Skin Cancer Awareness Month is an important reminder that sun protection should not begin and end at the beach. Everyday exposure adds up, whether you are walking the dog, running errands, playing golf, driving, or simply spending time outside between activities.
That is why dermatologist Elizabeth Rostan, MD of Charlotte Skin & Laser, emphasizes the value of sun-protective clothing as part of a daily routine.
“Sun-protective clothing is a critical part of protecting your skin from damaging rays of the sun,” says Dr. Rostan. “Sunscreen is not nearly as effective as clothing is, often evidenced by a tan line at my wrist and lower leg, where my sun-protective clothing ends and my reliance on sunscreen begins.”
It is a simple image, but an effective one. Sunscreen matters, but it can wear off, be applied unevenly, or be forgotten altogether. Sun-protective clothing offers reliable coverage the moment you put it on, helping shield the areas that see repeated exposure day after day.
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For Dr. Rostan, that ease is part of what makes UPF clothing so valuable. “Not only is UV clothing some of the best protection you can get, it is easy. I am ready for the sun immediately by just donning my shirt and pants and applying sunscreen on the limited exposed areas.” That convenience can make a meaningful difference, especially for people with active schedules. When protection is built into what you wear, it becomes easier to make it part of everyday life. Dr. Rostan also points out that the effects of sun exposure go beyond skin cancer risk. “In addition to skin cancer-causing DNA damage, a major effect of sun exposure is the breakdown of our skin’s structure - collagen and elastin, leading to sagging, crepey, and wrinkled skin.” In other words, daily sun protection is about more than prevention in the long term. It is also about maintaining the health and appearance of your skin over time. Of course, one of the biggest misconceptions about coverage is that it must feel heavy or hot. That is one reason Dr. Rostan has been a longtime fan of IBKUL. “These shirts keep you cool, much cooler than having the sun hit your skin directly. The IceFil® fabric and the mesh on the inside arms of the long sleeve tops keep you cool even on very hot days. IBKUL shirts, in particular, have a great athletic fit and fashionable patterns that add style to your sun-protective outfit.” For anyone building a more thoughtful sun-safety routine this season, her message is clear: wear sunscreen on exposed skin, but do not stop there. Protective clothing can be one of the easiest and most effective ways to help reduce cumulative sun damage. |
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This Skin Cancer Awareness Month, it is worth thinking about the moments that add up: the everyday walks, practices, rounds, errands, and afternoons outside. Sun protection is not just for special occasions. It is a daily habit, and what you wear can make that habit easier.
Explore UPF 50+ styles designed for comfort, cooling performance, and everyday life in the sun.
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About Dr. Elizabeth Rostan Elizabeth Rostan, MD, is a dermatologist and founder of Charlotte Skin & Laser in Charlotte, North Carolina. She earned her medical degree from the University of North Carolina School of Medicine and completed her dermatology residency at Duke. She is a longtime advocate for healthy skin and daily sun protection. Learn more about Dr. Rostan and Charlotte Skin & Laser. |
