What does UPF mean?

UPF stands for Ultraviolet Protection Factor and indicates what level of UV radiation is absorbed by the fabric (and is therefore blocked before it reaches your skin).

The Australian Government tests and rates the UPF rating of fabrics.

A fabric with a UPF rating of 5 indicates that 1/5th of the sun’s UV rays pass through the fabric. That is, 20% of all sunlight passes through a fabric with a UPF rating of 5. A regular cotton t-shirt may only have a UPF rating of 5.

Whereas, a fabric with a UPF rating of 50+ indicates that up to only 1/50th (or 2%) of UV rays pass through the fabric with that rating. Put another way, a fabric with a UPF 50+ rating blocks at least 98% of UV rays. UPF 50+, which is also known as an “excellent” rating is the maximum UPF rating awarded in Australia.

It is important to note that not all fabrics protect the same from the sun. Individuals with a certain type of skin may be susceptible to sunburn through their clothing if the UPF rating is very low.

Solbari is the leading Australian sun protective clothing (SPF clothing) brand with customers in over 60 countries. Solbari offers an award-winning range of sun protective clothing, sun hats, arm sleeves and umbrellas.

You can find out more about Solbari's certified UPF50+ sun protective range by clicking the blue links below:
Women UPF50+
Men UPF50+
Sun hats UPF50+
Accessories UPF50+

The Solbari Team

This blog is for information purposes only, always consult your medical professional.

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Solbari Sun Protection fabrics are tested and accredited UPF 50+ by the Australian Government

Solbari Sun Protection fabrics are tested and accredited UPF 50+ by ARPANSA, the Australian Government agency responsible for attributing UPF sun protective ratings to fabrics. UPF stands for ultraviolet protection factor and UPF 50+, the highest UPF rating means that only up to 2% of UV can penetrate the fabric.

Could UPF 50+ sun protective clothing replace sunscreen?

This blog highlights the fact that dermatologists see UPF 50+ sun protective clothing as the primary means of sun protection, to help prevent sun burn, skin ageing and skin cancer. Sunscreen is effective, but less reliable form of sun protection than UPF 50+ clothing because it is an application to the skin.

What does UPF mean?

What does UPF mean?

Also in Solbari Skin Health Blog

Which occupations have the highest risk of skin cancer?

Solbari Sun Protection fabrics are tested and accredited UPF 50+ by the Australian Government

Could UPF 50+ sun protective clothing replace sunscreen?

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