More and more people are becoming aware that over exposure to the sun can have serious consequences for their health. It is known that the ultraviolet rays from the sun can often cause painful sunburn and skin damage, which includes premature aging and skin cancer. The need to use clothing for UV protection is an important defense in the prevention of skin cancer.
There are many people who believe that wearing their normal summer clothing protects the body from UV radiation damage. However, new research from the Morehouse School of Medicine in Atlanta, shows that normal summer clothing may not have sufficient protective qualities to protect the body from the sun’s damaging rays. Clothing for UV protection provided by any fabric depends upon:
* Weave: Tighter weave is better
* Color: Wear darker colors for UV protection. Dark colors absorb more ultraviolet radiation.
* Weight of Fabric: Heavier fabric is better.
* Stretch: Less stretch is better.
* Wetness: Fabrics that stay dry are better. They also allow the skin to breathe.
Using a broad based sunscreen of SPF 30 + (Sun Protective Factor) can help in protecting the exposed parts of the body against both UVB and UVA rays although, in practice, people do not usually apply sufficient amounts of sunscreen or reapply as often as recommended.
Wearing clothing for UV protection with a UPF30 (Ultraviolet Protection Factor) that follows industry standards will protect the wearer against 97% of harmful UV rays. What is the difference between SPF and UPF? SPF is a rating used for sunscreens and UPF is a rating used for clothing. For more information on UV rays please visit: http://www.arpansa.gov.au
It is important to understand that many factors affect the intensity of the sun’s ultraviolet radiation. The season, time of day, cloud cover, smog, shade, the skin’s melanin content (lighter skins have less protection) and geographical latitude. It is also important to have sensible exposure to the sun to synthesize vitamin D within our bodies, not only for bone health, but overall health and well being.
To protect yourself against the sun’s destructive radiation and skin cancer, practice good prevention measures for UV protection.
1. Wear clothing for UV Protection with a certified UPF 30 or over, and that is designed to cover the body, arms and legs.
2. Use a sunscreen with an SPF 30 or over and reapply every two hours or after swimming or perspiring from activity. Surveys have shown that people often do not take enough care to put sunscreen on evenly and sometimes leave out areas such as neck, front of chest, ears, forearms and hands. It is suggested that 1.2oz (35ml) of sunscreen is desirable for an average adult body full coverage.
3. Minimize exposure to the sun when it is at its strongest 10.00am until 2.00pm.
4. Wear a wide brimmed hat and sunglasses that have a certified UPF label.
5. Have your doctor check for sun spots and skin damage once a year or if you notice anything abnormal.
6. Consider using a vitamin D supplement to boost the body’s reserves
Say no to skin cancer. Avoid putting yourself at risk of painful sunburn, skin damage, premature aging and skin cancer. Wear fashionable, stylish certified UPF clothing for UV protection. For more information on sun protective clothing Visit http://www.uv-protective-clothing.com
Author David Gardner
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