By Wes Bolyard
In Part 1, the “why” was explained along with some of the “how” with sunscreen ingredients. 

The Sun Protection Factor (SPF) is also an important feature to consider which calculates protection from sunburn caused primarily by UVB rays, but does not adequately measure how well it protects from UVA rays. SPF is the length of time an individual may be exposed to UV radiation when a sunscreen is applied, compared to when it is not. So if you normally burn in 20 minutes, SPF 15 will provide protection for roughly 300 minutes (SPF 15 x 20 minutes). Be aware that if the same individual exposed themself to the sun for 10 minutes BEFORE applying the sunscreen, they would lose 50% of their protection (150 minutes). All sunscreens MUST be applied about 20 minutes PRIOR to exposure to be maximally effective.

Sun protective clothing is recommended by doctors and the American Academy of Dermatology as a vital tool in protecting people from sun exposure. All fabrics in some way impact the transmission of UV radiation, however a variety of factors make some fabrics more effective at disrupting UV rays than others. Dense construction, thick fabric, specific types of dye (not color), specialized laundry additives, fiber types (polyester and nylon), lack of stretch and dry materials are the factors sun protective clothing should possess. Ultraviolet Protection Factor (UPF) is a rating system used to indicate how effectively fabrics shield skin from UVR.

For over twenty years, Sun Precautions has been producing their head-to-toe Solumbra line of clothing that blocks over 98% of the sun’s harmful UVA and UVB rays. Shaun Hughes, Sun Precautions’ founder and president, is a melanoma skin cancer survivor who is keenly aware of the need to safeguard skin from harmful UV rays. “A revolutionary patented fabric with a unique combination of fibers, weaving techniques and dying methods gives Solumbra a UPF of 100+ that gives all-day UVA/UVB sun protection and doesn’t wash out or come off,” stated Hughes. The clothing is stylish, soft as brushed cotton, wicks away moisture and extremely lightweight—in fact, some shirts weigh 20% less than a typical short-sleeved polo shirt.  Sun Precautions offers excellent choices for golf clothing such as Shade Sleeves and wide brim hats. The Shade Sleeves come in five different colors (to blend in with your existing golf shirts) and attach with Velcro for quick on and off. They also provide protection when driving when the sun is shining through the window. For more information, visit SunPrecautions.com.

Whether you are playing outdoors, driving to your next destination or just working in the yard, there are a variety of sun protection products available to help prevent skin damage.