Sun Block Clothing for UV Protection
Skin cancer is one of the dreadful medical conditions that could be experienced by a person from overexposure to the sun, a natural source of ultraviolet rays. To prevent this disease from occurring, it would be more preferred not to expose oneself during hours of a hot sunny day. However, it may not be avoidable to expose oneself, as some people prefer to have a natural tan. Likewise, some jobs would require some individuals to go out in the fields. It is better then to protect the skin from destructive sun's rays by applying sunscreen. Wearing of sun block clothing can also bring protection from ultraviolet radiation.
Sun block clothing or sun protective clothing is one of the inventions that can be used to shield the skin from the UV rays if overexposure to the sun could not be evaded. This clothing is manufactured from a fabric noted for having UV-protective properties. Denier and fabrics with novel weave structure may have the sun shield qualities. Moreover, some fabrics and textiles can be pre-treated with ultraviolet-inhibiting ingredients during the manufacture of sun block clothing to augment their capacity to block UV rays.
The designs and styles of the sun block clothing could also be considered during its inception. Full collars, long sleeves and trousers are the common designs of sun block clothing. These designs are preferred for they can cover the skin parts, which are susceptible to damage by UV rays.
A number of clothing designs nowadays may require no further enhancements as they can already exhibit UV shield properties. The weave density, fiber structure and dark dye components in several fabrics are the qualities that could already inhibit ultraviolet radiation. Fabrics that contain blends or full percentages of natural heavyweight fibers and lightweight synthetics could have sun protective properties that may need no pre-treatment of UV-inhibiting ingredients. Dark-colored denims could also have this kind of quality. These designs and styles of sun block clothing may not be suitable for use during hot summer days as they can retain heat. Extreme perspiration and discomfort could be experienced.
Nevertheless, some fabrics of sun block clothing have been designed with moisture wicking and ventilated weaves for breath ability and cool comfort.
It has been known that Australia initially popularized sun block clothing. The type of clothing was used as an alternative or supplement to sunscreen cream or lotion. Recently, the sun block clothing is Australia adheres to a lab-testing procedure conducted by ARPANSA, an abbreviation of Australian Radiation Protection and Nuclear Safety Agency.
Sun block clothing's quality to effectively block ultraviolet radiation is rated in UPF and SPF. Ultraviolet Protection Factor measures the ultraviolet A and B while SPF only measures UVB.
