UPF vs SPF: Which Offers Better Sun Protection?

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Everything you need to know about sunscreen and UPF clothing
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It’s no secret that sunscreen is a great way to protect your skin from the sun’s rays, but did you know there’s a better method of sun protection? Sun protective clothing, better known as UPF clothing, is more protective (and low-maintenance) than reapplying sunscreen every hour. Unlike sunscreen, UPF clothing blocks harmful, cancer-causing UVA and UVB rays, and there’s no “wrong” way to put on a UPF-certified garment. If you’re ready to protect your skin, keep reading for a complete guide on the differences between SPF and UPF (plus how to choose the proper UPF clothing).

Things You Should Know

  • Sun Protection Factor (SPF) measures the effectiveness of sunscreen, while Ultraviolet Protective Factor (UPF) measures the effectiveness of “sun protective” fabrics.
  • SPF only blocks UVB rays, while UPF protects you from both UVB and UVA rays.
  • Sunscreen isn’t as protective as UPF clothing because most people don’t apply it correctly. UPF blocks more harmful UV rays, and it doesn’t require reapplication.
Section 1 of 3:

SPF vs UPF

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    Sun Protection Factor (SPF) indicates the amount of UV radiation blocked by sunscreen if you apply the recommended amount. [1] Ultraviolet Protection Factor (UPF) is a measurement standard for how much UV light passes through “sun protective” fabric before reaching your skin. [2]
    • The SPF number reflects how long it takes to sunburn wearing sunscreen (compared to not wearing sunscreen).
    • As the SPF number increases, sunburn protection increases, but protection also depends on the sun’s intensity and the amount of sunscreen applied. [3]
    • The UPF rating system works the same as SPF: a higher UPF number means greater sun protection. [4]
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    The 2 basic types of UV radiation (sunlight that causes skin cancer and skin aging) are UVA and UVB rays. UVA is a long-wave radiation that causes wrinkles and premature aging, and UVB is a shortwave radiation that leads to sunburn. [5]
    • Sunscreen doesn’t block UVA rays unless it’s labeled “broad-spectrum.” [6]
    • Understanding the risks of UV exposure can help you reduce damage from UV radiation–a tan isn’t worth melanoma!
    • Most dermatologists recommend SPF 30, which protects you 30 times longer (compared to not wearing sunscreen). [7]
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    Even on cloudy days, you’re exposed to harmful UV rays when you step outside. Reapply sunscreen 15-30 minutes after going into the sun (after your initial application), then follow up every 2 hours for adequate protection. [8]
    • UPF clothing is more low-maintenance than SPF: it’s not greasy and you don’t have to worry about getting sunscreen in your eyes .
    • Sunscreen is water-resistant, not water-proof, so reapply immediately after swimming or sweating. [9]
    • If you’re outside during the middle of the day, reapply sunscreen every 80 minutes (instead of every 2 hours). [10]
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Section 2 of 3:

Choosing UPF Clothes

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    Dark or bright-colored clothes absorb UV rays before they contact your skin, so they’re more protective than light-colored clothing. [11]
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    Fabrics like nylon, polyester, and rayon are typically more protective than natural materials like cotton and hemp. [12]
    • Shiny synthetic fabrics are especially protective because they reflect sunlight.
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    Thicker, densely-knit clothes allow less UV light to pass through. To check if your clothing is sun-safe, hold it up to the light: if you can see through the fabric, choose another garment. [13]
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    Looser clothes are more protective than tight ones because they retain better structure. Over time, tight clothes stretch, loosening their fibers and allowing more UV light to pass through. [14]
    • As fabrics age with wear, they are less protective. Replace clothes that are faded or stretched to ensure adequate UV protection.
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    Some brands include UPF labels on their clothes to indicate the level of UV protection they offer. According to the Skin Cancer Foundation, a UPF of 30-49 offers good protection, while a UPF of 50 provides excellent protection. [15]
    • UPF 50 clothing blocks 98% of UV radiation. [16]
    • Certified UPF clothing typically lasts 2-3 years.
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Section 3 of 3:

Is UPF better than SPF?

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    Dermatologists view sunscreen as the last resort in terms of sun protection because most people don’t apply it correctly. With sunscreen, there’s a high chance of missing a spot or not applying enough product. [17]
    • UPF clothing offers better coverage than using sunscreen alone because it protects more skin, blocks UVA and UVB rays, and doesn’t require reapplication. [18]
    • For the best sun protection, use sunscreen, wear UPF clothing, and stay safe in the sun : rest in the shade and avoid staying outside during “peak hours” (10 AM to 2 PM).
    • Adults need to apply one ounce (about a shot glass full) of sunscreen for their entire body. [19]

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      References

      1. ↑ https://www.fda.gov/about-fda/center-drug-evaluation-and-research-cder/sun-protection-factor-spf
      2. ↑ https://www.ewg.org/sunsafety/tips-sun-clothing.php
      3. ↑ https://www.fda.gov/about-fda/center-drug-evaluation-and-research-cder/sun-protection-factor-spf
      4. ↑ https://www.ewg.org/sunsafety/tips-sun-clothing.php
      5. ↑ https://uihc.org/health-topics/what-difference-between-uva-and-uvb-rays
      6. ↑ https://www.aad.org/public/everyday-care/sun-protection/shade-clothing-sunscreen/sunscreen-faqs
      7. ↑ https://www.aad.org/public/everyday-care/sun-protection/shade-clothing-sunscreen/sunscreen-faqs
      8. ↑ https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/11712033
      9. ↑ https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/wellness-and-prevention/sunscreen-and-your-morning-routine
      1. ↑ https://www.fda.gov/about-fda/center-drug-evaluation-and-research-cder/sun-protection-factor-spf
      2. ↑ https://www.nytimes.com/wirecutter/blog/what-is-upf-clothing
      3. ↑ https://health.clevelandclinic.org/does-sun-protection-clothing-actually-work
      4. ↑ https://health.clevelandclinic.org/does-sun-protection-clothing-actually-work
      5. ↑ https://www.nytimes.com/wirecutter/blog/what-is-upf-clothing
      6. ↑ https://www.nytimes.com/wirecutter/blog/what-is-upf-clothing
      7. ↑ https://www.nytimes.com/wirecutter/blog/what-is-upf-clothing
      8. ↑ https://www.aad.org/public/everyday-care/sun-protection/shade-clothing-sunscreen/sunscreen-faqs
      9. ↑ https://www.ewg.org/sunsafety/tips-sun-clothing.php
      10. ↑ https://www.aad.org/public/everyday-care/sun-protection/shade-clothing-sunscreen/sunscreen-faqs

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