UPF50+ Sun Protection Explained
What is UPF50+ and why does it matter for kids?
UPF stands for Ultraviolet Protection Factor. It measures how much UV radiation a fabric blocks before it reaches your child's skin. A UPF50+ rating is the highest available classification, meaning the fabric blocks over 98% of the sun's harmful UV rays. For Australian kids who spend long days at the beach and pool, UPF50+ swimwear is one of the most effective forms of sun protection available.
UPF vs SPF : what is the difference?
SPF (Sun Protection Factor) measures how well a sunscreen protects skin from UV radiation. UPF measures the same thing but for fabric. The key difference is consistency. Sunscreen needs to be reapplied every two hours, can wash off in the water and is easy to miss on wriggling kids. UPF50+ fabric works continuously for as long as your child is wearing it, with no reapplication needed on covered areas. For active kids in and out of the water, UPF50+ swimwear is more reliable than sunscreen alone on the areas it covers.
What does UPF50+ actually block?
UPF50+ fabric blocks over 98% of both UVA and UVB radiation. UVA rays cause long term skin damage and are present year round, even on cloudy days. UVB rays are responsible for sunburn and are strongest during peak UV hours between 10am and 3pm. Australian UV levels are among the highest in the world, making UPF50+ protection particularly important for children spending time outdoors.
Does colour affect UV protection?
Yes, and this is where Brashies swimwear has a dual advantage. Darker and brighter colours generally provide better UV protection than pale or white fabrics. Brashies fluorescent colours are designed primarily for water safety and visibility, but they also contribute to the overall sun protection performance of every garment alongside the UPF50+ fabric rating.
Does UPF50+ fabric lose its rating over time?
High quality UPF50+ fabric retains its rating through normal use and washing when cared for correctly. Brashies swimwear is made from chlorine-resistant fabric designed to hold its colour, shape and protective properties through an entire Australian summer season. Avoid leaving swimwear in direct sunlight for extended periods when not being worn, and rinse after each use to maintain the fabric quality.
How much of my child do I need to cover?
UPF50+ swimwear only protects the skin it covers. For maximum protection, pair a long sleeve rashie or long sleeve one piece swimsuit with board shorts, a sun hat and sunscreen on any exposed areas including the face, neck and hands. The Brashies range is designed with full coverage in mind, with long sleeve options across our rashies and swimsuits collections.
Is UPF50+ swimwear enough on its own?
UPF50+ swimwear is one part of a complete sun safety approach. Cancer Council Australia recommends using five forms of sun protection together during peak UV periods: slip on sun protective clothing, slop on SPF50+ sunscreen, slap on a hat, seek shade and slide on sunglasses. Brashies UPF50+ swimwear covers the slip component, but we recommend using all five for children spending extended time outdoors.
For a complete guide to keeping kids sun safe at Australian beaches, see our Sun Safety Guide.
Which Brashies products carry a UPF50+ rating?
All Brashies swimwear carries a UPF50+ rating, including our girls swimsuits, kids rashies and board shorts. Our accessories including towels, wet bags and hats are designed to complement your child's sun protection routine. See our full range and find the right combination for your child.
