Quần Áo UPF Và Kem Chống Nắng: Giải Pháp Nào Bảo Vệ Da Tốt Hơn?

UPF Clothing vs. Sunscreen: Which Offers Better Skin Protection?

By Dương Vy

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1 - Why Is UPF Clothing More Effective Than Sunscreen?

1.1 - UV Protection Capability

1.2 - Convenience

1.3 - Duration of Effectiveness

1.4 - Comfort

2 - Optimal Solution: Combining UPF Clothing and Sunscreen

 

Do you frequently engage in outdoor activities and seek the best skin protection solution? Research from Oregon Health & Science University (OHSU) shows that clothing with a UPF rating is a better choice than sunscreen. Let's explore these fascinating scientific findings with Columbia!

UPF clothing (or garments rated with UPF) are designed to absorb and disperse UV rays, protecting the skin from sunburn and damage (on covered areas).

To demonstrate that UPF clothing is more effective than sunscreen, scientists compared:

Omni-Shade™ fabric by Columbia Sportswear and Omni-Shade™ Sun Deflector fabric
(Image 1 - Omni-Shade™ fabric and Omni-Shade™ Sun Deflector fabric)

Along with:

  • 2 types of sunscreen samples (SPF 30 and SPF 50).

The study compared 4 types of UPF fabric with 2 types of sunscreen (SPF 30 and SPF 50). The results:

  • UPF clothing blocks 99% of UVB rays, while sunscreen only blocks 76% - 94%.
  • UPF clothing blocks 96% - 98% of UVA rays, while sunscreen only blocks 54% - 82%.
UPF clothing can block 99% of UVB rays

(Image 2 - UPF clothing can block 99% of UVB rays)

UVB rays are the primary cause of skin cancer, while UVA rays are more associated with hyperpigmentation and skin aging.

Dr. Sancy Leachman, Chair of the Department of Dermatology at OHSU and co-author of the study, stated that UVA rays are particularly dangerous because they do not cause skin redness like UVB rays: “So if you use sunscreen but it does not provide adequate protection, your skin may still be damaged without you realizing it, as there are no sunburn signs.”

Additionally, areas such as the head, back of the hands, and feet are the most exposed to UV rays. Sun protection accessories like UPF gloves or UPF neck gaiters are essential.

  • UPF clothing: Simply wear it, no need to reapply multiple times.
  • Sunscreen: Must be applied in sufficient quantity (at least “a cup of sunscreen” to cover the entire body) and reapplied every 2 hours; easily washes off with sweat or swimming.
  • UPF clothing: Maintains sun protection throughout its use.
  • Sunscreen: Effectiveness diminishes over time.
  • UPF clothing: Does not cause greasiness or clog pores. Advanced fabric technology makes UPF clothing cool and breathable, ensuring comfort under the sun.
  • Sunscreen: Can clog pores and requires cleansing with makeup remover.

While UPF clothing and sun protection accessories offer superior protection, this does not mean you can completely skip sunscreen. Some areas, such as the face and neck, cannot be fully covered.

It is necessary to combine UPF clothing and sunscreen for complete skin protection

(Image 3 - Sunscreen is still needed for uncovered areas)

In summary, UPF clothing should serve as the foundation for sun protection, while sunscreen should be used to protect any remaining exposed areas.

We hope this article has helped you better understand “UPF Clothing vs. Sunscreen: Which Offers Better Skin Protection?” Columbia wishes you safe, exciting, and fulfilling outdoor adventures!