While it may seem shocking for an average Londoner, people from tropical areas tend to cover their entire bodies from sun rays, even if the temperature is far above 30. Residents of Aruba, Cambodia, Somalia, Philippines, Mali, or Peru don’t show off their skin when the sun is out; this makes sense, considering applying suncream daily in these environments is not a common occurrence. Tourists visiting these countries may struggle to understand how to overcome the sensation of extreme heat that they find unbearable by putting on more clothes. At the same time, locals open their eyes widely, asking why visitors would expose their skin to the heat instead of hiding it. So, which approach is more advisable from a medical perspective?
According to the American Academy of Dermatology, we should cover up as much skin as possible when spending time outdoors. Remember to apply UV-protective creams of at least 30 SPF to the uncovered parts of the skin; even better if you put some of it on the skin beneath the fabric you wear. Don’t forget to reapply sunscreen every few hours and after swimming or sweating. Moreover, staying in the shadows is considered wise as an extra anti-skin-cancer effort. Years after beach sunbathing became part of a summer routine, dermatologists warn: if you take your health seriously, it’s a no-no.
Wearing sun-protective clothing, i.e., garments with an ultraviolet protection factor UPF number on the label, is ideal. However, since the invention is relatively new, it’s not always within reach and is sometimes pricey. So, while sunscreen clothing goes a long way in protecting you from the sun’s harmful UV rays, some casual garments are more, and others are less helpful in protecting your skin. Which one does the job better?
The American Academy of Dermatology confirms that using dense, dark fabrics outdoors on a sunny day is better for your complexion. Fabrics with a loose or open weave, such as lace, aren’t effective in providing sun protection, and light colors, which used to be said to reflect the sunlight, are actually worse than dark colors, for that matter. Long-sleeved shirts and pants protect your skin more effectively than tank tops or short sleeves. A long-sleeved denim shirt provides an SPF of 1,700, while a white t-shirt provides an SPF of about 7. It’s easy to forget that feet will also benefit from some sunscreen. Sandals or flip-flops are comfortable in the heat, but keep in mind to apply sunscreen to all exposed skin. Also, contrary to what a common sensation in this regard is, wet clothing offers less sun protection than dry clothing. Remember the hat, invented for beauty as much as for covering up your face and neck. The wider the brim, the better. If it protects not only part of your face but also your ears, head, and neck, you win! Baseball or straw hats with holes don’t fulfill these requirements. Choose lightweight clothing with long sleeves, stay in airy areas, cover as much skin as possible, apply sun cream every couple of hours, and avoid direct sun exposure.
