Today we want to delve into something that goes far beyond the aesthetics of our swimwear. When we design each Antara Ocean garment, we don't just think about how it will look on you and how to reuse discarded plastic; we also think about your health and the health of the planet.
Our swimsuits have UPF 50+ sun protection . But what does that really mean, and why is it the best ally for your skin and the ocean?
We often confuse the SPF we see on creams with the UPF (Ultraviolet Protection Factor).
While SPF measures how long it takes for your skin to burn in the sun with sunscreen, UPF measures exactly how much ultraviolet radiation (both UVA and UVB) passes through a fabric and reaches your skin.
A fabric with a UPF 50+ rating is the highest possible rating . This means the fabric blocks at least 98% of solar radiation .
Why does one fabric offer more protection than another?
Not all swimsuits are the same. The protection offered by our fabrics is achieved thanks to three key factors:
- Fabric density : The recycled polyester we use has a very compact structure. The tighter the weave, the fewer gaps there are for light to pass through.
- Color and thickness : The most intense colors and high-quality technical fibers absorb UV rays better before they touch your body.
- No added chemicals : The most important thing is that this protection is mechanical, not chemical. We don't use baths of harmful substances; it's the very construction of our high-tech fabric that protects you.
What science says: health and prevention
It's not just a matter of not turning "red as a tomato." Cumulative sun exposure is the leading risk factor for skin cancer and premature aging.
According to the Skin Cancer Foundation , clothing is the first line of defense against skin cancer. Unlike creams, UPF-protected clothing doesn't "wear off" with sweat or lose effectiveness if you don't reapply every two hours.
A scientific study published in the Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology highlights that the use of protective clothing significantly reduces the incidence of nevi (moles), which are precursors to melanoma (skin cancer).
The "basic t-shirt" trap: Did you know that a regular white cotton t-shirt typically has a UPF rating of only 5 or 7? That means it lets through almost 20% of radiation . When that t-shirt gets wet, its protection drops even further. In contrast, our fabrics maintain their effectiveness even underwater.
Advantages: less cream, more ocean
In the article "The Real Effect of Sunscreen on the Ocean ," we discussed how the chemicals in sunscreen damage coral reefs. The most logical and effective solution is simply to use less sunscreen.
By wearing a long-sleeved swimsuit or a piece with good coverage, you are drastically reducing the surface area of skin that needs chemical sunscreen.
1. Constant and error-free protection
Did you know that most of us only apply between 25% and 50% of the recommended amount of sunscreen? With a UPF 50+ fabric , there's no room for human error: protection is uniform and complete across the entire covered area .
2. Goodbye to chemical pollution
Less exposed skin means less lotion dissolving in the water. It's the purest form of environmental activism : protecting yourself while protecting the home of thousands of species. You're preventing milligrams of oxybenzone from reaching that reef you love to visit.
3. Savings and Convenience
Let's be honest: reapplying sticky lotion every 80 minutes is a hassle. With our technical fabrics made in Spain, you just slip on your swimsuit in the morning and forget about it. They dry quickly, wick away moisture, and keep you cool.
A Final Reflection ✨
At ANTARA OCEAN, we don't see our swimsuits as just swimwear fashion. We see them as a tool for change.
"I take care of myself because I love myself, and I take care of the sea because it is my home."
It's not about giving up the sun, but about enjoying it wisely. It's about understanding that our health and the health of the marine ecosystem are inextricably linked.
Have you ever stopped to think that your swimsuit could do so much for you and the planet at the same time? The next time you take a dip, feel the peace of mind that comes from knowing your skin is safe behind an invisible shield of sustainable technology.
Ready for your next mindful dip? 🩱
Unsure which sunscreen offers the best coverage for your skin type? Email us at hola@antaraocean.com! We'd love to help you choose the perfect sunscreen so you can enjoy the sun safely.
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