Quick Definition
The UV Protection Factor (UPF) measures the extent to which UV radiation can infiltrate a fabric and contact the skin.
The UPF rating is similar to the SPF rating used in sunscreens, but instead of measuring the amount of time a person can spend in the sun before getting sunburned, it measures the amount of UV radiation blocked by the fabric.
Fabrics with a higher UPF rating provide better protection against harmful UV rays. For example, a fabric with a UPF rating of 50 will block out 98% of UV radiation, while a fabric with a UPF rating of 25 will block out only 96% of UV radiation.
A variety of factors such as fabric color, fiber type, and weave can impact UPF ratings. Fabrics such as polyester and nylon inherently have a higher UPF rating due to their tight weave, while other fabrics may necessitate specific treatments or coatings to improve their UPF rating.
Wearing clothes with a high UPF rating can help safeguard the skin against the detrimental effects of UV radiation, including sunburn, premature aging, and a heightened risk of skin cancer.
Glossariz
Chinmoy Sarker
Did You Know?
Fun fact about Textile
Silk was first developed in China over 5,000 years ago and was initially reserved for royalty and nobility.
