SPF or UPF? Which is better, and what's the difference?
When it comes to protecting our skin from the sun, we often hear about SPF (Sun Protection Factor) in sunscreen. However, there is another term that is gaining popularity in the fashion world - UPF (Ultraviolet Protection Factor). While both of these terms are related to sun protection, they refer to different aspects. So, whats the difference between UPF and SPF for clothing. Which is better?
What is UPF?
UPF stands for Ultraviolet Protection Factor, which is a measure of how much UV radiation can penetrate the fabric of clothing. It is similar to the SPF rating system used for sunscreen. The higher the UPF rating of the fabric, the better it is at blocking UV radiation. For example, a fabric with a UPF rating of 50 can block up to 98% of UV radiation.
UPF clothing is specifically designed to protect your skin from the harmful effects of the sun. It is made of tightly woven fabrics that block out UV radiation. Some clothing items may also have chemical additives that further enhance their ability to block UV rays.
What is SPF?
SPF, on the other hand, is a measure of how long it takes for the skin to start burning when exposed to the sun's UVB rays. It is a measure of the effectiveness of sunscreen. For example, if you normally burn after 10 minutes of sun exposure, a sunscreen with SPF 30 will protect you for 30 times longer, or 300 minutes.
SPF is not a measure of protection from UVA rays, which can cause long-term damage to the skin such as premature aging and skin cancer. It is important to look for broad-spectrum sunscreen that protects against both UVA and UVB rays.
What is the difference between UPF and SPF clothing?
The main difference between UPF and SPF clothing is that UPF clothing blocks UV radiation from penetrating the fabric, while SPF sunscreen blocks the UV radiation from damaging the skin. In other words, UPF clothing is a physical barrier, while SPF sunscreen is a chemical barrier.
UPF swimwear and clothing is a great option for individuals who want to protect their skin from the sun without having to apply sunscreen repeatedly. It is especially useful for outdoor activities where the sun is constantly shining, such as hiking, swimming, and fishing.
SPF clothing, on the other hand, is clothing that has been treated with a chemical sunscreen that helps to protect the skin from UV radiation. This type of clothing is usually made from synthetic materials, and the sun protection lasts for a limited amount of time before the clothing needs to be washed or reapplied. It is also not advisable to wear clothing treated with chemicals -for your health, or the health of marine life.
Both UPF and SPF are important for protecting our skin from the harmful effects of the sun. UPF clothing provides a physical barrier against UV radiation, while SPF sunscreen provides a chemical barrier. When it comes to choosing sun-protective clothing, it's essential to look for a high UPF rating (30-50+ is optimal) and broad-spectrum sunscreen for the best protection. With the right protection, you can enjoy your outdoor activities without having to worry about damaging your skin.
