Our Sun Protection Superhero: Clothing

Did you know that wearing sun protective clothing is equally as important as wearing sunscreen?

Sun-Blocking Fabrics

Some shirts, pants, hats, and swimwear have a special rating called UPF (Ultraviolet Protection Factor). UPF clothing helps block those sneaky UVA and UVB rays from getting to your skin. It’s like shade you can wear! An ideal UPF rating for clothing is 50+, while UPF 15 is considered a minimum level of protection

Recommendations

Long sleeves aren't just for winter: lightweight long-sleeves or swim shirts keep your arms and body protected while still staying cool.

Hats = Face & Neck Shield: a hat with a wide brim or even a comfy baseball cap can protect your face, ears, and neck.

Color Matters: darker (such as black/blue/red) or brighter colors (such as neon) can block more UV than super-light/pale ones (such as a white t-shirt).

Fabric Density: tightly woven fabrics offer more protection. Hold fabric up to the light and the less you can see through it, the more protective it is.

Looser is Better: tight clothes can stretch, reducing the level of protection.

Check the Label: look for UPF ratings on the tag. Many more brands are displaying this important rating.

Whether you’re swimming, skating, or just hanging out, your outfit can keep you cool and safe. So gear up and keep having fun! Smart style never goes out of season.