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sun protection


Spending time in the sun has benefits and risks. Sunlight helps the body use calcium and phosphorous and builds strong bones and teeth. Overexposure to the sun, however, can result in problems such as:

  • Sunburn
  • Premature aging and wrinkling of skin
  • Skin cancers
  • Eye problems (cataracts)

This page provides links and information for consumers and researchers about the use of textiles for sun protection.


Frequently Asked Questions

How can I select sunscreen for my skin type?

What to choose:

Sunscreen or sun block with sun protection factor (SPF) 15 or greater (Higher numbers for those who always burn and never tan). 

Sunscreen with broader spectrum coverage not only prevent high percentage of UV B but UV A.

A cream-type sunscreen is the most suitable for those with dry skin. 

A lotion- or milk-type sunscreen may be preferred by those with normal skin.

Those with oily skin or acne (especially of the face) will be better served by an alcohol based lotion or gel type, but these are not appropriate for those with sensitive skin. 

Many cosmetic products including moisturizers, foundations, and lipsticks incorporate sunscreens; expensive ones do not necessarily protect better. 

If you are skin sensitive to para aminobenzoic acid (PABA), you need to pay attention to the sunscreen ingredients when you make a purchase.

Those with exceptionally fair skin or photosensitivity should use the highest SPF products (usually SPF 45) containing UVA blockers and physical blockers (titanium dioxide) (Oakley, 1992). 

When & where to apply:

Apply one-half hour before exposure and reapply every two hours.

Apply to cover all exposed skin including lips, ears, hands, shoulders, and top of feet. Avoid contact with eyelids (Oakley, 1992). 

How much to apply:

Thickness of application is important. If not enough is applied to the skin, SPF effectiveness could drop. 

Minimum amount for adult: 

  • Face and neck (1/2 tsp.) 

  • Arms and shoulders (1/2 tsp. to each side) 

  • Torso (1/2 tsp. to front and back) 

  • Legs and tops of feet (1 tsp. to each side) 

    (UC Berkeley, 2000)

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Does the regular clothing in my wardrobe give good protection from the Ultraviolet rays of the sun?

YES and NO. Use the following cues to identify clothes and fabrics for sun protection.

(1)The more you cover your body, the more protection you get.

Usually long-sleeves and long pants give you more protection than short ones. Do not forget to cover the back of your neck, lower legs and feet.

(2) Choose closely woven or knitted fabrics that fit well. 

The more porous or open a fabric is, the more the sun will go through. Twill fabrics such as denim jeans and chino pants offer good protection. If a knit has to stretch to fit, it will be more open and give less protection. 

(3) Choose darker colored clothing rather than lighter.

Dyes in the fabrics absorbs the UV rays. Darker fabrics have more dye, therefore can provide more protection.

(4) Wash your clothing with optical brighteners.

Many detergents contain optical brighteners to make clothes look whiter and brighter. These act like dyes to absorb UV rays. Simply washing your clothes with detergents that contain optical brighteners can improve their capacity to shield you from UV. 

Source: Stone, J. Shirts and stuff for sun safety. Pm-1862, Iowa State University Extension Publication. 2000.

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What Should I choose for eye protection?

Select sunglasses that labeled as blocking 99 % of UVA and UVB. If you have specific sun sensitiveness, consult with you doctor about sun protection. 

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Does indoor tanning protect me from the sun?

NO. Prior artificial tanning indoors does not protect your skin when you go outdoors in the sun. In addition, many people severely damage their skin through overexposure in tanning booths.

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How can I select a sun-safe hat?

When you choose a hat you may consider both protection and your own satisfaction with the hat. This is important for you to select a style you will regularly wear. A protective hat does no good unless you wear it!

So, try to find one you like that also provides sun protection. 

Keep the following features in mind when you select your hat: 

  • Closely woven fabric.

  • At least 3 inch-wide brim to shade ears and neck 

  • Light-weight and comfortable 

  • Air ventilation holes 

  • Secure fit or chin strap to stay on 

A canvas hat with air ventilation holes in the side may give you good protection from the sun. 

A straw hat with a lining under the brim and crown will give better shade and may be psychologically pleasing to you.

If you have a specific hat style that you want to wear, carefully compare it with these features mentioned above. Try to find the best hat for you.


Source: Stone, J. Is it Times to Change your Hat? Pm-1683, Iowa State University Extension Publication. 1999.
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