The Science of Sun Protection: Sun Protective Swimwear

With the increase of vacationing at the beach and water sports over the last century, we have seen a marked change in swimwear ranging from dark wool pantaloons, hats, and shirts to the monokini of the 1970s. As awareness about the damaging effects of the sun’s radiation has grown, there has been a trend to venture back to swimwear that covers more than it exposes. New styles of sun protective swimwear are reminiscent of sportswear with swim shirts or modern day rash guards that provide full coverage of the torso and arms. Swim shorts that offer protection for the legs are also available. These swimwear designs are made snug, not loose nor tight. Olympic swimmers are adopting more skin coverage in their swimsuits, and while their choices are dictated by suits that are technically designed for speed, wearing more fabric is now more fashionable. In addition to physically covering broader expanses of skin, the new sun protective swimwear is made of special fabrics that offer UVR protection rates of up to 98%. Fabric blends like nylon-Lycra allow the swimwear to stretch and recover with ease and offer high levels of comfort and freedom of movement to the wearer. Fabrics are tested by the Australian Radiation Protection and Nuclear Safety Agency, and most reputable manufacturers will provide swimwear at certified UPF (ultraviolet protection factor) ratings of 50+. A tighter weave in these fabrics also worksto block UVR, as do darker colors. The resulting swimwear is protective and breathable, offering the best option for fun in the sun. While sun protective swimwear provides the highest levels of protection from UVR while on the beach, it is important to remember to protect the other exposed parts of your body like your hands, feet, head, and neck. This is where broad-brimmed hats, high SPF sunscreen, and sunglasses will be needed. Always remember to use sunscreen of at least SPF 30 on all exposed parts of your body. Sunglasses also have a rating to indicate to you how well they protect against the sun, so opt for a pair with an EPF of 10, which is the highest rating for sunglasses. Taking Sun Protection Swimwear is the only way you can protect yourself against skin cancer. The threat of the sun’s radiation is very real, but you do not have to become a victim of skin cancer. Learning about how to protect yourself is the first step toward a safer future for your skin.