Soleil Sunwear FAQ

What is UPF? UPF, or Ultraviolet Protection Factor, measures a fabric's effectiveness in blocking ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun. It indicates how much of the sun's UV radiation can penetrate the fabric and reach the skin. UPF ratings typically range from 15 to 50+, with higher ratings indicating greater protection. UPF 50+ clothing, like Soleil Sunwear, blocks at least 98% of UV radiation, providing excellent protection against both UVA and UVB rays.

What is SPF? SPF, or Sun Protection Factor, is a measure of a sunscreen product's effectiveness in protecting against UVB rays, the primary cause of sunburn and skin cancer. SPF indicates how long it takes for skin to redden when using the sunscreen compared to not using it. It does not measure protection against UVA rays. Dermatologists recommend using sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher and applying it generously and frequently, especially for individuals with fair skin or a history of skin cancer.

Why UPF clothing? UPF clothing offers several advantages over sunscreen, including long-lasting protection, convenience, and cost-effectiveness. Unlike sunscreen, which needs to be reapplied every two hours, UPF clothing provides consistent protection throughout the day, even when wet or sweaty. Additionally, UPF clothing reduces the need for chemical exposure and minimizes environmental impact. Research shows that wearing UPF clothing can significantly reduce the risk of skin cancer and premature aging caused by UV radiation.

What is SPF clothing? There is no such thing as SPF clothing. SPF specifically refers to the sun protection factor of sunscreen products, while UPF is used to measure the sun protection of fabrics and clothing. It's essential to look for UPF-rated clothing for comprehensive sun protection against both UVA and UVB rays.

What is the difference between SPF and UPF? SPF and UPF are two different measures of sun protection. SPF measures the effectiveness of sunscreen in protecting against UVB rays, while UPF measures the ability of fabric and clothing to block both UVA and UVB rays. SPF only accounts for UVB protection, while UPF provides broad-spectrum protection against UVA and UVB radiation.

Is UPF clothing safe? Yes, UPF clothing is safe and effective for sun protection. High-quality UPF clothing, like Soleil Sunwear, is made from certified UPF 50+ certified fabric. Unlike some sunscreen products that contain potentially harmful chemicals, UPF clothing provides physical protection against UV radiation without chemical exposure.

How does UPF clothing work? UPF clothing effectively blocks harmful UV radiation from reaching the skin, reducing the risk of sunburn, skin cancer, and premature aging. The UPF rating indicates the percentage of UV radiation blocked by the fabric, with higher ratings providing greater protection. UPF clothing is especially beneficial for individuals with fair skin, a history of skin cancer, or those spending extended periods in the sun. Interested in learning more? Chek out our blog post How Does UV Protective Clothing Work? | Soleil Sunwear.

Is UPF 50+ clothing necessary? Yes, UPF 50+ clothing offers superior protection against UV radiation compared to lower UPF ratings. UPF 50+ clothing blocks at least 98% of UV rays, providing excellent defense against sunburn, skin cancer, and premature aging. Individuals, especially those with fair skin or a history of skin cancer, can benefit significantly from wearing UPF 50+ clothing for comprehensive sun protection. To learn more about the benefits of UV Protective Clothing, read our blog post 5 Reasons to Wear UV Protective Clothing | Soleil Sunwear.

Do I need sunscreen with UPF clothes? While UPF clothing provides excellent protection against UV radiation, it's still advisable to use sunscreen on exposed areas for added protection. Applying sunscreen to uncovered skin areas, such as the face, complements the sun protection provided by UPF clothing, ensuring comprehensive coverage against harmful UV rays.

Do I need sun protection in fall and winter? Yes, UV radiation exposure can occur year-round, even during fall and winter months. While UVB intensity may decrease in colder seasons, UVA radiation remains relatively constant throughout the year and can penetrate clouds and glass. Therefore, wearing UPF clothing and using broad-spectrum sunscreen are essential year-round to protect against UV-related skin damage and skin cancer. Explore our blog to dive deeper into this subject: Do You Need to Wear Sunscreen in the Winter? | Soleil Sunwear.

Does sun protective clothing work? Yes, sun protective clothing, such as UPF-rated garments, is scientifically proven to be effective in blocking harmful UV radiation from reaching the skin. UPF clothing provides a physical barrier against UV rays, reducing the risk of sunburn, skin cancer, and premature aging. Compared to regular clothing, UPF clothing offers superior sun protection and is recommended by dermatologists and skin cancer prevention organizations as part of a comprehensive sun protection strategy.

What are UVA and UVB rays? Ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun consists of two primary types of rays: UVA and UVB. UVA rays have longer wavelengths and penetrate deeper into the skin, contributing to premature aging, wrinkles, and skin cancer development. UVB rays have shorter wavelengths and primarily affect the outer layer of the skin, causing sunburn and increasing the risk of skin cancer. Effective sun protection measures address both UVA and UVB radiation to minimize the risk of UV-related skin damage and health complications. For more in-depth information check out our blog post UVA vs. UVB Rays: Do You Know the Difference? | Soleil Sunwear.

