Protecting your skin during water activities or long hours at the beach is essential, and many turn to specialized gear for this purpose. One popular choice among beachgoers and water sports enthusiasts is the rash guard, but what is a rash guard?
Danny Bronshtein, a board certified nurse practitioner explains, “A rash guard is a piece of clothing that has the capabilities to block the UV light from the sun, thus protecting the skin from further UV damage. It is usually worn during sports activities or when going to the beach.”
For those in Brooklyn or Staten Island, NY, experiencing skin issues related to sun exposure or lack of UV protection, kalon Dermatology offers personalized treatment to address these concerns.
What Is a Rash Guard?
A rash guard is a flexible piece of clothing that repels moisture and protects the skin against UV radiation. Sunburn, sand, and repeated friction against the skin can lead to irritation. Prolonged exposure or frequent irritation may result in rashes.
Whether you are a professional water sports enthusiast or a casual beach goer, this protective clothing helps block harmful UV rays. Rash guards also prevent chafing with their snug fit. They are also known as sun shirts.
Rash guards are suitable for all ages and genders of people. Both short and long-sleeve rash guards are available.
What are the Key Features of a Rash Guard?
- Material: Rash guards are usually made of spandex, nylon, polyester, or other synthetic material. Manufacturers use elastane fabrics to make rash guards stretchy.
- Compression: A rash guard usually has flatlock stitching. It prevents skin irritation at the seams.
- Snug Fit: Skin chafing occurs when we wear loose clothing. The synthetic material of rash guards offers a snug fit and reduces chafing.
- Moisture-Repelling: Rash guard fabric is quick-drying and keeps the moisture away.
Do Rash Guards Offer UV Protection?
According to the experts, rash guards offer a good level of projection from UV protection. Rash guards offer UV protection by using fabrics with special coatings or weaves designed to block ultraviolet rays. The level of protection is measured by the Ultraviolet Protection Factor (UPF), with a higher UPF rating providing greater defense against sun damage.
For optimal UV protection, it’s best to choose a rash guard with a UPF rating of 50 or higher, as this can block up to 98% of harmful UV rays.
Tips to Wear a Rash Guard Correctly
- A rash guard or rash vest should be the bottom layer of the clothing. There is no need to wear anything beneath it.
- When wearing rash guards with wetsuits, having a snug-fit rash guard is important.
- Apply sunscreen with an SPF rating of 50 or higher to the exposed areas.
- Choose rash vests that are highly breathable. It will keep the body cool during warm weather conditions.
Advanced Rash Treatment for Smooth, Healthy Skin at kalon Dermatology.
UV rays and other environmental elements can cause rashes on the skin. kalon Dermatology offers advanced rash treatment to restore the smooth appearance of the skin and heal it from the inside.
At kalon Dermatology, our certified dermatologists utilize advanced diagnostic tools and techniques to provide personalized rash treatment tailored to your skin’s needs.
If you live in Brooklyn or Staten Island, NY, book an appointment today. Call 833-635-2566 to get rash treatment and make your skin smile.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Do I need to wear a rash guard for regular swimming?
Wearing a rash guard is especially beneficial when swimming in rough waters or on sandy beaches, as it helps reduce chafing and irritation caused by friction or contact with abrasive elements.
Q: Are rash guards and swim shirts the same?
Swim shirts are modern variations of rash guards with an increased level of protection and versatility. They aren’t the same because swim shirts have a loose fit.
Q: Can I wear a rash guard without doing watersports?
Rash guards protect us from skin irritation while cycling, hiking, or other physical activities. Therefore, rash guards can be worn even when you’re not engaging in water sports.
Q: Which rash guard should I choose?
If the weather conditions are normal, regular rash guards should work. For cold weather conditions, thermal rash guards give more protection and comfort.
Disclaimer
This article is for educational purposes only and is not medical advice. Consult your physician for any medical concerns or before starting any treatment. Do not ignore professional medical advice due to the information read here. The authors are not responsible for any outcomes from the use of this information.
