Whether you stay out all day in the sun or you just go outside only for a few hours, UV radiation can harm your skin. This radiation can reach your arms like other parts of your body, so it needs protection as well. Therefore, the best way to protect your arms is by using the right sun protection sleeve.

This article will guide you through the factors you must consider before purchasing UV protection sleeves.

UPF Factor

According to recent research, exposure to sun rays for long hours can damage the skin’s structural integrity. This can cause minor issues such as skin burn to significant problems like skin cancer.

The sleeves work by covering your skin from direct UV contact. Further, the material of the sleeves will be made of fabric that can block the UV rays. It includes both UVA and UVB.

The manufacturers will label the sleeve based on a factor known as UPF (Ultraviolet Protection Factor). This factor measures the amount of UVA and UVB radiation that can penetrate the fabric and touch your skin.

Like SPF in sunscreens, this number will give you a gist of the cloth’s ability to protect your skin from UV rays. For instance, a fabric of UPF rating 49 has a better ability to protect your skin than UPF 30.

For best results, the sleeves must have a UPF Protection of 50 or above. This means it blocks as much as 97% to 98% of UVB and UVA rays.

Pro Tip: The fabric should have at least UPF 30 to qualify for the Seal of Recommendation by The Skin Cancer Foundation.

Material of the Sun Protection Sleeve

This is one of the most crucial factors since it decides the UPF and more. Furthermore, the fabric ensures the quality of the material you are investing in.

Generally, the sleeves are made by blending two or more materials. Depending on these materials, the sleeves can be comfortable and durable.

Some of the materials to look for are:

• Polyester:This will make the material comfortable and easy to use. Also, it is mainly used as a base material.
• Nylon:Although it makes the sleeve durable, it is not very breathable. Nonetheless, it can be great material in combination with others.
• Elastane:Elastane, also known as spandex, has moisture-wicking properties. Plus, it makes the sleeve breathable.
• Other Materials: This includes cotton, flax, wool, hemp, and rayon. These materials can boost the fabrics ability to provide protection as well as cooling.

Cooling

It is a common misconception that adding a layer of clothing on your arms during a hot sunny day will worsen things. Mostly, this is because people believe the layers can make them sweat more. However, a good pair of UV protection sleeves will ensure cooling.

In addition to cooling and breathability, these sleeves will also have moisture-wicking properties. Therefore, you can wear them all day long, and you can focus on your task at hand.

Additionally, check for sleeve size, colour, and price. Furthermore, if you have sensitive skin, you should consider buying a seamless sun protection sleeve.

UPF factor is one of the most important factors to check before choosing a sun sleeve. Besides, please do not settle for anything less than 30 as it may not be effective in any way. It would help if you also considered all the other factors mentioned above.