What Should You Wear in the Sun if You Have Lupus?
We share a lot about the damaging effects of the sun's UV rays here on our blog to remind you of the importance of sun protective clothing and swimwear. We want you to stay protected from the sun, and this is especially true if you have lupus.
According to the Lupus Foundation of America, even UV rays from artificial light can be just as damaging and painful as the sun! UV light can trigger photosensitivity and lupus flare ups, which make living with lupus difficult at times. Today, we go over what to wear in the sun if you have lupus to provide you with some guidance in the event you're struggling trying to figure out how to best protect your skin and looking for support.
What Is Lupus?
Lupus is an inflammatory disease where your immune system attacks itself. There are over 200,000 cases in the U.S. and it can be treated, but not cured.
Lupus can be lifelong, which is why it's best to learn how to properly protect your body from triggers like UV light.
Why People with Lupus Are Sensitive to UV Light
Board-certified dermatologists can best explain why individuals with Lupus are so sensitive to UV light. It has to do with their cells. UV radiation causes cell damage to everyone's DNA, however, it's different with people who have Lupus. Their cells are much more sensitive to UV radiation and their immune systems have a much more difficult time clearing cells damaged by UV light.
What happens next is that these dead cells stay in the body and trigger an immune system attack.
Photosensitivity and Lupus
People with lupus also often have photosensitivity, with around 40% to 70% of these individuals finding it worsens with exposure to UV rays. This can manifest as sunburn-like rashes, which last for a couple of days up to several weeks!
Additionally, UV light can activate what's called a lupus flare or when your lupus symptoms flare up and you start to feel worse. Lupus flares trigger symptoms like joint pain, fatigue, tingling, and numbness.
What to Wear to Protect Yourself from Lupus Flare Ups
UPF 50+ Long-Sleeve Shirts
Long-sleeve sun-protective shirts with a UPF rating of 50+ offer comprehensive coverage from UV light. A UPF 50+ rating is the best UPF rating as it protects you from over 98% of UVA and UVB light.
You can find long-sleeve sun-protective shirts that are breathable, comfortable and mositure-wicking too, like our collection of shirts for men at women here at UV Skinz.
UPF 50+ Pants
You also want to keep your legs protected from UV light, which is why UV pants are also a great choice. You can choose from a variety of fabrics and fits, including cargo pants, leggings, and walking pants.
Sun-Protective Accessories
Don't forget to wear a hat, your bamboo protective sleeves, and if needed, your UPF neck gaiter. This is especially true for people with lupus who need to be very careful when exposed to UV light. Fortunatelty, there are plenty of UPF 50+ sun accessories to choose from, including plenty right here at UV Skinz.
Keep your face, neck, chest, and arms protected with neck gaiters, sun hats, sun scarves, and more. Don't forget polarized sunglasses and sunscreen as well!
If you need more inspiration for stylish UPF clothing to protect your skin, shop UV Skinz today.
