Sun exposure is the leading cause of photo-aging and skin cancer. According to the American Academy of Dermatology, 80 percent of a person's lifetime sun exposure is experienced before 18 years of age. Minimizing overall sun exposure helps, as well as taking measures to protect the skin against the effects of ultraviolet rays. Sunscreen clothing can offer extra sun protection when used in addition to other protective measures such as sunscreen. Determining whether this type of clothing is worth the investment depends upon your level of outdoor exposure.
Types of Fabric
Sunscreen clothing is made of tightly knit fabrics to shield the skin from ultraviolet rays. The American Academy of Dermatology explains sun-protective clothing is derived from synthetic materials such as polyester and nylon. Sunscreen clothing for water sports tends to hug the body so that the clothing does not weigh you down upon water impact. Sunscreen clothing designed for other activities is generally loose-fitting.
UPF Protection
Another feature of sunscreen clothing is its SPF, or UPF, or UV protection factor. The Mayo Clinic website explains that sun-protective clothing companies add chemicals during the manufacturing process that ward off sun rays when worn. The chemicals absorb ultraviolet rays, trapping them within the fabric. According to the Mayo Clinic, UPF amounts range from 15 to 50. Some fabrics are labeled as "SPF 50+", and tend to cost the most. The Mayo Clinic states that such clothing offers close to the same protection as UPF 50 versions.
Fabric Care
The Mayo Clinic points out that the effectiveness of sun-protective clothing decreases after repeated use. You will need to replace the clothing once it starts stretching and pulling throughout the fabric. Use your washer's gentle cycle or hand wash the clothes to help prevent stretching. Also hang the clothes to dry. According to the Mayo Clinic, sunscreen clothing with a UPF of 40 or higher tends to last longer.
Benefits
Sunscreen clothing with UPF gives your body added protection against the sun. Sun-protective clothes are especially beneficial if you spend a lot of time outdoors, particularly in the water, wear sunscreen can wash off over time. The American Academy of Dermatology reports that sunscreen clothing with at least a UPF of 30 can block up to 98 percent of ultraviolet rays.
Considerations
Although sunscreen clothing adds extra protection against ultraviolet rays, there are other steps you can take to protect yourself. The Mayo Clinic advises against outdoor activities between the hours of 10 a.m and 4 p.m., as ultraviolet rays are strongest. Wear sunscreen daily and reapply when you sweat or get wet. Sunglasses protect the eyes from ultraviolet rays, and hats help protect the head and face. The Mayo Clinic also suggests wearing dark-colored clothing when outdoors, because sunlight tends to reflect ultraviolet rays.
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