|
There are 2 types of UV rays - UVA and UVB. UVB rays are the ones responsible for that burning feeling, and what most sun tan lotions are designed to block out. At one time they were thought to be the main cause of skin cancers. Studies have now shown that the UVA rays, which penetrate deeper into the skin, contribute to basal and squamous-cell cancers and even trigger melanoma. So all of these years we thought we were safe by using sun tan lotions, designed to block UVB rays, we were being zapped by UVA. The lotions available that effectively block both UVA and UVB are those with Zinc and Titanium Oxides and have a white paste look. The disadvantages of these lotions are that they don't look nice, are very expensive and therefore are rarely applied in enough quantities to give the protection. |
|
The best protection is a UV rated garment which blocks out the harmful UVA and B rays. Our fabrics have been tested and approved by CANSA (Cancer Association of Southern Africa) and NATA (Australia) to offer a UPF of 50+. To get a 50+ rating, the fabric must block 98% or more of the UV rays. A word of warning, some manufacturers claim ratings of 100+. These are "in-house" specifications and do not conform to trusted authorities like CANSA and NATA. The 50+ category is the highest standard offered by CANSA and NATA, so you can be sure you are getting the best protection possible. |
|
