Does a T-shirt provide sufficient protection against the sun's rays?

A T-shirt provides some protection from the sun's rays, but it is usually not enough to provide complete protection from harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays.

The amount of protection clothing provides against UV rays is measured by its UPF rating. A regular cotton T-shirt usually has a UPF of around 5 to 15, which means it blocks only 1/5 to 1/15 of UV rays. Thicker fabrics and more tightly woven materials offer better protection against UV rays. Cotton and linen generally offer less protection than synthetic fabrics such as polyester or nylon, especially if these fabrics are specially treated to block UV rays.

Dark colors absorb more UV rays and generally offer better protection than light colors. Light colors, such as white or pastel shades, offer less protection because they let more UV rays through. A wet T-shirt offers less protection than a dry T-shirt because UV rays pass through more when the fabric is wet.

A regular T-shirt offers some protection against UV rays, but it is often not enough to provide complete protection, especially if it is light in color, wet, or has a low density. For optimal protection against the sun, it is important to take additional measures, such as wearing UV-protective clothing, using sunscreen, and seeking shade.

Source: https://www.aad.org/public/everyday-care/sun-protection/shade-clothing-sunscreen/what-to-wear-protect-skin-from-sun

Author: Prof. Dr. Dirk Devroey - Latest update: 2024-08-01 - Copyright: Clinifacts 2024