Why should you get Skin Cancer Foundation-approved swimwear?
Swimming is one of life's great pleasures, but there’s nothing pleasurable about skin damage caused by sun exposure. The Skin Cancer Foundation's Seal of Recommendation identifies swimwear that offers genuine protection so you can enjoy the water and stay safe.
Let's explore what this certification means and why UPF-rated swimwear from SwimZip should be part of your sun-safety strategy.
How does swimwear earn the Seal of Recommendation?
The Skin Cancer Foundation doesn't award its seal lightly. Products must provide an ultraviolet protection factor (UPF) rating of at least 50, even in the lightest fabric colors. Manufacturers submit their products for rigorous testing to verify the level of protection before earning this respected certification.
Our swimwear collection features UPF 50+ protection that meets these stringent standards. This protection remains consistent throughout the garment, even in areas that stretch during movement. This certification sets our swimwear apart from non-certified options that might claim sun protection without verification.
Why does standard swimwear fall short?
Most swimsuits offer minimal protection against harmful UV radiation. When wet, regular fabrics allow significant amounts of UV radiation to reach your skin.
Even worse, many people feel a false sense of security when wearing a swimsuit, assuming they're protected from the sun when they're not. This leads to extended sun exposure without proper protection, increasing skin cancer risk over time.
Without a Skin Cancer Foundation certification, you don’t know whether or not your swimwear offers adequate protection.
The advantages of certified sun-protective swimwear
Skin Cancer Foundation recommended swimwear offers several benefits. First, protection stays consistent throughout the day. Unlike sunscreen that requires frequent reapplication, the UPF protection in quality swimwear remains effective hour after hour.
The fabric technology in certified swimwear creates a physical barrier against UV rays. SwimZip uses tightly woven fabrics engineered specifically for sun protection. These fabrics maintain their protective qualities even after exposure to chlorine, salt water, and regular washing.
Good sun-protective swimwear also covers more skin. Designs often include longer sleeves, higher necklines, and extended coverage for vulnerable areas like shoulders, back, and chest. These areas frequently develop skin cancers due to excessive sun exposure during water activities.
Sun-safe swimwear for the whole family
Women's options
Women often struggle to find swimwear that flatters their body type while providing adequate sun protection. SwimZip offers swim dresses, tankini tops, and high-waisted bottoms that provide midsection coverage and boost your natural shape.
For active women, swim shorts paired with a UPF top offer protection during beach volleyball, surfing, or chasing kids around the shore.
Men's sun protection
Men face increased skin cancer risks on the chest, back, and shoulders. Sun-protective swimwear for men includes rash guards and swim shirts with quick-drying fabrics that protect these vulnerable areas..
Children's swimwear
Children's skin is especially sensitive to UV damage. Kids' sun-protective swimwear with UPF 50+ protection keeps your little ones safe during water play.
For maximum sun protection, try full-coverage styles (like our sunsuits) that shield more skin. Also, check out SwimZip's neon swimwear collection, which combines bright colors that increase visibility in water, adding an extra layer of safety.
The complete sun protection approach
Protective swimwear works best as part of a comprehensive daily sun safety routine. Add a wide-brimmed sun hat to shield your face, neck, and ears. UV-blocking sunglasses protect your eyes and the delicate skin around them.
Apply broad-spectrum sunscreen with sun protection factor (SPF) 50 or higher to any exposed skin, and reapply every two hours. Seek shade during peak sun hours between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m.
Sun protective clothing extends your defense beyond swimwear. These UPF-rated garments block UV rays more effectively than normal clothing. For proper sun protection, choose sun-safe clothing that covers vulnerable areas.
Invest in your skin's future with SwimZip
Choosing Skin Cancer Foundation recommended swimwear protects your long-term skin health. Quality UPF swimwear prevents skin damage, lowers the risk of skin cancer, and reduces premature aging (benefits you simply won't get from non-certified options).
Make the smart choice for your family by choosing SwimZip's swimwear with the Skin Cancer Foundation's Seal of Recommendation. This certification represents peace of mind, and your skin will thank you for years.
Shop our sun-protective swimwear.
Skin Care Foundation FAQ
What kind of sunscreen is the best to use?
Mineral sunscreens containing zinc oxide or titanium dioxide as active ingredients provide immediate protection and are less likely to irritate sensitive skin. These come in many forms (mineral sunscreen lotion, mineral sunscreen stick, and spray options). Each creates a physical barrier on your skin rather than being absorbed.
Do I still need sunscreen if I wear UPF clothing?
Apply broad-spectrum sunscreen to exposed areas not covered by sun-protective garments. For your face, a facial hydrator sunscreen offers moisture and protection. For active situations, sunscreen spray SPF formulations offer convenient application for people on the move.
Is UPF protection different from SPF in sunscreen?
UPF measures how much UV radiation penetrates fabrics, while SPF indicates how long sunscreen extends your skin's natural protection. UPF 50+ clothing blocks 98% of UV rays, making it one of the most effective forms of sun protection.
How does sun exposure increase skin cancer risk?
UV radiation damages DNA in skin cells, causing mutations that may develop into cancer. People with fair skin have less natural melanin protection, increasing their risk of skin cancer with each exposure.
How does sun exposure increase skin cancer risk?
Harmful UV radiation damages DNA in skin cells, causing mutations that may develop into cancer. People with light colors of skin have less natural melanin protection, increasing their risk. The effects of UV radiation build up over time, which increases skin cancer risk with each exposure.
What clothing provides the best protection?
Long-sleeved shirts with a UPF rating provide excellent UV protection for your upper body. During warmer months, lightweight UPF fabrics keep you cool while maintaining a high level of protection. People with sun-sensitive skin should aim for maximum protection by covering areas prone to developing some form of skin cancer, such as the shoulders and chest. Always add a wide-brimmed hat to protect your face and neck.
Further reading
How should I stay safe from sunburn?
Sun-safe swimwear family ideas
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