Living in the Sunshine State means plenty of fun in the sun, but it comes with some risks. Older Floridians have much higher rates of skin cancer, with Florida ranking second highest in the nation for new melanoma cases. Sun-protective clothing companies claim that their products can make a big difference in the number of damaging rays that reach your skin, but are they worth it?

What is UPF?

Sun-Protective clothing manufacturers use UPF to describe the level of protection provided by their specific clothing and accessory items. Ultraviolet Protection Factor (UPF) indicates how much UV radiation penetrates the fabric of an item. For example, a UPF of 30 allows 1/30th (about 3%) of available UV rays to pass through it. If a fabric allows less than 2% of UV rays through it is considered UPF 50. 

Does Sun Protective Clothing Work?

Sun-protective clothing is manufactured from fabrics that have been proven to block the transmission of UV light. The SPF (Sun Protection Factor) of sunscreen relates mostly to the amount of protection from UVB rays.  UVB (Ultraviolet B) rays have a shorter wavelength and are responsible for sunburns, DNA damage, and skin cancer. UVA (Ultraviolet A) rays penetrate the skin on a deeper level causing photoaging, wrinkles, and damage to the immune system.  Sun-protective clothing with a UPF of 30 or higher can provide your skin protection from both types of damaging UV rays. 

How Do I Choose Sun Protective Clothing?

The minimum UPF required for a clothing item to be considered “sun-protective” is 15. However, a fabric must have a UPF of at least 30 to qualify for the Skin Cancer Foundation’s Seal of Approval. When choosing sun-protective clothing, a UPF of 30-49 will give you adequate protection, but a UPF of 50+ is the most ideal. Darker fabrics with denser weaves will provide more protection, as well as clothing items made with polyester or nylon.  

Long Lasting Protection with Authority Home Solutions  

At Authority Home Solutions, we believe that you can enjoy the outdoors without sacrificing comfort and safety. For over ten years we have been supplying Ocala, The Villages, Gainesville, Leesburg, and the surrounding areas with superior storm protection, retractable awnings, and Smartshades. As Florida's #1 awning supplier and installer, we have helped countless homeowners to create outdoor spaces that they can enjoy with cooler temperatures and protection from harsh UV rays and passing rainstorms. Contact us today to schedule a free demonstration.