Sun block clothing, which was very popular in Australia before it came to the shores of the United States, must be used as adjunct protection with the usual sunscreens and sunblocks. In this way, you have higher levels of protection from the sun's harmful rays, which we should all know by now are very dangerous to our health. So many Americans are suffering from skin cancer either because of sheer ignorance or, worse, blatant disregard for the sun's power.

Today in the United States, the available sun block clothing undergoes a stricter testing protocol involving the three main aspects of fabric longevity, washability and abrasion. Also, ultraviolet protection factor (UPF) is now also used on sun protection clothing designed for the outdoors.

As in all things related to sun protection, not every sun block outfit is created equal. You have to choose the best one that will suit your needs where age, activity and time of use are concerned.

Age Factor

First, let's discuss the age. Keep in mind that even the best sun block clothes cannot provide protection for an infant below 6 months of age. You have no business exposing these young babies to the sun for long periods of time since their very delicate skin have yet to produce sufficient amounts of melanin.

It is a different story for children above 6 months and for teenagers and adults, too. Along with the usual sunscreens, it is highly imperative to wear sun block clothing including shirts, pants and hats as well as swimwear.

Activity Factor

You should also choose based on the activity. Ask the salesclerk for information about the UPF of a certain piece of clothing. As with sunscreens, the higher the UPF, the better the UV protection offered.

Plus, there is also the matter of the place where you will be wearing the clothes. For example, if you are a driver, you must wear gloves to protect your hands, too. Or if you are a swimmer, go for swimsuits with UPF factors as well as cover-ups when out in the sun.

Time Factor

The time of day when the sun block apparel will be used also affects choice. Understandably, you will want to go in lightweight summery fabrics during the warm seasons and heavier fabrics during the cold months.

Well, just remember the following general rules about sun protection clothing and you will not go wrong in your choices:

• Darker colors offer more protection that lighter hues. Thus, in summer, you can opt for darker shades of your favorite cover-ups instead of the usual white.

• Full coverage of skin most vulnerable to skin damage is preferred than scant coverage. Go for full collars and long sleeves in tops and full-length trousers and skirts in bottoms especially when you will be exposed for longer periods of time.

• Certain fabrics are better at UV protection than others. For example, cotton, linen, polyester, nylon, hemp, and Lycra are good at sun protection although you also have to consider the time of day and the activity in which you will be wearing these fabrics.

Sun block clothing is an excellent investment in your health. You can enjoy whatever the activity with the assurance that protection from the sun is right where you need it - with you and on your body.