Umbrellas
Historically, women use parasols or cloth
sun umbrellas to protect their skin from the sun. Today's
styles can be an especially helpful method of sun protection.
Stashed in a purse, briefcase, in the car, etc., sun umbrellas
can be used as an alternative to a hat and can provide
instant shade.
Like anything made with fabric, however,
umbrellas and canopies provide different levels of protection
depending on the type of material used. The denser the
weave the higher the Ultraviolet Protection Factor or
UPF. If the material is plastic coated, it will provide
a higher UPF as plastics generally absorb ultraviolet
radiation.
Some small umbrellas that are offered
for the sole purpose of sun protection (as opposed to
protection from rain) are double lined. The inside lining
should be dark to help absorb reflected or indirect
UV. These sun umbrellas may also have a label showing the
UPF level offered. This is not required in the United
States, but several sun protection companies offer it.
Larger umbrellas used on the beach or
over outdoor tables to offer shade are often made with
canvas. The sun protection levels may vary from year
to year if the canvas is washed. If it shrinks, it will
offer more protection. If it is stretched it can loose
its protective abilities. Color also determines the
effectiveness of these sun umbrellas. In general, darker colors are
more effective, but will loose some of that effectiveness
if faded.
Umbrellas and canopies generally do not
protect against indirect UV exposure (UV that is reflected
from surfaces such as sand, water, snow and concrete e.g. pools) so sun protective
clothing, sunscreen and sunglasses should still be worn.
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