how your outfit choice ups cancer risk

Key Points:

• May 1, known as Met Gala Monday, also marks "Melanoma Monday," the start of Skin Cancer Awareness Month, highlighting the importance of sun protection amid rising skin cancer rates.
• Dermatologist Gloria Lin advises choosing fabrics like polyester, nylon, merino wool, denim, and corduroy over cotton and linen for better UV protection, while avoiding crochet, lace, and mesh that allow UV rays to penetrate.
• Clothing coverage and fit matter; looser, darker, and more intensely colored garments provide better protection, with tight clothing potentially allowing more UV exposure due to stretched fibers.
• UPF-rated clothing (50+) blocks about 98% of UV rays, and many stylish options are available, but protective treatments may degrade with washing, so proper care and label checking are essential.
• Accessories like wide-brimmed hats, sunglasses, and UV umbrellas enhance protection, especially for vulnerable areas like the scalp, face, ears, and neck, complementing daily sunscreen use to reduce cumulative UV exposure.