What is UPF?

UPF stands for Ultraviolet Protection Factor, similar to SPF for sunscreen. While SPF refers to the amount of protection a topical sunscreen offers from UVB rays, the UPF factor describes how much protection a piece of clothing offers from both UVA (skin aging) and UVB (skin burning) rays.

These rays are the leading cause of skin cancer, which is the most common form of cancer worldwide.

  • 1 in 5 Americans will develop skin cancer by the age of 70.
  • More than 2 people die of skin cancer in the U.S. every hour.
  • Having 5 or more sunburns doubles your risk for melanoma.
  • When detected early, the 5-year survival rate for melanoma is 99 percent.

While the stats above are alarming, skin cancer is very preventable and treatable. Having regular visits with your dermatologist, wearing sunscreen, and of course, rocking some sweet High Desert Sunwear gear will put you in the best position to ensure your skin is safe.

Learn more at The Skin Cancer Foundation

Why should I wear UPF clothing?

UPF clothing is specifically engineered to provide maximum protection from UV rays and may be rated from 15 to 50+. The rating refers to the fraction of UV radiation that is able to pass through the material. For example, a shirt with a UPF of 50 lets only 1/50th of the sun’s UV rays penetrate through, offering a formidable shield against damaging UV radiation.

The higher the UPF rating, the greater the sun protection. A UPF factor of 15-20 is considered “good,” allowing only 4.2%-6.7% of ambient UV radiation to penetrate the fabric. A rating of 25, 30, or 35 is considered “very good,” allowing only 4.1%-2.6% through. Factors of 40, 45 and 50 protect from all but about 2.5% of the sun’s UV rays. And anything that allows transmission of less than 2% of UV radiation is labeled 50+.

Of course, any type of clothing will give some amount of sun protection, as you can see when you wear a T-shirt over your bathing suit (generally speaking, a T-shirt offers a UPF factor of about 5, meaning it allows about 20% of the sun’s radiation to pass through).

What else should I know?

UVB Intensity and Risk Year-Round:
UVB intensity fluctuates throughout the year, with the sun's rays being strongest late-morning to mid-afternoon. This risk is particularly high from spring to fall in temperate climates and extends even further in tropical climates. Notably, UVB rays can damage your skin year-round, especially at high altitudes or on reflective surfaces such as snow or ice.

Fabric Color Matters:
The choice of clothing plays a significant role in sun protection. Dark or bright colors absorb UV rays, preventing them from penetrating the skin. As a result, these colors offer better protection compared to lighter shades. Investing in sun protective clothing is a proactive step toward safeguarding your skin against the harmful effects of UV radiation.

Time of Day Matters:
To minimize sun exposure, it's essential to limit outdoor activities during the sun's peak hours, typically between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. This precaution is crucial in all seasons, including winter, and becomes even more critical at higher altitudes.

Impact of Elevation on UV Exposure:
Understanding the impact of elevation is key to sun protection. At high elevations, the atmosphere is thinner and less able to absorb UV radiation. According to the National Institutes of Health, UV levels increase by approximately 4% for every 1000-foot increase in height. For instance, in Denver, known as the "Mile High City," UV radiation is about 20% stronger than at sea level at the same latitude. Skiing at an elevation of 9,000 feet above sea level further amplifies UV exposure to approximately 42% more than at sea level. Venturing into the Rocky Mountains, where peaks exceed 14,000 feet, the UV intensity becomes even more pronounced.

Caution Near Water, Snow, and Sand:
Extra care is needed near water, snow, and sand. These surfaces reflect the sun's damaging rays, significantly increasing the risk of sunburn. Therefore, individuals engaging in activities near these materials should take additional protective measures.

Skin Protection is Vital:
Unprotected exposure to the sun can result in adverse effects such as wrinkling, thinning, and hyperpigmentation of the skin. More critically, UV rays are the primary cause of skin cancer. Therefore, protecting yourself from the sun, especially at higher altitudes, is vital for maintaining skin health.