Choosing the right swimwear is one of the most important things you can do to protect your skin from sun damage and to prevent skin cancer.
When choosing your swimwear, look for quality fabrics that provide UV protection and have a water-repellent finish. You should also try on the swimwear before you buy it so that you can be sure it will fit properly.
Here are 5 tips to help you choose the best sun protective swimwear:
- Consider the sun protection factor (SPF)
The SPF rating on the label is often not an accurate representation of the protection provided by a swimwear product. Sunscreens can be absorbed into your skin if you have oily skin and sweat, which reduces their effectiveness.Make sure you are wearing a sun protective swimsuit that has UPF 50 or higher. This means the fabric is made from fiberglass or nylon with a resin coating to block UV rays.
- Examine the fabric
Choosing a rashguard or t-shirt that has a soft, breathable fabric will protect your skin from the sun better than one with a thick, rough texture. Fabrics that are too light may reflect light back at you, which can make it harder to stay out of the sun’s rays.The best choice for kids and adults is a rashguard. These swimsuits have sleeves, and they cover your whole body except for your face, arms, head and hands.Look for garments made from natural fibers such as cotton or silk. These materials will wick moisture away from your skin and keep you cool when you’re swimming in hot weather all while providing maximum protection.
- Choose a style that fits your body shape
Sun protective swimwear has different styles and cuts, so it’s important that you find one that fits your body well. If you’re tall and thin, you might want to go with a high-cut top while someone who is short and stocky may prefer a lower cut top with long sleeves. The cut also depends on how much skin you want covered up. For example, if you have large breasts or an ample bottom area, then you may want to choose a full coverage piece such as a one piece suit with no straps or straps that are long enough to cover these areas completely.
- Choose coverage
If you’re going to be outside, you’re going to get sunburned. And if you want to avoid that unpleasant, stinging sensation, it’s important that your swimsuit cover your back and hips. Choose a swimsuit that has good coverage over armholes that are large enough to cover your arms when they’re raised up above your head while swimming or playing in the sand.If you are looking for something less expensive but still protective, try a long sleeve rashguard top with side seam openings on both sides of the back so that they do not interfere with swimming strokes or kick turns while exercising in the water.