June 2024 Edition

Family & Consumer Sciences
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Sun Protection Clothing
 

The sun provides energy and visible light that are necessary for our survival. However, what we don’t see are the harmful ultraviolet (UV) light waves that can damage out skin. Sunscreen, when properly applied, can protect our skin from these rays for a certain amount of time based on its SPF (Sun Protection Factor). In addition to sunscreen, our clothing can provide significant protection — and this rating is called the UPF (Ultraviolet Protection Factor). Clothing’s UPF is based on how the fabric is made or if it is treated with a special finish that deflects UV rays.

UPF ratings may be included on the garment label or tag, and these numbers relate to the percentage of available UV radiation that can pass through the garment:

• 50+ UPF = Excellent protection (less than 2% of UV rays can pass through clothing)
• 30 UPF = Good protection (about 3% of UV rays can pass through clothing)
• 15 UPF = Minimum protection (about 7% of UV rays can pass through clothing)

In addition to the UPF rating, consider these other clothing characteristics:

• Color: Believe it or not, darker clothing and vivid-colored clothing offers more protection than light or white clothing because darker colors absorb more UV rays, preventing them from passing through to the wearer. Put in perspective, a white t-shirt has a 5 UPF (about 20% of UV rays can pass through clothing).
• Fabric Construction: Look for denser, or more tightly woven or knit, fabrics that limit the amount of light that can pass through.
• Fiber Content: Garments made with synthetic fibers such as polyester or nylon are referred because they are more likely to reflect UV rays, whereas untreated natural fibers — such as cotton — absorb UV rays.
• Fit: Avoid clothing that is too tight or that stretches, as the gaps in the fabric may allow the UV rays to pass through.

Wet clothing offers less protection, therefore it is beneficial to have a change of clothes. Clothing created or treated to offer sun protection may become less effective over time because of frequent wearing and washing. Follow the care label’s laundering instructions for best results. If the care label is illegible, try these basic tips:

• Rinse UPF bathing suits after each use.
• Wash in cool water, by hand, or on a delicate machine cycle.
• Use mild detergent.
• Dry on low or air dry (avoid direct sunlight).

  Source: Jeanne Badgett, Senior Extension Associate Clothing, Textiles, and Household Equipment

 

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