In recent years, as people have become more conscious of sun protection, a wide range of sunscreen products have flooded the market. From sunscreens and sunglasses to sunscreen masks, one of the latest trends is sunscreen clothing. However, recently, UNIQLO faced controversy when two of its sunscreen garments were found to have a UPF (Ultraviolet Protection Factor) of only 16.95, far below the national standard of UPF 30. This incident has sparked questions about the effectiveness of such products.
Sunscreen clothing is still a relatively new concept for many consumers. When I interviewed 30 people at two shopping malls in Beijing, only five had heard of it, while the rest were unfamiliar with the term. According to Huayuechun from the China Textile Network Market Service Department, UV-shielding fabrics first gained popularity in the U.S. in 2007 and later entered the Chinese market. Currently, these materials are mostly used in outdoor gear rather than everyday clothing.
From my research, the production of UV-protective fabrics involves adding special additives or increasing fabric density through finishing processes. Some manufacturers also use ceramic micropowders combined with fibers to reflect and scatter UV rays. However, most domestic companies rely on chemical additives for UV protection. Are there any official standards to ensure that these products meet safety requirements?
China introduced a new standard on January 1st this year: "Evaluation of Textiles' UV Protection Performance." According to this regulation, only fabrics with a UPF over 30 and UVA transmittance under 5% can be labeled as "UV protection products." The label must include the standard number GB/T 18830, the UPF value (e.g., 30+ or 50+), and a note that protection may decrease over time due to washing or stretching.
Experts suggest that even regular clothing can offer good UV protection. For example, a black T-shirt can block up to 95% of UV radiation. Darker colors, thicker fabrics, and certain materials like polyester provide better protection than lighter, thinner ones. A British study found that light yellow cotton had a very low SPF (around 7), while white cotton offered higher protection (SPF 33–57). Still, sensitive skin might need extra protection.
For those who spend long hours outdoors or have specific skin conditions, regular clothes may not be sufficient. In such cases, UV-protective clothing can be a better choice. These garments are designed to wick away sweat, remain breathable, and offer comfort during outdoor activities.
When shopping, look for clear labels indicating the UPF value and material composition. Not all brands disclose this information, so buyers should be cautious. If the product lacks proper UV protection parameters, it's best to avoid it. Also, repeated washing or stretching can reduce the effectiveness of sunscreen clothing, requiring re-treatment or replacement.
In short, while sunscreen clothing is becoming more popular, it’s important to choose wisely and understand the science behind UV protection. Always check the specifications before making a purchase.
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