Whats the difference between UPF rating and SPF rating?

UPF (Ultraviolet Protection Factor) and SPF (Sun Protection Factor) are two different rating systems used to measure the effectiveness of sun protection in various products, such as clothing and sunscreen. Here are the key differences between the two:

UPF (Ultraviolet Protection Factor):

Used for Clothing: UPF is primarily used to rate the sun protection offered by fabrics, clothing, and accessories like hats.

Measurement: UPF measures the fabric's ability to block both UVA and UVB rays, which are the two types of ultraviolet radiation that can harm the skin.

Rating Scale: UPF ratings typically range from 15 to 50+, with higher values indicating greater sun protection.  A fabric with a UPF rating of 50+ allows only 1/50th of UV radiation to pass through, providing excellent protection.

SPF (Sun Protection Factor):

Used for Sunscreen: SPF is used to rate the effectiveness of sunscreen products in protecting the skin from UVB rays.

Measurement: SPF measures how well a sunscreen can protect against UVB radiation, which is responsible for causing sunburn.

Rating Scale: SPF ratings typically range from 15 to 100+, with higher values indicating greater sunburn protection.  An SPF 30 sunscreen, when applied correctly, allows the user to stay in the sun 30 times longer than without sunscreen before getting sunburned.

UPF measures the sun protection of clothing and fabrics against both UVA and UVB rays, while SPF measures the sunburn protection of sunscreen products against UVB rays specifically. Both ratings are important for sun protection, and they can be used together to provide comprehensive protection from the harmful effects of the sun.

The colour and thickness of the fabric affect your protection from UVA & UVB rays.  If you are after solid protection, you would choose a darker coloured fabric and thicker weave.  Where as lighter colours have less ability to block the rays.

If you are after a better UVA/UVB protection, we recommend our long sleeve swimsuits and the the Sulawesi in Midnight provides stronger protection due to the darker fabric, compared to the Sulawesi in Snow.