Granger's Sunshield Blocks UV Rays

Sunshield provides up to UPF 50 to all kinds of clothing. UPF (Ultra Violet Protection Factor) reflects the fabrics ability to protect the body from UVA and UVB. Measurement is made using either Spectrophoto-meter or Spectroradiomenter. Generally thicker and denser fabrics will offer a higher level of sun protection while lighter and open weave fabrics will offer lower level. Unfortunately dense and heavy fabrics are not practical or comfortable to wear in the summer months or in year round sunny climates. Sunshield is formulated to provide high-level UV protection through 5 to 10 washes of the garment.

Why sunburn should be avoided and can be very dangerous:

• Sunburn is a reaction to exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation. Under these conditions, skin will become inflamed, pain will occur and the skin will redden. As exposure continues, the UV radiation (both A and B) will penetrate deeper into the skin and damage the skin’s cells.
• UVA radiation penetrates deep into the skin causing damage like wrinkles, blotchiness, sagging, discoloration and contributes to cancer.
• UVB radiation penetrates the top layer of skin and is the main cause of sunburn.
• Repeated sunburn will increase the risk of melanoma.
• All types of sunburn increase the risk of permanent and irreversible skin damage and further exposure increases the risk of skin cancer.

Granger’s Sunshield has been developed to add the highest possible levels of protection (UPF 50) to all fabrics including lightweight weaves or knits that may be found in typical summer wear.

• Helps even lightweight clothing protect the skin from harmful UVA and UVB rays.
• Untreated clothing can provide minimal protection.
• Convenient, wash-in UPF treatment for all fabrics.
• Prolongs the life of clothing, Helps resist fading.
• Odorless and Colorless.
• Durable, lasts through several (5 to 10) washes.
• Environmentally friendly “WaterWorks Technology® safe to use.

Why sun protective clothing is so important:

Much research has taken place to determine just how much sun protection is provided by various types of summer weight clothing. In Australia where sun protection has been extensively researched and documented, the Australian / New Zealand standards (AS/NZS 4399) for sun protective clothing was published in 1996. Research has shown that typical lightweight garments like T-shirts with a UPF rating of 10 will provide only moderate protection, while a garment with UPF 50 will provide excellent protection (source: ARPANSA 2003).

The UPF drops considerably if the garment is wet (especially cotton) and different fabrics have different UV radiation absorbing properties. Darker colors, closely woven fabrics will provide better protection than lighter colors, stretchy and open weaves. Frequently washed garments can enhance the UPF values due to shrinkage which reduces the size of the gaps between fibers.

The Australian / New Zealand standard, recommends the following clothing as being best for sun protection:

• A UPF rating of over 30. Sunshield will give you the UPF rating that you need to maintain prolonged and safe outings into the sun.
• Choose loose fitting garments. The constant movement of the fabric will give better overall protection.
• Choose garments with collars and 2/3 or long sleeves.
• Long pants or knee length shorts provide much better protection.
• Lightweight fabrics like cotton, hemp or linen will also keep you cool.

Not many fabrics in North America carry a UPF rating, so use of Granger’s will guarantee protection. If you prefer open weave fabrics (which offer lower UPF) be sure to treat with Granger’s Sunshield.

Some useful websites:

• www.skincancer.org/news/010829-rating.htm
• www.msnbc.msn.com/id/14046564/wid/11915773?GT1=8307
• www.who.int/uv/en/