Protecting Yourself from UV Rays: Identifying Quality UV-Protective Apparel
UV protection clothing has become a valuable asset in certain professions and outdoor activities, particularly for those spending long hours in intense sunlight. According to Marion Moers-Carpi, a dermatologist from Munich, such clothing can be beneficial for individuals who require extended sun exposure, such as road construction workers.
The quality of UV protection offered by clothing can vary significantly from fabric to fabric. While every piece of clothing provides some level of protection against UV radiation, a normal white cotton shirt, for example, offers only a UPF (Ultraviolet Protection Factor) of 10, which may not be sufficient for extended sun exposure.
In contrast, UV protection clothing, when rated with UPF, can offer excellent protection against both UVA and UVB rays. The best UV protection clothing standards to look for are garments rated with UPF 50+, which blocks 98% or more of UV radiation. These garments are considered the highest standard and are often labeled as such.
UPF testing resembles sunscreen SPF testing but importantly includes blocking both UVA and UVB rays. Tests are conducted under standardized lab conditions, accounting for fabric weave, color, treatments, and sometimes physical wear. Garments are tested according to established standards such as the American Standard AATCC TM 183, the European Standard EN 13758, and the Australian/New Zealand Standard AS/NZS 4399.
These tests simulate sunlight exposure in controlled environments and measure UV transmission directly through the fabric using spectrophotometers. Care instructions and labeling guidelines ensure consumers understand how to properly wear and maintain garments to preserve UV protection.
UV protection clothing is not only beneficial for professionals but also for those engaging in outdoor activities that involve extended exposure to the sun, such as hiking or sailing. The clothing is light, breathable, and dries quickly, making it suitable for swimming and other outdoor activities.
The Federal Office for Radiation Protection (BfS) recommends UV protection clothing for individuals with sensitive skin to UV radiation, including children and those with very pale, red-haired skin types. When buying UV protection clothing, look for a UPF of 40 or 50 and a mention of the UV standard 801.
It's important to note that other standards like the Australian/New Zealand Standard (AS/NZS 4399:1996) and the European Standard (EN 13758-1) are less stringent as they only test the protective effect in the dry, unstretched new condition. However, the UV standard 801 is the gold standard because the clothing is tested under realistic conditions including when wet, stretched, or washed several times.
By choosing UV protection clothing, you can help reduce the risk of sunburn and skin cancer in certain situations. The Ultraviolet Protection Factor (UPF) measures the level of protection offered by textiles against UV radiation. A higher UPF value indicates better protection against UV radiation, similar to the SPF on sunscreen tubes.
Typically, UV protection clothing is made from tightly woven fabrics such as nylon, polyester, or blended fabrics. By incorporating UV protection clothing into your wardrobe, you can ensure that you're well-equipped to enjoy outdoor activities while protecting your skin from harmful UV rays.
Science and health-and-wellness are intertwined in the development of UV protection clothing, which plays a crucial role in preserving skin health and minimizing risks related to extended sun exposure. Fitness-and-exercise enthusiasts and outdoor activity enthusiasts, such as hikers and sailors, can benefit from such clothing. Nutrition, however, is not directly related to UV protection clothing, but maintaining a balanced diet enriched with vitamins A, C, and E can further promote healthy skin by working alongside UV protection clothing for optimal skin care.
