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Nothing brings summer fun to a halt faster than a sunburn. Even the most diligent sunscreen wearer may forget to reapply or find themselves burning when pool water washes off sunscreen faster than expected. Luckily, sun-protective swimwear is an easy way to protect your skin from UV rays that you never need to reapply. These swimsuits are made with high-tech fabric that can shield UVA and UVB rays no matter how many hours you spend in the water.
As you're shopping for a swimsuit, you may notice some described as offering UPF protection. UPF stands for "ultraviolet protection factor." It describes the sun-protective fabric's ability to shield the wearer from UVA and UVB rays. Since ultraviolet rays can penetrate certain types and colors of fabric, UPF swimwear is a safer option for long days at the swimming pool or on a beach vacation. UPF fabric is also used to make sun hats for adults and children, as well as swim coverups and other outdoorsy clothing.
Just like sunscreen, the higher the UPF number on your swimsuit, the better protection it gives you against UV rays. UPF swimwear levels can range from 30 to 50 or 50+. This number indicates what fraction of UV rays can penetrate the fabric. UPF 50 fabric only allows 2% of ultraviolet rays, or 1/50, to penetrate to your skin.
A simple way to get more sun protection is by increasing the amount of coverage your swimwear offers. This can include wearing longer swim trunks, a rash guard with long sleeves, or swim shorts or skirts.
It's also important to consider how your swimsuit fits if you're worried about sun exposure. Since the fabric in a skintight swimsuit is thinner from being stretched out, it actually provides less sun protection. Look for tankinis or swim dresses made with more fabric and offer a looser, more protective fit.
Choosing a swimsuit made with quick-drying fabric is more comfortable, and it's better for the suit's ability to protect you from the sun. A wet UPF swimsuit will lose some of its ability to block UV rays, so a quick-drying fabric will help the swimsuit get back to protecting you faster.
While they perform similar functions, and some swimsuit product descriptions may use both terms, UPF and SPF do differ. UPF measures the amount of ultraviolet radiation that penetrates the fabric, while SPF measures the time it takes for skin that’s been exposed to ultraviolet radiation to start burning. Also, UPF addresses broad-spectrum sun protection while SPF only measures UVB rays.
Wearing a sun-protective swimsuit is only one of the defensive measures you should take when you're outside in the water. Use sunscreen lotion, spray, or a sunscreen stick with a minimum SPF of 15 and apply it at least 15 minutes before sun exposure. There are some specialty options available, including facial and body sunscreens.
Reapply your sunscreen at least every 80 minutes if you're swimming or exercising and every two hours if you're just lounging. If you have little ones, make sure they wear specially-formulated children's sunscreen.
Lands' End Short-Sleeve Swim Tee
Made with moisture-wicking UPF 50 fabric, this short-sleeved rash guard features flatlock seams to prevent chafing. Its high neckline and durable stretchiness add protection and comfort. It comes in 10 color choices.
Sold by Amazon
Columbia Back Cast III UPF 50 Water Shorts
These pull-on shorts are easy to wear swimming or simply at a poolside barbecue. The quick-dry fabric also offers UPF 50 sun protection. They’re made from textured nylon and include a mesh-brief lining.
Sold by Macy’s, Backcountry, Dick’s Sporting Goods, Kohl’s and Amazon
Under Armour Harbour Heritage Colorblock Swim Trunks
The boldly colored polyester exterior offers UPF 50+ protection. It’s also water-repellent and boasts a four-way stretch. The trunks feature an elastic waistband and drawstring, two side pockets and an interior coin pocket. They have a 7-inch inseam and come in five colors.
Nike Contend Water-Repellent Colorblocked Swim Trunks
While these swim trunks don’t include built-in UV protection, they offer a 9-inch length for additional skin coverage. The trunks include a mesh brief lining and a stretch drawstring waistband. Along with hand pockets in the side seams, hook-and-loop closure pockets are hidden in the back’s design. They come in nine color choices.
Nike Essentials Long Sleeve Solid Hydro Rash Guard
Featuring Nike’s patented polyester/elastane Dri-FIT fabric, this long-sleeved swim top helps wick away moisture while providing lots of sun protection. Pair this rash guard with a swim skirt or shorts for additional coverage. It’s available in four solid colors.
Swim Solutions Pull-On Swim Shorts
These pull-on nylon/spandex swim shorts are an easy way to get added sun protection during your swim session or beach volleyball game. Pair them with a rash guard or tankini top for more coverage. They come in black to easily mix and match with your swimwear.
Sold by Macy’s
Lands’ End High Neck UPF 50 Modest Tankini Top Swimsuit
Featuring a high neck and back, a longer cut and a built-in soft-cup bra, this tankini swim top offers plenty of coverage as well as comfort. The high-tech spandex fabric is chlorine and sweat-resistant, providing UPF 50 sun protection. It comes in six solid colors and 20 prints.
Sold by Amazon
Speedo Quantum Fusion One-Piece Swimsuit
Stay protected during your laps with this performance-fit one-piece suit. The spandex fabric is chlorine-resistant and offers UPF 50+ sun protection. It comes in several color choices and includes a high-support mesh bra with removable cups.
Sold by Dick’s Sporting Goods and Amazon
Calvin Klein Pleated One-Piece Swimsuit
This women's swimsuit features UPF/SPF 50+ sun protection and full bottom coverage. The pleated front panel and square neckline offer flattering styling. It comes in five solid neutrals and four color-blocked prints.
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Laura Duerr writes for BestReviews. BestReviews has helped millions of consumers simplify their purchasing decisions, saving them time and money.
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