Do parasol colors and materials affect UV protection? We'll introduce

In recent years, the summer temperatures have been high, and more and more people are using parasols to protect themselves from the heat and UV rays.
Parasols are generally thought of as being used by women, but in recent years they have become more commonly used by men.
In today's harsh summers, a parasol is essential.
If you are purchasing a parasol for the first time, you may be confused about which one to choose as there are so many different colors and materials available.
When choosing a parasol, it is important to consider how well it blocks ultraviolet rays, which cause blemishes and wrinkles.
There are many different designs of parasols, but the effect actually varies greatly depending on the color and material.
Choose your parasol from the perspective we will explain today and take proper measures to protect yourself from UV rays!

What colours are recommended for UV protection?

When choosing a parasol, you may be wondering whether to go for the classic colors of white or black.
Generally speaking, lighter colors allow more UV rays to pass through, while darker colors prevent UV rays from passing through.
From this point of view, the best color for UV protection is black.
White reflects light and blocks UV rays, while black absorbs light and blocks UV rays.
Therefore, it is said that black has a higher UV protection rate .
However, these days, many parasols have been carefully designed to block UV rays, such as with UV coatings and blackout sheets, so there may not be much difference between the different colors.

What are the recommended colors for combating the heat?

If you want to protect yourself from UV rays, we recommend using black for the exterior color, but black absorbs heat, so it is not suitable for keeping out the heat.
On the other hand, white reflects heat as well as light, so heat does not build up inside the umbrella.
Because of these differences in characteristics, we recommend white for people who don't like the heat.
In terms of heat protection, handy-sized fans have become popular in recent years, so I think it's a good idea to use one together with a parasol.

Not only the color on the front but also the color on the back is important! Don't forget to take measures against glare!

UV rays do not only come from the sky, but you also need to be aware of glare from the ground and buildings.
If the inside of the umbrella is white, it will reflect light and cause diffuse reflection, so it is best to avoid white.
To prevent reflected UV rays, the inside should also be black.
In the first place, parasols can block UV rays that shine down from the sky, but it is impossible to block all reflected UV rays.
If you want to be completely protected, wear sunglasses, a mask, and apply plenty of sunscreen.

What materials are recommended for UV protection?

Not only the color but also the material is important.
Parasols are mainly made from polyester, linen, cotton, etc.
Of these , polyester is the most UV resistant material.
By material, polyester blocks UV rays at about 90%, cotton at about 68%, and linen at about 56%.
Parasols are often made from cotton, which has a light texture and a refreshing feel, but if you want to be more effective at protecting yourself from UV rays, try choosing polyester.
In terms of the lifespan of a parasol, cotton is not recommended as the fibers tend to deteriorate easily.

Does a parasol have a lifespan? Is the UV protection effect not permanent?

The surface of a parasol is coated with UV protection ingredients, and the coating will gradually peel off as you use it.
Many of the parasols currently on the market are designed for use in both rain and rain, so using them in rainy weather can cause them to deteriorate more quickly.
It is generally said that parasols need to be replaced every 2 to 3 years , so if this applies to you , we recommend replacing yours before the summer season begins .

How to make your parasol last longer

Even though parasols have a lifespan, you want them to last as long as possible while maintaining their effectiveness.
The most important way to make it last longer is to treat it with care .
For example, if you use it in rainy weather, you should lightly wipe it with a towel and dry it in the shade, and if it gets dirty, you should wipe it off with a microfiber towel or diluted neutral detergent.
Also, since it is sensitive to high temperatures, do not leave it in a car or outside in the summer.

summary

I explained that the ability to protect against UV rays varies greatly depending on the color and material of a parasol.
To summarise the main points so far:

The color that blocks the most UV rays is black
The material with the best UV protection is polyester
・Even parasols have a lifespan! It's best to replace them every 2-3 years!

Nowadays, there are products that have been carefully treated with UV protection, so the difference is not so great, but if you really want to fight UV rays this year, please keep the above points in mind when choosing a parasol!