Understanding the Health Benefits of UPF Swimwear

Let’s face it, global warming is real. Summers are getting longer and hotter. Gone are the days when you feel comfortable in your base tan while surfing, swimming or boating. Coastal cities that used to see a handful of days each year above 90 degrees are now seeing double digit days over 100 degrees. The need to protect your skin from sun damage has never been greater.

Applying sunscreen is no longer an adequate defense against sun damage and increased risk of melanoma. Thankfully, UPF swimwear has emerged as a modern-day warrior against the sun’s harmful ultraviolet rays, offering a blend of style and defense for watermen and women.

That’s why our friends at Lumar Active tapped us to spread the word about sun protection and their sustainably made UPF Swimwear for men and women. Lumar’s high performance swimwear is made from Italian nylon, recycled from ocean plastic, fishing nets and waste fabric. It fits snug, but will not restrict your movement while surfing, paddling, fishing or just lounging.

What Exactly is UPF swimwear?

UPF stands for Ultraviolet Protection Factor, and it’s the rating system used to measure the effectiveness of clothing in blocking out UV radiation. Unlike sunscreen, which is applied to the skin, UPF is built into the fabric of your swimwear, providing a physical barrier between you and the sun. Understanding UPF is key to choosing swimwear that not only looks good but also provides ample protection. UPF Swimwear comes in many forms, women’s rashguards, men’s rashguards, men’s sun shirts and women’s sun shirts.

Swimwear with a UPF rating has been rigorously tested to determine how much UV radiation can penetrate the fabric. For instance, a garment with a UPF of 50 allows just 1/50th of the sun’s UV rays to reach the skin. This means that it can significantly reduce your exposure to UV rays, which can lead to skin damage and increase the risk of skin cancer over time.

The effectiveness of UPF swimwear depends on various factors, including the type of fabric, weave, color, and even the presence of chemical UV absorbers within the material. The higher the UPF number, the greater the level of protection the garment will provide. It’s a simple equation that has a profound impact on your skin’s health.

What Is The Difference Between SPF & UPF?

While UPF and SPF (Sun Protection Factor) both relate to sun protection, they measure different things. SPF applies to sunscreen and indicates how long you can stay in the sun without getting burned compared to unprotected skin. UPF, on the other hand, measures the amount of UV radiation that penetrates fabric and reaches the skin.

It’s important to note that UPF covers both UVA and UVB rays, offering a comprehensive shield against the sun. UVA rays are primarily responsible for premature aging, while UVB rays are linked to sunburn; both can be harmful over time. UPF swimwear, therefore, serves as a critical line of defense, particularly during activities where reapplying sunscreen may be impractical.

Understanding the distinction between UPF and SPF is crucial for anyone who spends time outdoors. While sunscreen is essential for exposed skin, UPF swimwear complements this protection by covering larger areas of the body with a durable, sun-blocking fabric that won’t wash off or require reapplication.

The Top Benefits of Wearing UPF swimwear

The benefits of UPF swimwear extend beyond just reducing the risk of sunburn. By effectively blocking a significant portion of UV rays, men and women’s rashguards also prevent long-term skin damage, such as premature aging and the development of skin cancers. The protective fabric acts as a steadfast guardian, maintaining your skin’s integrity and health.

Moreover, UPF swimwear is designed for longevity. Unlike sunscreen, which degrades over time and with exposure to water, UPF protection is woven into the fabric, ensuring consistent performance throughout the garment’s life.

Another advantage is the convenience that UPF swimwear provides. There’s no need for reapplication every couple of hours, as is necessary with sunscreen. This is particularly beneficial for children, who may be fidgety during sunscreen application, and for those engaging in water sports where sunscreen can easily wash away.

Why UPF Swimwear is a Must for Every Outdoor Enthusiast

For individuals who love the great outdoors, UPF swimwear is more than just a garment—it’s essential gear. It enables you to enjoy your favorite activities, from surfing to hiking, with peace of mind, knowing that your skin is well-protected. It’s a simple solution that fits seamlessly into any outdoor lifestyle, ensuring that your focus remains on the adventure at hand, not the potential skin damage.

UPF swimwear also offers versatility in design, with options available for every type of outdoor enthusiast. Whether you’re looking for full-body coverage or a women’s rash guard to wear over your bikini, there’s a UPF garment to suit your needs. This flexibility allows everyone to find a comfortable and effective solution for sun protection.

Choosing the Right UPF Rating

When shopping for UPF swimwear, the UPF rating is a crucial factor to consider. The ratings typically range from UPF 15 to UPF 50+, with higher numbers indicating better protection. A UPF rating of 25 means that only 1/25th of the sun’s UV rays will penetrate the fabric, while UPF 50+ indicates that less than 1/50th can get through, offering more than 98% UV protection.

It’s essential to look for a UPF rating that suits your needs. If you are particularly fair-skinned or have a history of skin cancer in your family, opting for the highest possible rating, like UPF 50+, would be wise. For others, a UPF of 30 or higher may be sufficient, especially when combined with other forms of sun protection.

Remember that a higher UPF rating doesn’t necessarily mean the garment is heavier or hotter. Advances in fabric technology have made it possible to achieve high UPF protection with lightweight and breathable materials, suitable for even the hottest summer days.

Choosing the Right Fabric for Sun Protection

The fabric of your UPF swimwear plays a significant role in its effectiveness. Some materials are naturally more protective than others. For instance, tightly woven fabrics, like polyester or nylon, are excellent at blocking UV rays. Darker colors and thicker materials can also enhance UV protection.

However, the comfort of the material is also important. When selecting women’s rashguards or men’s rashguards, you’ll want a fabric that’s not only protective but also comfortable to wear for extended periods. Lumar Active swimwear is high performance and sustainably made from Italian nylon recycled from ocean plastic, fishing nets and fabric waste. Their gear provides stretch but maintains the shape of the garment, ensuring a snug fit without being restrictive.

Making Sun-Smart Choices: How To Shop For UPF Swimwear

Choosing the right UPF swimwear is a smart decision that will enhance your outdoor experiences. By understanding UPF ratings, selecting the right materials, ensuring a proper fit, and caring for your swimwear properly, you’ll be well-equipped to take on the sun’s rays safely.

As you prepare for your next sunny adventure, remember that the best UPF swimwear is the one that you’ll want to wear. Find a balance between style, comfort, and protection that suits your lifestyle. With the right UPF swimwear, you can confidently embrace your water adventures, knowing your skin is protected.

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