Protecting Yourself from UV Rays: Identifying Quality Sunscreen Products
Protect Your Skin with UV Protection Clothing
When it comes to shielding yourself from harmful UV radiation, not all clothing is created equal. The Ultraviolet Protection Factor (UPF) indicates the level of protection textiles offer, with a higher UPF value signifying better protection.
Standard testing methods, such as the Australian/New Zealand Standard (AS/NZS 4399:1996) and the European Standard (EN 13758-1), only evaluate the protective effect of clothing items in the dry, unstretched, new condition. However, UV protection clothing offers a UPF of 40 or even 50, and this level of protection cannot be achieved by wearing multiple normal clothing items.
For instance, a normal white cotton shirt has a UPF of only 10, which may not be sufficient for prolonged sun exposure. In contrast, UV protection clothing is typically lightweight, breathable, and dries quickly, making it suitable for swimming.
The UV standard 801 is the gold standard for testing UV protection clothing, as it tests the clothing under realistic conditions including wetness, stretching, and after washing. Brands that meet this standard include JOJU, Coolibar, Outdoor Research, Baleaf, Black Diamond, REI, and Tuga Sunwear.
These brands test their clothing according to recognized standards such as AATCC TM 183 and ensure the UPF protection is durable and integrated into the fabric, not just a surface treatment. While UV Standard 801 is a specific and very strict Japanese testing standard for UV protection textiles, none of the cited sources explicitly state compliance with UV Standard 801. However, these reputable brands meet or exceed equivalent high UPF ratings (e.g., UPF 50+) verified through independent tests and widely recognized American standards.
If you specifically require UV Standard 801 compliance, it is advisable to confirm directly with the manufacturer, as most highlight UPF 50+ certification per American or Australian norms rather than UV Standard 801 by name.
Top UV Protection Clothing Brands
- JOJU offers ultra-lightweight, buttery soft sun shirts with UPF 50+ protection verified by independent testing against American standards. Their products maintain sun protection from the fiber itself, providing lasting defense for outdoor activities.
- Coolibar is known for breathable, soft fabrics infused with zinc oxide that provide UPF 50+ coverage. Their sun-protective clothing balances style and comfort for various uses, including everyday wear and travel.
- Outdoor Research produces highly breathable, UPF 50+ rated tops such as the Astroman Air hoodie designed for active sun protection in hot, sunny conditions.
- Baleaf offers affordable, lightweight, quick-drying sun hoodies with UPF 50+ rating, designed for comfort and movement.
- Black Diamond's Alpenglow Pro Hoody is a top-rated, versatile sun shirt that blocks UV rays effectively, noted for quality and performance under multiple outdoor conditions.
- REI's Sahara Shade Hoodie is a budget-friendly, reliable UPF 50+ sun shirt for outdoor adventure.
- Tuga Sunwear provides UPF 50+ rated swim and sunwear tested to block 98%+ of UVA/UVB rays. Their products are made in the USA with high-quality fabrics ideal for beach and water activities.
For comprehensive UV protection clothing, prioritize brands with independent UPF 50+ testing and verified fabric protection. Confirm UV Standard 801 specifically by contacting brands directly as it is less commonly cited in mainstream apparel information.
Protecting Your Skin
Every piece of clothing offers some protection against UV radiation, but the quality of this protection can vary greatly from fabric to fabric. Dermatologist Marion Moers-Carpi from Munich suggests considering UV protection clothing in such cases. UV protection clothing can also be beneficial in certain professions, such as road construction.
Good protection against sunburn and skin cancer consists of several components. Those exposed to intense sunlight for many hours should consider UV protection clothing. Children and those with very pale, red-haired skin types fall into this category, according to the Federal Office for Radiation Protection (BfS).
- When considering clothing for UV protection, Ultraviolet Protection Factor (UPF) is an essential factor, as higher values indicate better protection against harmful UV radiation.
- Unlike regular clothing, UV protection clothing, such as those from brands like JOJU, Coolibar, Outdoor Research, Baleaf, Black Diamond, REI, and Tuga Sunwear, offer UPF ratings of 40 or more, providing a higher level of sun protection.
- Always opt for UV protection clothing for outdoor activities, as a standard cotton shirt offers only an UPF of 10, which may not be adequate for prolonged sun exposure.
- For comprehensive UV protection, it's essential to choose brands that undergo independent UPF testing and have proven fabric protection, regardless of whether they explicitly comply with UV Standard 801.
