When it comes to protecting your skin from the sun, you’ve probably heard the terms SPF and UPF. But what’s the difference? And which one should you be using? Let’s break it down!
What’s SPF?
SPF stands for Sun Protection Factor, and it’s what you see on sunscreen bottles. SPF measures how well a sunscreen protects your skin from UVB rays—the ones that cause sunburn. For example, if you’re using SPF 30, it should take 30 times longer for your skin to burn than it would with no protection.
But here’s the catch: SPF mainly protects against UVB rays, not UVA rays (which cause aging and skin damage). Plus, you have to reapply sunscreen every couple of hours, especially if you're swimming or sweating. Sunscreen’s great, but it's not perfect.
What’s UPF?
UPF, or Ultraviolet Protection Factor, is like SPF for clothes and fabrics. It measures how much both UVA and UVB rays are blocked by the material. For example, a shirt with a UPF 50 rating blocks 98% of UV rays—super effective!
The best part? UPF-rated fabrics provide all-day protection without the need for reapplication. Whether you’re swimming, sweating, or hiking, your UPF-rated clothing or patches keep working.
TLDR Key Differences Between SPF and UPF
- What They Protect:
- SPF: Measures protection against UVB rays (and sometimes UVA, if broad-spectrum).
- UPF: Measures protection against both UVA and UVB rays.
- Application:
- SPF: Applied as lotions, sprays, or creams, which must be reapplied regularly.
- UPF: Integrated into fabrics like clothing and sun-protection patches, offering long-lasting protection.
- Durability:
- SPF: Decreases in effectiveness with sweat, swimming, and time.
- UPF: Stays consistent all day, even in water or high-activity environments.
Why Sun Patch's UPF 50+ Rating is Superior
At Sun Patch, we are proud to offer products with a UPF 50+ rating, providing maximum protection against both UVA and UVB rays. Unlike traditional sunscreens, our UV protection patches maintain their UPF 50+ rating throughout the entire day with just one application. This means you get 98% protection from harmful UV radiation all day long, even while swimming or sweating.
Our patented material not only blocks UV rays but is also designed to stay securely in place, ensuring your skin stays safe during all your outdoor activities. No need for reapplication, no white residue—just clean, waterproof, long-lasting sun protection.
So next time you’re weighing your sun protection options, remember that while SPF is effective for short bursts of sun exposure, UPF-rated products like Sun Patch offer superior, all-day protection with minimal effort. Stay safe, stay protected, and enjoy the sun with confidence!