Are all clothes UV protective? Regular clothing may offer some level of UV protection based on fabric type, color, thickness, and weave density, but it often provides insufficient protection, especially when wet or stretched. Some fabrics are UV protective but too thick or cumbersome to be comfortable in the sun. Therefore when seeking UV options, look for items that are designed to be worn in hot weather while still protecting the skin that is most overexposed, such as neck, chest, and hands.

Why choose UPF clothing over regular clothing? UPF clothing offers several advantages over regular clothing. UPF-rated clothing is specifically designed to block UV radiation, providing superior protection against sunburn, skin cancer, and premature aging. Unlike regular clothing, which may offer limited UV protection based on fabric type and thickness, UPF clothing undergoes testing to determine its sun protection properties, ensuring consistent and reliable UV protection.

Can long sleeves keep me cooler? Yes, wearing long sleeves can help keep you cooler in hot and sunny conditions by providing shade and reducing direct sun exposure to the skin. Long-sleeved garments made from lightweight, breathable fabrics allow air circulation and perspiration evaporation, helping regulate body temperature and preventing overheating. Long sleeves made from UPF certified fabric prevent sunburn and skin damage caused by UV radiation and UPF clothing doesn’t need to be reapplied the way sunscreen does.

Do I need sunscreen on my face if I wear a hat? Yes, while wearing a hat provides additional sun protection by shading part of the face and scalp from direct sunlight, sunscreen is still necessary on exposed areas of the face, including the nose, ears, lips, and neck, as well as any areas not covered by the hat. In addition, UV radiation can reflect off surfaces and penetrate unprotected skin, increasing the risk of sunburn, skin cancer, and premature aging.

Can you wash the UPF protection out of clothing? While some fabrics may contain a sun protective additive, most UPF-rated fabrics are engineered to maintain their UV-blocking capabilities throughout the garment's lifespan, even after multiple washings. However, follow the care instructions provided by the manufacturer to preserve the fabric's integrity and ensure long-lasting sun protection performance.

Does UPF clothing lose its effectiveness over time? While UPF clothing is designed to maintain its sun protection properties throughout its lifespan, factors such as fabric wear, stretching, and exposure to harsh chemicals or sunlight may affect its effectiveness over time. To ensure optimal sun protection, you should inspect UPF clothing regularly for signs of wear and tear and replace garments as needed. Following manufacturer care instructions and avoiding harsh laundering practices can help prolong the lifespan and effectiveness of UPF clothing.

Can UPF clothing protect against skin cancer? Yes, UPF clothing provides effective protection against UV radiation, reducing the risk of sunburn, skin cancer, and premature aging. UPF-rated garments block harmful UVA and UVB rays from reaching the skin, providing a physical barrier against UV radiation exposure. When used as part of a comprehensive sun protection strategy, including sunscreen use and seeking shade, UPF clothing can help prevent UV-related skin damage and reduce the risk of skin cancer development.

About Soleil:

What makes Soleil Sunwear special? Customers buy Soleil Sunwear because it protects their skin from the sun while also being fashionable and comfortable. Each item is made from very soft, lightweight UPF 50+ fabric with unique design elements. For example, hoodies are designed with extra large hoods to provide peripheral facial protection and magnet closures cover the neck (one of the most common problem areas for premature aging). While not rated for sun protection, mesh panels under the arms maximize airflow. Soleil Sunwear is committed to superior craftsmanship and ethical production. All apparel is made in Los Angeles.

What is the fabric used in Soleil Sunwear? Soleil Sunwear's fabric was selected for its superior feel and light weight. It is also cool to the touch, so that it can be worn in even the hottest sun. It also offers other benefits, including wrinkle resistance, antimicrobial properties, and quick-drying capabilities, ensuring optimal comfort and performance in various outdoor activities and climates.

Can wearing Soleil Sunwear's UPF 50+ clothing reduce the risk of skin cancer? Research has shown that consistent use of UPF 50+ clothing like Soleil Sunwear can significantly reduce the risk of sunburn, skin cancer, and premature aging caused by UV radiation exposure. Interested in learning more? Our blog post The Sun and Your Skin: Balancing Positive and Negative Effects offers valuable insights.

Is Soleil Sunwear's UPF 50+ clothing suitable for all skin types? Yes, Soleil Sunwear's UPF 50+ clothing is designed to provide effective sun protection for individuals of all skin types, including those with sensitive or fair skin. The high UPF rating ensures comprehensive protection against both UVA and UVB rays, making it an ideal choice for anyone seeking reliable sun protection.