Skincare Facts
SPF Meaning
SPF stands for Sun Protection Factor and is used for rating sunscreen products. A sunscreen’s SPF rating is a relative measure of how long it will protect you from UVB rays, the chief cause of sunburn, when used exactly as directed. Unless a sunscreen offers “broad-spectrum coverage”, it does not protect against UVA ray damage.
UPF Meaning
UPF stands for Ultraviolet Protection Factor and is used for rating fabrics. The UPF rating indicates how much of the sun’s UV rays are absorbed by the fabric before it reaches your skin. A UPF rating of 50 means that 98% of UV radiation (both UVA and UVB rays) is blocked by the fabric. This indicates that UPF50 clothing is an effective form of sun protection.
UVA/UVB Meaning
Both UVA and UVB rays contribute to visible skin damage and the risk of skin cancer. UVB rays are responsible for causing sunburns and play the greatest role in causing skin cancer. UVA rays penetrate the skin deeper and are most associated with aging signs of sun damage like sun spots and wrinkles.
Mott50 Certification
Mott50 fabrics undergo a rigorous certification process in accordance with AATCC, ASTM and ANSI UPF rating standards. We test every run of fabric against multiple UV transmittance standards and use independent, third-party testing as part of our evaluation process.
Many common fabrics are not UPF50+ and do not provide adequate protection from UV radiation. For example, a white cotton T-shirt only provides a UPF of 7 when it’s dry and a UPF of 3 when it’s wet. The best way to be confidently protected is by wearing our certified UPF50+ fabrics.
Signs of aging and skin cancers are caused by sun damage. Mott50 UPF50+ sun protective clothing can be worn for both anti-aging and health purposes. It’s the perfect addition to any smart and trend-right wardrobe.
To ensure maximum longevity of your garments, please follow the care instructions on the inside of the garment. Garments should always be rinsed out promptly after swimming. Our UPF50+ protection does not wash out or diminish over time. Garments do wear out though. If the fabric starts looking or feeling thin in places, that’s a sign it’s time to purchase a new one.
Sun protective apparel is not just for sunny days. 80% of UV rays penetrate through the clouds, making sun protection a must no matter the weather.
Sun exposure is not a healthy way to get vitamin D. Instead, eat a healthy diet that includes foods naturally rich in vitamin D or take vitamin D supplements.
Check your skin regularly and visit your dermatologist annually for a skin exam.
Skin cancer is the most common cancer in the United States.
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1 in 5 Americans will develop skin cancer in their lifetime.
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An estimated 90 percent of skin aging is caused by the sun.
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One blistering sunburn during childhood or adolescence can nearly double a person’s chance of developing melanoma.
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Skin cancer can affect anyone, regardless of skin color. Skin cancer in patients with skin of color is often diagnosed in its later stages, when it’s more difficult to treat.
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90% of nonmelanoma skin cancers and 86% of melanomas are associated with exposure to UV radiation from the sun.
Sources: Skin Cancer Foundation and American Academy of Dermatology
