PROTECTING OUR HEALTH BY WEARING SUN PROTECTION CLOTHING

instances sunscreen lotions are applied too thinly. This can result in not giving our skin sufficient
protection, in accordance with the available stated SPF rating. Another factor is that again in many
cases, re-application is neglected. It could be argued that it was these factors that helped influence
Australian researchers in developing the initial fabric testing procedures related to UV transmission and
the creation of a sun protection clothing UPF rating system in the 1990s, which was subsequently
voluntarily adopted by clothing manufacturers. It is a sequence of events that demonstrates the
importance attached to the issues surrounding the need for awareness regarding protection from the
sun and UV rays.
All fabrics in various manners can impact on the transmission of UV radiation, a statement that could be
misinterpreted, is that “fabrics absorb UV rays.” Any impression that a fabric has the ability to literally
“soak-up” UV rays is misguided. During the interaction between ultraviolet radiation and sun protection
clothing, the energy generated by UV rays is altered by being converted into heat, which renders the
majority of rays harmless. It is realistic that some clothing garments are more effective than others,
which can be influenced by factors like dyes, garment construction and fabric treatments.
Clothing construction and child protection:
When considering the construction of sun protection clothing; the density and tight construction of the
weave or knitting can minimize the space between the yarns. This, in turn, reduces the volume of UV
light able to pass through them, with thicker fabrics helping in the reduction of UV transmission. In
certain instances, vents are utilised to boost the circulation of air in some tightly constructed UPF-rated
clothing, which also has a cooling effect on the wearer. Thicker fabrics also help reduce UV transmission,
with sun protection clothing being accepted as a reliable degree of safety for children, especially those
who do not accept sunscreen lotions.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) in the USA, report that the benefits for children
who wear sun protection clothing are long term. By sustaining only a minimal number of serious
sunburns, the risk of a child developing skin cancer later in their life, is increased.