What is better – UV clothing or sunscreen?

The simple answer is both; Dr Rakesh Newaj, a dermatologist, goes into detail explaining the protective factors of UV clothing and sunscreen

You can listen to this article below, or by using your favourite podcast player at pod.link/oncologybuddies

Protecting yourself from sun exposure is crucial for reducing the risk of skin cancers and minimising photoaging. 

To help lessen the effects of ultraviolet (UV) rays, infrared light, and visible light, various recommendations are provided. 

UVB rays (makes up only 5% of the UV rays from the sun, but it’s very high energy) are linked to the development of squamous cell carcinoma and basal cell carcinoma. 

UVA rays (about 95% of the UV rays from the sun) penetrate deeper into the skin, potentially leading to early signs of aging and worsening conditions sensitive to sunlight, such as pigmentation issues. The connection between UVA and skin cancer is still under investigation. 

The role of UV rays in melanoma remains unclear. Additionally, visible light and infrared radiation have been found to produce a range of biological effects, including erythema (skin redness), pigmentation changes, thermal injury, and the generation of free radicals. Visible light can also cause indirect DNA damage through the production of reactive oxygen species.

Sunscreen

Sunscreen is an essential tool for safeguarding the skin against harmful ultraviolet (UV) radiation. It contains active ingredients that either absorb or reflect UV rays, providing protection from both UVA and UVB radiation. Some of the newer formulations also protect against visible light and infrared radiation, which can be beneficial for certain skin conditions.

When selecting a sunscreen, the sun protection factor (SPF) rating is crucial. SPF measures the level of protection against UVB rays; generally, the higher the SPF, the better the protection. For example, SPF 15 blocks about 93% of UV rays, while SPF 30 blocks approximately 97%. However, these figures are based on laboratory tests, and real-world effectiveness may be lower. Therefore, it’s advisable to choose a sunscreen with the highest SPF available, ensuring it’s broad-spectrum and, if possible, offers protection against visible and infrared rays as well.

Sunscreen should be applied at least 30 minutes before sun exposure for optimal effectiveness. To achieve maximum protection, a minimum of 2mg/cm² of skin surface should be covered. For instance, roughly six teaspoons or a 30g tube of sunscreen is sufficient to cover the entire body. 

However, considering cost and practicality, it’s advisable to apply a generous layer on the face and other areas exposed to the sun. Applying a second layer can enhance coverage. 

If sunscreen is not applied correctly, the SPF indicated on the label can significantly decrease. For example, applying SPF 30 too thinly may only provide the protection equivalent to SPF 10.

Under normal conditions, most sunscreens remain effective for at least six hours. However, if sweating or exposed to intense sunlight, reapplication every two to three hours is recommended. Foams and sprays are particularly convenient for use on hairy areas. 

UV clothing

UV clothing, designed specifically to protect against harmful ultraviolet (UV) radiation, has gained popularity as a practical solution for sun safety. These garments are crafted from special fabrics that offer a higher ultraviolet protection factor (UPF) rating compared to regular clothing. While typical clothes may block some UV rays, UPF-rated garments are engineered to shield the skin more effectively, reducing the risk of sunburn and long-term skin damage.

The science behind UV clothing lies in the fabric’s composition, weave, and dye. Tightly woven materials or those made with synthetic fibres like polyester or nylon tend to provide better protection. 

Additionally, some manufacturers incorporate chemical treatments that enhance UV resistance. The UPF rating indicates how much UV radiation can penetrate the fabric. For example, a garment with a UPF of 50 allows only 1/50^th of the sun’s UV rays to reach the skin, offering substantial protection.

Wearing UV clothing is particularly beneficial during outdoor activities, such as hiking, swimming, or beach outings, where prolonged sun exposure is likely. Unlike sunscreen, which needs to be reapplied every few hours, UV clothing provides continuous protection if it’s worn correctly. 

Furthermore, it eliminates the hassle of remembering to apply and reapply sunscreen, making it an attractive option for families and individuals alike.

In addition to practical benefits, UV clothing is available in a variety of styles, colours, and fits, catering to different preferences. Many brands now produce fashionable options, ensuring that sun protection doesn’t compromise personal style. 

Overall, incorporating UV clothing into your sun protection strategy is a smart choice for maintaining skin health while enjoying the outdoors.

The best of both

Combining sunscreen with other protective measures, like wearing UV-blocking clothing, hats, and seeking shade, creates a comprehensive sun safety strategy. Also doing outdoor activities before 10am or after 3pm (the sun rays are most intense between these times), is advisable. Ultimately, incorporating both into your daily routine is a vital step in preserving skin health and enjoying outdoor activities safely.

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