UPF stands for Ultraviolet Protection Factor, a fabric rating system that measures how effectively a fabric blocks ultraviolet (UV) radiation from reaching the skin. A UPF 50+ rating is the highest achievable rating in the world for fabrics, meaning it blocks at least 98% of harmful UVA and UVB rays.

Not all fabrics offer the same level of UPF protection. Research shows that a standard white cotton T-shirt may have a UPF of only 5, equivalent to wearing SPF 5 sunscreen. In contrast, UPF 50+ fabrics provide a highly effective barrier against sun exposure, making it a sun-smart choice for anyone wanting to reduce their risk of skin damage.

This information is for educational purposes only and is not medical advice.

UVA and UVB rays are forms of ultraviolet (UV) radiation that can damage the skin.

• UVA rays penetrate deeper into the skin and are primarily linked to premature ageing, including wrinkles, sunspots, and loss of skin elasticity.
• UVB rays are responsible for sunburn and are a major contributor to skin damage and the development of skin cancer.

This information is for educational purposes only and is not medical advice.

While many people are familiar with SPF (Sun Protection Factor) used in sunscreens, UPF (Ultraviolet Protection Factor) refers to the sun protection rating for fabrics.

Both measure protection from UV radiation, but they apply to different things:

• SPF measures how well sunscreen protects the skin against UVB rays, which are primarily responsible for sunburn.
• UPF measures how much a fabric blocks UVA and UVB radiation before it can reach the skin.

This information is for educational purposes only and is not medical advice.