On a day of boating, the sun feels wonderful.
On a dreary, wet day, how we long for it to shine! However, that
warmth from our sun carries a hazard – ultraviolet radiation
(UV).
Keli wearing MicroLite Shirt
©David Blue |
These rays have a shorter wavelength than visible light
and are divided into three types. UV-A rays penetrate deepest
into the skin, do not produce reddening of the skin (sunburn),
probably cause skin and other cancers and are not blocked
by most sunscreens. UV-B radiation penetrates less deeply,
causes sunburn, is known to cause skin cancer and is blocked
by most sunscreens. UV-C is the most dangerous of the three
types, but fortunately is almost totally absorbed by ozone
in the atmosphere.
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Sunscreens (suntan lotions) are quite effective at blocking UV-B
radiation but have to be reapplied during the day, especially if
you’re sweating, swimming or getting splashed with water.
Enter fabrics that protect you from the sun’s harmful rays.
Not just any fabric works. Many types offer little protection. That
cotton t-shirt you’re wearing probably gives you significantly
less protection than the SPF-15 sunscreen that is the minimum recommended
rating for outdoor activity.
Australia has the world’s highest rate of skin cancer. They
have high UV levels and relatively clear skies. They originated
the use of special fabrics for sun protection and the Australian
Radiation Protection and Nuclear Safety Agency (ARPNSA) developed
the first standards and test methods to certify protection levels.
Sunscreens are rated for their Sun Protection Factor (SPF) against
only UV-B rays. Fabrics are rated for their Ultraviolet Protection
Factor (UPF) and must protect against both UV-A and UV-B radiation.
Sun protective fabrics block the sun’s rays with the type
and density of their weave, the type of fiber and the dyes used.
NRS MicroLite™
and HydroSilk™
are excellent examples of sun protective apparel. MicroLite
gives you UPF 45 protection and HydroSilk the even higher
UPF 50+, the highest rating given. These fabrics are certified
under the ARPNSA standard. The ratings for the two fabrics
mean that only 1/45th or less than 1/50th of the UV-A and
UV-B rays that strike the fabric can penetrate to your skin.
And they wick moisture away from your body for wearing comfort.
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Mike wearing MicroLite Shirt
©Josh Davis |
As a further precaution, some studies indicate that washing your
garments with detergents containing fabric brighteners can maintain
and increase their sun protective qualities. The brightener chemicals
absorb some UV rays.
Yes, exposure to UV radiation carries a significant health risk.
However, you don’t have to give up your outdoor lifestyle.
You’ve got lots of tools at your disposal. Wear sun protective
clothing, use minimum SPF 15 sunscreens on exposed skin, wear quality
sunglasses and choose wide brim hats. And don't forget the young
people in your life. It is SO much simpler to protect them with
sun protective clothing, like
NRS
Kid's HydroSilk Shirts, than to chase them down several times
a day to slather on the sunscreen!
Boat Often, Enjoy the Sun & Boat Safe
