The Truth Underneath UPF Swimwear
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When it comes to protecting yourself from the sun, the clothing you wear is just as important as the sunscreen you wear. Choosing a swimsuit with Ultraviolet Protection Factor (UPF) can block intense UV rays from reaching your skin. Keep reading below to find a swimsuit that will keep your skin protected during those hot, sunny days.
What is UPF?
UPF, or Ultraviolet Protection Factor, is a rating system similar to the SPF system used for sunscreen. It measures how much protection certain fabrics provide from UV rays. The higher the number, the better the protection.
According to the Skin Cancer Foundation, “UPF 30 blocks 97 percent of UV radiation, and UPF 50 blocks 98 percent. The highest rating on clothing today is UPF 50+, which blocks 99 percent.”
Who Benefits from UPF?
Everyone benefits from proper UV protection in order to avoid sunburn, or more seriously, skin cancer. People who particularly benefit from good UPF clothing are children and older adults, sun-sensitive individuals, and individuals taking certain medications..
UV radiation is also stronger at higher altitudes, near the equator, in the snow, and – you guessed it – in the water. That’s why having a swimsuit with UPF is especially important.
Which Fabrics Provide UPF?
There are a variety of fabrics used in swimsuits today. Some fabrics are chosen because of their durability, others because of comfort, and still others because of style. In addition to those benefits, many fabrics also offer UPF protection. Listed below are fabrics common in swimsuits and their UPF protection rating.
Polyester has one of the highest UPF ratings of any man-made or natural fibers found in clothing. Nylon has a similarly high UPF rating, but its UV resistance is not nearly as long-lasting. Frequent UV exposure can cause nylon to fade quickly, so don’t expect your nylon swimsuits to have a strong UPF rating after more than one season. Elastane, like Lycra or Spandex, and other similar synthetic materials also offer a strong UPF rating. Wool and cotton are uncommon swimsuit materials, but natural fibers are occasionally found in swimwear these days thanks to the recent push for more sustainable clothing options. Wool has a slightly lower UPF rating than the materials listed above, and cotton has a significantly lower UPF rating.
What Other Considerations Affect UPF?
The fabric material is the most important factor when determining UPF, but it isn’t the only factor. The color and weave of the material will also make a difference in the UPF rating. Tightly woven and darkly colored clothing will give more protection than light-weight, loosely-woven, and lightly-colored garments. For example, a lightweight, white linen sundress is great at keeping you cool during summer months, but not great at protecting your skin from UV rays. On the other hand, dark, denim jeans will keep the UV rays from getting to your skin. Any darker fabric will reflect and repel the sunlight, giving you more sun protection. However, darker, thicker clothing isn’t always ideal during hot summer months.
Wear is also important when factoring UPF. As mentioned above, some materials lose their UPF resistance quickly with frequent exposure to the sun. Gentle care for your swimsuit may lengthen the lifespan of the material; handwashing in cold water and laying flat on a towel to dry is the best way to clean your swimsuit. Most swimsuits’ UPF resistance will only last one season. It’s a great excuse to stay in style and buy a new swimsuit each year!
Conclusion
Ultimately, the best way to choose a swimsuit that offers UV protection is to check the UPF rating if available. The Skin Cancer Foundation recommends wearing clothing with UPF of 30+ for adequate protection or UPF 50+ for excellent protection. Ideally, your swimsuit will have a UPF 50+ rating. Check out our collection of clothing with UPF sun protection.