At Mid-County Dermatology located at Missouri Baptist Medical Center, we understand the importance of sun protection for healthy skin. In recent years, UV-protecting clothing has gained popularity, and for a good reason. According to the Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology, these garments provide better protection against UVA rays than most sunscreens. In this article, we'll delve deeper into the benefits of UV-protecting clothing and why you should consider wearing it for optimal sun protection.
The Research Behind UV-Protecting Clothing
A study published in the Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology conducted research on the UVA protection provided by different clothing garments, including regular clothing fabrics, UV protective fabrics, and sunscreens. The results showed that all the tested clothing garments, including regular clothing fabrics like t-shirts and jeans, exhibited broad-spectrum UV protection. The highest protection was found in nylon bathing suits, denim jeans, and dark grey cotton shirts.
Compared to the tested sunscreens, apart from avobenzone, all clothing garments exhibited greater broad-spectrum UV protection. These findings suggest that clothing provides better protection against UVA rays than most sunscreens.
Why UV Protecting Clothing Is A Great Option for Sun Protection
UV-protecting clothing provides a more reliable and convenient option for sun protection. Here are some reasons why:
1. Better Protection
As mentioned earlier, UV-protecting clothing provides better UVA protection than most sunscreens. UVA rays can penetrate deep into the skin and cause premature aging and skin cancer. Wearing UV protective clothing helps to reduce the risk of sunburn, premature aging, and skin cancer.
2. Comfortable and Convenient
UV protective clothing is designed to provide comfort, especially during hot weather. They come in breathable materials that help to wick away sweat, preventing discomfort and irritation. Unlike sunscreen, there is no need to reapply UV protective clothing every two hours, making it a more convenient option for sun protection.
3. Stylish
UV-protecting clothing is now available in a wide range of stylish designs that cater to all fashion preferences. Whether you're at the beach or running errands, there's a UV-protective garment that suits your style. Dr. Feigenbaum prefers Vuori and Rhone long-sleeve UPF shirts when he is at the beach with his family.
How to Choose UV-Protecting Clothing
When choosing UV protective clothing, there are a few factors to consider, including:
1. UPF Rating
UPF (Ultraviolet Protection Factor) is a rating system used to measure the UV protection provided by clothing. The higher the UPF rating, the better the UV protection. Choose clothing with a UPF rating of 50+ for optimal sun protection.
2. Fabric Type
UV protective clothing is made from different materials, including polyester, nylon, and cotton. Polyester and nylon are the most effective in providing UV protection. Cotton is less effective but is more breathable and comfortable.
3. Color
Dark-colored clothing offers better UV protection than light-colored clothing. However, it's worth noting that some light-colored fabrics have been treated with UV-absorbing chemicals that enhance their sun protection properties.
Conclusion
UV-protecting clothing is an excellent option for sun protection. It provides better protection against UVA rays than most sunscreens, is more comfortable and convenient, and is now available in a wide range of stylish designs. When choosing UV protective clothing, consider the UPF rating, fabric type, and color. At Mid-County Dermatology in St. Louis, MO, we recommend UV-protecting clothing to help defend against harmful UV rays. Protect your skin, prevent premature aging, and reduce your risk of skin cancer by investing in UV-protective clothing today.
For more St. Louis dermatology tips, continue to follow our blog! And here is another article to discuss how to choose sun-protective clothing.
If you are looking for a Saint Louis dermatologist, please call us at 314-994-0200 to schedule an appointment with our team!
コメント