Everybody, including myMareCo' s Headbands and Gaiters is marketing clothing with a UPF rating! Why is that??

Here are 3 reasons to consider why you may want to consider these garments for protecting yourself against sun damage:

1. Unlike SPF, which only protects for UVB rays, UPF accounts for both UVA and UVB rays.
2. By absorbing or blocking harmful UV radiation, clothing remains one of the most effective forms of protection against sun damage and skin cancer.
3. Sun-protective clothing is the simplest way to stay safe; unlike sunscreen, you never need to reapply!

Everyone needs to think about damaging their skin; however, there are a few of us who may need to pay special attention to their exposure:

1. People with skin that burns, or freckles easily are more vulnerable to UV rays
2. People with darker skin pigmentation indicates the presence of more melanin, a compound that offers UV protection. But darker pigmentation also makes UV damage harder to spot
3. Kids have relatively thin, sensitive skin, and any damage to it at an early age increases the risk of serious problems later in life. 

What you need to know: A fabric must have a UPF of 30 to qualify for The Skin Cancer Foundation’s Seal of Recommendation.

A UPF of 30 to 49 offers very good protection, while UPF 50+ rates as excellent. 

UPF Rating	Protection Category	Effective UV Transmission (%)
15	Minimum	6.7
30	Good	3.3
50+	Excellent	2.0

 

Some terms to learn:

• SPF - Sun Protection Factor
• UVA – Ultraviolet Light “A” (a relatively long wavelength)
• UVB rays - Ultraviolet Light “B” (a relatively short wavelength)
• UPF - Ultraviolet Protection Factor

Enjoy the outdoors with products that will help to protect your skin.  Reminder…. don’t forget about your ears!  My dermatologist told me that she often must treat patients’ ears because of sun damage.  Hint:  wear a headband that covers your ears!

 PS she also recommends a zinc-based sunscreen for your face.