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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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The Importance of Sun Protection for Children and How Sun Protective Clothing Can Help

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As parents, we want the best for our children, and that includes protecting them from harm. While many parents are diligent about slathering their kids in sunscreen, there’s another aspect of sun protection that’s often overlooked: sun protective clothing.

According to the American Academy of Dermatology, just one blistering sunburn during childhood or adolescence can more than double a person’s chance of developing melanoma later in life. This sobering statistic underscores the importance of taking sun protection seriously, especially for our children.

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Here are a few reasons why sun protective clothing is a valuable tool in protecting our kids from the sun’s harmful rays:

      1. Children’s skin is more vulnerable to sun damage than adult skin

    The American Academy of Dermatology notes that children’s skin is more vulnerable to sun damage than adult skin. Children have thinner skin that is more sensitive to UV radiation, and they spend more time outside than most adults do. This combination of factors makes them more susceptible to sunburn, skin damage, and an increased risk of skin cancer later in life.

        1. Sun protective clothing provides reliable and long-lasting protection

      One of the advantages of sun protective clothing is that it provides reliable and long-lasting protection from the sun’s harmful UV radiation. Unlike sunscreen, which can wear off or be washed away by sweat or water, sun protective clothing remains effective throughout the day. Additionally, you don’t have to worry about reapplying it every two hours, as you do with sunscreen.

      A study published in the Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology found that people who wore sun protective clothing had a significantly lower risk of sunburn than those who used sunscreen alone. This suggests that sun protective clothing is an effective tool for reducing the risk of sunburn and skin damage, especially in children.

       

          1. Sun protective clothing is a convenient and easy option

        Let’s face it: getting kids to sit still long enough to apply sunscreen can be a challenge. Sunscreen can be messy, and kids may not be thrilled about having to sit still for a few minutes while it dries. Sun protective clothing is a convenient and easy option that doesn’t require any additional effort on your part. Simply dress your child in sun protective clothing, and they’re ready to go outside and play.

          1. Sun protective clothing can be stylish and fun

        Gone are the days when sun protective clothing was boring and unattractive. Today, there are a wide variety of sun protective clothing options available for kids that are both stylish and fun. From swimsuits to hats to t-shirts, there’s something for every child’s taste.

         

          1. Sun protective clothing can help establish healthy habits

        When we make sun protection a habit for our children, we’re helping to establish healthy habits that will stay with them for life. By incorporating sun protective clothing into our children’s daily routines, we’re sending a message that protecting our skin from the sun’s harmful rays is an important part of taking care of ourselves. This can help our children grow up with a healthy attitude towards sun protection and reduce their risk of skin cancer later in life.

        In conclusion, sun protective clothing is an important tool in protecting our children from the sun’s harmful rays. By providing reliable, long-lasting protection that’s both convenient and stylish, sun protective clothing can help establish healthy habits and reduce the risk of skin damage and skin cancer later in life. As parents, it’s our responsibility to take sun protection seriously and make it a priority for our children

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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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                  ULTRAVIOLET (UV) LIGHT​ – CAUSES DAMAGE TO YOUR SKIN. YOUR COMPLETE GUIDE (2020)

                  Overview

                  As you may know, sunlight contains ultraviolet (UV) light that carries radiation properties and causes damage to your skin

                  We can divide these rays into three main categories:

                  • UVA – Ultraviolet radiation type A
                  • UVB – Ultraviolet radiation type B
                  • UVC – Ultraviolet radiation type C

                  Each type of rays affects your skin differently and could have dire consequences if you don’t protect yourself.

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                  sun shadow on hand
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                  In this article, we will briefly discuss the nature of UV radiation, how it causes damage to your skin, and the protective measures you can take.

                  What is UV light?

                  Simply put, UV radiation is a form of electromagnetic energy emitted from natural (e.g., sunlight) and artificial sources (e.g., tablets, TV screens).

                  By far, the sun is the most powerful source of UV light that originates from endless reactions of nuclear fusion.Each type of rays affects your skin differently and could have dire consequences if you don’t protect yourself.

