Sun protection - Clothing

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The design of a garment is most important for sun protection and it should cover as much of the skin as possible. Shirts and blouses with collars and long sleeves, and long trousers and skirts offer the best protection. However, in some circumstances, elbow-length sleeves and knee-length shorts are more appropriate and offer an acceptable compromise.

When choosing a garment for sun protection, the most important considerations are:
the design (the amount of skin coverage)
the closeness of the weave
comfort (while dark colours offer more protection, they also absorb heat and can be less comfortable in hot weather)

Tests of different fabrics show that about two thirds of cotton and cotton-polyester fabrics give 95% protection against ultraviolet radiation. The tightness of the fabric's weave most affects the amount of ultraviolet radiation transmitted. Dark colours give more protection than light colours.

The Ultraviolet Protection Factor (UPF) rates the sun protectiveness of fabrics and clothing. The UPF rating of a garment may be lower when it is stretched or wet.

The UPF rating only relates to the fabric not the design of the garment, which can affect its sun protectiveness.

Fabrics and clothing without a UPF rating are not necessarily less protective than those with a rating. However, buying rated fabric or clothing does take the guess work out of assessing the weave's sun protectiveness. Of course, you will still need to consider the design and comfort factors.

UPF classification system

UVR protection	% UVR transmission	UPF ratings
Good	6.7 - 4.2	15, 20
Very good	4.1 - 2.6	25, 30, 35
Excellent	< 2.5	40, 45, 50, 50+

For more information contact the Cancer Council Helpline 13 11 20