AN increasing amount of outdoor clothing now carries a UPF rating. What does this rating mean? Why should you care about sun-proof clothing? We provide a quick summary followed by a more in-depth look from several leading dermatology experts.

    1 All fabrics disrupt UV radiation to some degree. Clothing that does the best job carries an Ultraviolet Protection Factor (UPF) value. UPF ratings range from 15 (good) to 50+ (excellent).

    A number of fabrics and textiles in common use today need no further UV-blocking enhancement based on their inherent fiber structure, density of weave, and dye components. Good examples of these fabrics contain full percentages and/or blends of heavy weight natural fibers like cotton, linen and hemp or light-weight synthetics such as polyester, nylon, spandex and polypropylene. Natural or synthetic indigo dyed denim, twill weaves and canvas are also good examples.

    2 Some people have an elevated need for UPF-rated clothing, including:

    * People with fair or sensitive skin

    * Children

    * People who spend a lot of time at high elevation, in equatorial regions or on reflective surfaces (such as snow or water).

    3 Not everyone needs to wear UV-protective clothing to guard against sunburn. People with “average” to darker skin types rarely get sunburn on skin covered by clothing, even if they’re only wearing a T-shirt and shorts. Even so, UPF-rated clothing enhances everyone’s protection against UV-related health risks.

    Q: Is it possible UPF-rated clothing may feel warmer, especially when you’re doing strenuous activities?

    A: Yes, due to its tighter construction and possibly its darker color. Yet today’s modern fabrics — moisture-wicking, quick-drying, highly breathable, engineered for optimal ventilation — make it surprisingly efficient and comfortable to shield skin from UV light while you participate in aerobic outdoor pursuits.

    Q: How does machine-washing affect UPF-rated clothing?

    A: A study paper on the effects of repeated machine-washing of UPF-rated clothing was published in 1998, in Textile Chemist and Colorist, an industry journal.

    The paper’s conclusions assert that “repeated machine-washing (regardless of whether or not the detergent contains an OBA [optical brightening agent, the compound commonly found in household detergents, mainly to “keep whites white”]) does not reduce the UPF rating of a woven or knitted fabric of cotton, polyester, or nylon. On the contrary, UPF ratings are enhanced or remain unchanged by repeated machine-washing up to 20 times.”(SD News)