the whole body freezes and already wants to release fists to work!

            – baby, let’s go on a date! – quietly hears from a woman kneeling at the bed.
            – You’re kidding?!?

            P.s. Don’t forget to surprise your second halves with dates, no matter when they are: in the middle of the night or in the morning, in the middle of the day, just as the sun is in the sun!

            In the photo, my conc. with whom I stayed faithfully to continue to sleep, and she went further into her work.. ❤️

            #fatherandson #sleep #dreams #fatheroftwo #night #miegas #pasimatymas #lockdown #baltastriukšmas #joinoakcrew