                  Depending on the wavelength, we can categorize these into UVA, UVB, and UVC.

                  According to researchers, up to 95% of the UV radiation that reaches the earth is UVA due to its long wavelength. UVB accounts for the remaining radiation.

                  Interestingly, the short waves of UVC prevent it from reaching the earth, which is fortunate since these rays have extremely high energy.

                  UVA
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                  UVB
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                  The damages caused by UV light

                  While UVC is primarily emitted by the sun, tanning beds and tanning lamps mainly emit UVA radiation that can reach up to 12 times the radiation of the sun.

                  Unfortunately, both UVA and UVB cause damage to the skin by inducing genetic mutations in the DNA of cells. Once again, and since UVA has longer wavelengths, it tends to reach the deeper layers of the skin (e.g., dermis), which damages the cells and causes wrinkles.

                  On the other hand, UVB precipitates sunburns by damaging the epidermis (i.e., the outer layer of the skin).
                  Over time, these damages could reach the point of no return, where normal skin cells turn into cancer. What most people are unaware of is that the browning of the skin after exposure to sunlight (i.e., tanning) is the body’s response to minimize the damage of UV radiation. 

                  In other words, the skin produces melanin (skin pigment) to reduce the amount of UV radiation that penetrates the deeper layers. For this reason, individuals with darker skin are less likely to develop complications.

                  INDIVIDUALS WITH DARKER SKIN ARE LESS LIKELY TO DEVELOP SKIN COMPLICATIONS​​​

                  INDIVIDUALS WITH DARKER SKIN ARE LESS LIKELY TO DEVELOP SKIN COMPLICATIONS​​

                  When this process fails to protect the skin, an array of problems arises, including sunburns and skin cancer.

                  The consequences of ignoring UV exposure

                  Unfortunately, people seem to ignore the harmful effects of UV radiation regardless of health warnings and educational campaigns.

                  In a 2012 survey conducted by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), researchers found that 50.1% of all adults aged 18–29 years reported sun-induced skin conditions, such as sunburns. Out of these adults, the Caucasians had the most incidence.

                  With these statistics in mind, the popularity of indoor tanning has not been affected at all. In fact, one study noted that 35% of adults reported being exposed to indoor tanning in the past year. 

                  Staggeringly, researchers estimate that tanning beds alone may add 10,000 cases of melanoma every year.

                  Note: melanoma is a malignant type of skin cancer that will cause approximately 6,850 deaths in the U.S. alone this year.

                  What is UPF?

                  UPF stands for Ultraviolet Protection Factor, which is a measurement used to estimate the effectiveness of sun protective fabrics.

                  In other words, this parameter allows you to predict the amount of UV radiation that penetrates the fabric and reaches the skin.

                  Generally speaking, the UPF rating ranges from 15–50 depending on the level of protection provided by the clothing item. The higher the rating, the better the clothing item is at blocking UV radiation.

                  For instance, a UPF of 50 blocks 49/50 of UV rays, which translates to around 98% of arriving beams.
                  According to the Skin Cancer Foundation’s Seal of Recommendation, a fabric must have at least 30 UPF to protect your skin from the harmful UV radiation.

                  What is SPF?

                  The SPF number usually refers to the duration needed for the skin to redden when exposed to the sun while wearing sunscreen. A skin with a sunscreen (SPF +30), will take 30 times longer to burn compared to not wearing any sunscreen.

                  In general, an SPF of 30 blocks 97% of UVB rays from hitting your skin, whereas an SPF of 50 blocks around 98% of radiation. While this difference might seem insignificant, the number of rays hitting your skin is staggeringly lower when the SPF is even slightly higher.

                  Unfortunately, when people use sunscreens with high SPF, they tend to get a false sense of security, which leads to more skin damage, defeating the purpose of wearing sunscreen.

                  According to the Skin Cancer Foundation’s Seal of Recommendation, sunscreen must have at least 30 SPF (water-resistant) to protect your skin from the harmful UV radiation.

                  How does UPF protect you from UV light

                  As just mentioned, UPF reduces the number of penetrating UV beams, which prevents the process of genetic mutations of skin cells.

