As a dermatologist, one of the most important pieces of advice I give to my patients is to protect their skin from harmful UV rays. UV radiation is a well-known cause of skin cancer, and can also lead to premature aging, wrinkles, and dark spots on the skin. While many people turn to sunscreens to protect their skin, it's important to remember that clothing can also provide a great deal of protection from the sun. In fact, the right clothing can provide even more protection than sunscreen alone. When it comes to sun protection, not all fabrics are created equal. Different types of fabric provide varying levels of protection against UV radiation. For example, a lightweight cotton t-shirt will provide less protection than a heavier, darker-colored shirt made of a tightly woven material like denim or polyester. In general, fabrics that are tightly woven and darker in color provide more protection against the sun. One way to measure a fabric's level of sun protection is through i...
Patient information resource on dermatological conditions and skin care