What is UPF - and Why Should You Care?

Let’s be real — we all know about SPF. It’s been drilled into us since that first sunburn. But here’s the thing: sun protection doesn’t stop with sunscreen. In fact, the chicest way to protect your skin might just be what you wear.

Enter: UPF.

So... What Is UPF, Anyway?

UPF stands for Ultraviolet Protection Factor, and it tells you how much UV radiation a fabric blocks from reaching your skin.

Think of it as SPF’s cooler, more reliable cousin — because UPF protects against both UVA and UVB rays (not just the burny ones).

At HELLO SHADE™, we only use UPF 50+ fabric — which means our sleeves block over 98% of harmful rays. Translation: your arms, wrists, and hands are safe, shaded, and still looking cute.

How Does UPF Protection Work?

Not all fabrics are created equal — especially when it comes to sun protection. Here’s what makes UPF fabrics more effective:

✔ Fabric Construction – Tighter weaves = less sun sneaking through
✔ Material – Nylon and spandex (like ours) tend to outperform basics like cotton
✔ Color – Darker or bolder shades often absorb more UV
✔ Special Treatments – Some textiles are treated for extra UV-blocking power

The right fabric does the heavy lifting so you don’t have to slather your forearms in SPF every 90 minutes.

UPF vs. SPF — What’s the Difference?

Let’s break it down:

• SPF is for sunscreen. It mostly protects against UVB (burn) rays — but you have to reapply it constantly.

• UPF is for clothing. It protects against both UVA (aging) and UVB (burning) rays — and doesn’t sweat off.

• UPF 50+ lets only 2% of UV rays through. So yes, it’s that good.

Why UPF Sleeves Are Your New Summer Essential

You’ve got your SPF for your face, but your arms and hands? Usually forgotten, usually exposed, and usually the first to show signs of sun damage.

That’s where we come in.

HELLO SHADE™ sun sleeves are made with buttery-soft, breathable, cooling fabric that keeps your skin covered without cramping your style. No mess, no chemicals, no reapplication required.

Wear them while you drive, hike, brunch, or boss up at the farmer’s market.

Sun Protection, But Make It Cute

Let’s be honest: you deserve sun protection that fits your life and your look.
Our sleeves are proof that you don’t have to choose between safety and style.

Ready to ditch the sticky sunscreen and keep it shady?

 🔗 [Shop HELLO SHADE UPF 50+ sun sleeves now - thank us later]