                  In simpler terms, these fabrics will act as a shield that reflects UV radiation and protects the dermis.

                  SPF vs UPF

                  SPF VS UPF

                  While UPF estimates the protection fabrics provide, Sun Protection Factor (SPF) primarily refers to the protective properties of sunscreens.

                  SPF differs from UPF in the following ways:

                    • The measured parameter
                      UPF measures the amount of UV radiation that penetrates the fabric to reach the skin.
                      SPF measures the time it takes for the skin to redden under sunlight exposure.
                    • The type of UV radiation
                      UPF accounts for UVA and UVB when calculating the rating.
                      SPF only accounts for UVB unless labeled as broad-spectrum.

                  Takeaway message

                  UV radiation is the leading cause of skin cancer worldwide. The most susceptible group to develop UV-related skin conditions are those with fair skin since there isn’t enough melanin to reflect the radiation. 

                  You can read more about sun-related aging and facts on how sun exposure can cause visible signs of aging that can be difficult or impossible to reverse.

                  Hopefully, this article managed to shed some light on the importance of being aware of UV radiation, the damages it can cause, and how to protect ourselves.

                  If you still have any questions or concerns, please don’t hesitate to share your thoughts in the comment section below or reach out to us by clicking on this link (SAY HELLO).

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                  5 Things You May Not Know About Sun-Related Aging

                  Skin related aging

                  There’s no better way to savor a sunny summer day than a trip to the park or the beach. While the sun’s warmth can be intoxicating, its harmful UV rays can also be damaging. Although skin cancer is the biggest concern, sun exposure can also cause visible signs of aging that can be difficult or impossible to reverse. In this article we will cover some things you may not know about sun-related aging.

                  1. Sun Exposure is Responsible for Nearly All Visible Signs of Aging

                  UV rays cause nearly all visible signs of aging (90%), including fine lines, sunspots and wrinkles. One study found that Japanese women who lived in the sunnier region of the country had poorer skin hydration and longer wrinkles compared to women living in the northern region.

                  Of course, the body ages naturally, but exposure to the sun only accelerates the process.

                  2. The Sun’s Rays Can Penetrate Your Skin Even on Cloudy Days

                  clouds in the sky

                  It’s easy to assume that clouds protect you from the sun’s damaging rays, but that’s not the case. Up to 80% of the sun’s harmful rays still penetrate your skin even on the cloudiest of days.

                  In fact, cloudy days can be even more dangerous than sunny days because you don’t feel the sun’s heat as strongly. When the clouds roll in, it’s important to be diligent about reapplying your sunscreen every two hours to prevent burns and damage.

                  3. The Left Side of Our Bodies Show More Signs of Sun-Related Aging

                  In 2012, a 69-year-old trucker made headlines – not because of his career achievements, but because he was the perfect example of how sun exposure accelerates aging. After driving a delivery truck for 28 years, the left side of his face had clearly more dramatic signs of aging compared to the right side of his face.

                  Even if you don’t spend most of your day driving a truck (or car), the left side of your body will probably show more signs of sun-related aging due to driving.

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                  4. UV Rays Break Down Collagen to Accelerate Aging

                  Part of the reason why sun exposure accelerates your aging is because UV rays break down collagen at a much higher rate than normal.

                  When UV rays reach the middle layer of skin, it can cause an abnormal build-up of elastin. This causes the body to produce enzymes that break down collagen, causing fine lines and wrinkles.

                  The sun’s harmful rays also create free radicals, which only increases the number of collagen-destroying enzymes.

                  5. Sun Exposure Can Cause Uneven Skin Thickness

                  Exposure to UV rays can make the skin thicker or thinner in some areas, which leads to coarse wrinkling and yellow discoloration. Uneven skin thickness can also make your blood vessels thinner, leading to spider veins.

                  One last thing: Sun-related aging can be prevented (mostly). Applying sunscreen every two hours every day can help minimize the aging effects of UV exposure. Sun exposure is also the biggest risk factor for melanoma, giving you yet another reason to wear sunscreen daily.