Can UV Rays Go Through Clothes?
Ultraviolet (UV) light is part of the sun’s light spectrum. It is invisible to the human eye and is divided into three types: UVA, UVB, and UVC. Excess exposure to UV rays can cause sunburn, skin cancer, and other skin conditions.
Most clothes provide some protection from UV rays but the level of protection depends on the type and thickness of the material.
Types of UV Protection
- UPF stands for Ultraviolet Protection Factor. UPF ratings from 15 to 50+ indicate the amount of UV radiation your clothing blocks.
- SPF stands for Sun Protection Factor. The SPF rating of a fabric is based on its capacity to block both UVA and UVB rays.
UV Rays and Clothing
The majority of clothing, even thin fabrics, will offer some level of UV protection, except for some man made fibres like nylon, spandex, and polyester which may not provide guarded. The following factors will determine how much protection your clothes provide against UV:
- The colour of the material.
- The fabric type.
- The construction of the material.
- The tightness of the weave.
- Whether the fabric is wet or dry.
- The type and intensity of UV rays.
Darker fabrics absorb more UV rays than lighter ones, making them more protective. However, lighter shades such as white can still offer some protection. Fabrics that are thick, tight, and made of sun-protective fabrics like linen and rayon can offer the most protection. Wearing a waterproof fabric can also help protect against UV rays.
In conclusion, while most clothes block at least some UV rays, the level of protection depends on a variety of factors. For maximum protection, it’s important to wear protective clothes and always apply sunscreen when outdoors.