Alex Ram

Cases of melanoma continue to rise even as the cases of many other cancer types are in decline. If one is seeking safe and comfortable protection from the sun's rays, should they opt for a swim shirt or sunscreen as the better alternative?From the simple freedom of movement standpoint, sunscreen comes closest to acting as a second skin. There are no clothing-drag issues while in the water, and no layers to trap heat or restrain movement while on land. It is possible to forget there is any substance on the skin at all.When it comes to covering all skin surfaces, shirts cannot compete with sunscreen. If used conscientiously, lotion can cover ears, hands and be applied partially underneath clothes for a continuous barrier. Even with long-sleeve shirts, hands are not covered and skin around the waist is often accidentally exposed.The health and safety of the actual product is an important consideration. Commercial sunscreens contain toxins that can irritate skin and affect hormone production, placing children at particular risk. While most swim shirts are treated for UV protection, they do not expose the skin to potentially dangerous chemicals.One clear advantage of swim shirts is that they will not wash off the skin. While a layer of lotion can wear down, a shirt is either on or off. When monitoring children, the level of sunscreen protection is almost undetectable while a shirt is easily verified.As a sweltering summer day may make a shirt less inviting, likewise a cool day at the beach will make the extra insulation a welcome friend. Swim shirts are functional on land and in the water and dry very quickly. They can be worn all day and placed in the laundry like regular clothing.Many sun lotions carry extra ingredients to help repair damaged skin. Protection from the sun and the renewal of dry or burned skin take place simultaneously. Swim shirts on their own do not provide this added benefit, though skincare products can always be purchased and applied underneath the shirt.Instructions on sunscreen often tell the user to apply the product generously over exposed skin. With this approach, families can empty containers at a rapid rate. Swim shirts eliminate the constant need for more lotion and can last as long as a regular shirt with average use and proper care.For UV protection with the least risk and greatest effectiveness, swim shirts are a better solution. At the same time, a lotion can cover all skin surfaces and combine protection with skin care. Given a goal of speed, economy, and no exposed areas of skin, a combination of both with some overlap is the top choice for a healthy day in the sun.