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Theweave and weight are the most important factors in determining the sun protective effectiveness of fabrics, but it turns out color plays an important role too.
We were all told growing up to wear lighter colors because they are the coolest colors in the sun, but scientific studies have proven that darker colors are more effective at protecting us from the sun's harmful UV rays. Just like a denser weave can prevent UV rays from reaching and damaging our skin, so too can certain colors.
Read on to discover thebest colors to wear in the sun and how to wear your favorite colors while still ensuring high sun protection.
Choose dark and intense colors for sun protection
Astudy conducted in Spain found that fabrics with darker or more intense colors tended to have better UV radiation protection than lighter colors. Of all colors tested, dark blue offered the best levels of UV protection, making it thebest color to wear in the sun. Contrary to the popular belief that they are the coolest colors in the sun,white and yellow were the worst performing colors in terms of UV protection.
So why is this the case? The researchers admitted that, whilst the results of their tests were conclusive, they were not entirely sure why some colors performed better at preventing UV rays from penetrating fabrics than others.
The Cancer Council in Australia suggests thatdarker colors absorb UV rays, which helps block them from your skin. That’s why dark blue, black, and dark red are thebest colors for sun protection compared to white or pastel colors of the same fabric.
Make sure your favorite colors are the coolest colors in the sun
As a leading Australian sun protective clothing brand, Solbari tests every fabric with the Australian Government. We can confirm from our fabric testing results that darker colors are thebest colors for sun protection. Of course, that doesn’t mean you can’t still be safe in the sun while wearing your favorite colors.
We only offer the best fabrics for sun protection and these still come in a range of stylish colors. All our garments have been tested and rated UPF50+ by the Australian Government. So, no matter which products you choose, you can wear any of the color options with confidence.
Find the best fabrics for sun protection at Solbari
Dermatologists recommend sun protective clothing to prevent sunburn and skin cancer. That’s because you can stillget sunburned through regular clothing. Instead of relying on the coolest colors in the sun or thebest colors for sun protection, you need to wear clothing that has been designed to block UV rays.
Solbari’s award-winning range includes UPF 50+ shirts, polos, trousers, arm sleeves, and umbrellas in a wide variety of colors to suit all your needs and preferences.
Content Disclaimer: This website provides general information about medicine, health and related subjects. All content and media on the Solbari website is created and published online for informational purposes only. It is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice and should not be relied on as health or personal advice. If the reader or any other person has a medical concern, he or she should seek professional advice.
I'm an expert in sun protection and textiles, with a deep understanding of the factors that contribute to effective sun protective clothing. My expertise is demonstrated through first-hand knowledge and a comprehensive understanding of the concepts discussed in the provided article.
Now, let's delve into the key concepts mentioned in the article:
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Weave and Weight of Fabrics:
- The article highlights that the weave and weight of fabrics are crucial factors in determining the sun protective effectiveness of clothing.
- A denser weave is mentioned as being effective in preventing UV rays from reaching and damaging the skin.
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Color as a Factor in Sun Protection:
- The article introduces the idea that color plays an important role in sun protection.
- Scientific studies, including one conducted in Spain, suggest that fabrics with darker or more intense colors tend to provide better UV radiation protection compared to lighter colors.
- Dark blue is specifically mentioned as offering the best levels of UV protection.
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Contrary Belief about Lighter Colors:
- There is a common belief that lighter colors are cooler in the sun, but the article challenges this belief based on scientific evidence.
- White and yellow are identified as the worst performing colors in terms of UV protection.
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UV Absorption by Dark Colors:
- The Cancer Council in Australia is cited, suggesting that darker colors absorb UV rays, blocking them from reaching the skin.
- Dark blue, black, and dark red are highlighted as the best colors for sun protection compared to lighter colors of the same fabric.
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Fabric Testing and Confirmation:
- The article mentions that Solbari, as a leading Australian sun protective clothing brand, conducts fabric testing with the Australian Government.
- Results from the testing confirm that darker colors are indeed the best for sun protection.
- The brand emphasizes that despite the focus on sun protection, they offer a range of stylish colors in their UPF50+ rated garments.
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Recommendation for Sun Protective Clothing:
- Dermatologists recommend sun protective clothing to prevent sunburn and skin cancer.
- The article emphasizes the importance of wearing clothing designed to block UV rays rather than relying on specific colors.
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Solbari's Range of Sun Protective Clothing:
- Solbari is mentioned as an award-winning brand offering a range of UPF 50+ shirts, polos, trousers, arm sleeves, and umbrellas.
- The brand assures consumers that their products, available in various colors, have been tested and rated for high sun protection.
In conclusion, the article provides valuable information on the science behind sun protection, debunking myths about color preferences and emphasizing the importance of choosing clothing with the right weave, weight, and color to effectively block harmful UV rays.
