JUST A SHIRT?

Sun-protective clothing is becoming more and more widespread, with a large range of stylish products for both adults and children with a high degree of UVF protection.

Garments made of natural materials like cotton, silk or wool do protect your skin against UV radiation, but clothing made of synthetic materials (elastane, polyamide, polyester) is better. In specific Uvf-protective clothing extra chemical or mineral filters are added to the fabric, just like in sunscreen, such as titanium dioxide and zinc oxide. Darker colours protect better than lighter colours, though white can be more appealing to wear on a hot day.

The presence of these additives to the fabric can lead to an allergic reaction or irritation of the skin, so read the label carefully before buying if you have sensitive skin. Over time, the effect of the additives decreases because of immersion in water, either through swimming or being washed.

Uv-protective neck gaiters and buffs/ scarves are increasingly popular among professional sailors and those in the tropics to protect areas such as the ears and neck.

GET CHECKED

If you spend a long time in the sun, consider getting checked out by a dermatologist. “[Sailors] should go for two reasons: to get a baseline professional skin check and a risk assessment based on their history. The dermatologist will then tell them how often they should visit,” advises Dr Harken. “But for those who burn and cannot tan, have a lot of moles and freckles, skin cancer history in their family, or if there is a suspicious lesion, go today!”