UV-STOP
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Many people think that diving into a swimming pool or the sea offers complete protection from the sun. The cool water on your skin masks the heat, making it less likely that you will notice you are getting burnt. However, this is a dangerous misconception. It is a fact that UV radiation penetrates water, meaning that your skin is still exposed to harmful rays even below the surface. Find out more about UV radiation and water in this article.
Clear water allows a large proportion of ultraviolet radiation to pass through, sometimes to a depth of several meters. Even when you are completely submerged, the invisible rays can reach your skin. The clearer the water, the deeper the radiation can penetrate. This means that snorkelers and swimmers are just as much at risk of skin damage as people sunbathing on the beach.
In addition to the radiation that enters the water, reflection plays a major role at the water’s edge. The surface of the water acts as a kind of mirror that reflects the sun’s rays. This increases the intensity of the sun on your body. So you actually get double the radiation. You get radiation directly from the sun and indirectly via the reflection on the water. This explains why you often burn much faster near or on the water than in your backyard.
Normal sunscreen will slowly lose its effectiveness in water and can wash off. This makes it important to be careful. By using UV-STOP Protection Wash, you can make your clothing UV-resistant. This is a smart and effective solution for the whole family. It is advisable to re-treat your clothing with UV-STOP Protection Wash after a day of swimming to ensure that the protection continues to work as effectively as possible.
By choosing UV-STOP, you don’t have to reapply sunscreen as often on covered body parts and can enjoy a carefree day at the beach or pool. Combining good clothing with a water-resistant sunscreen for uncovered skin is the best way to prevent skin damage.
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UV-STOP
Does cold water protect against sunburn?
No, cold water does not protect against the sun. It only cools the skin, which means that you will notice the warning signs of sunburn (such as a warm or stinging sensation) much later.
How much UV radiation passes through water?
This depends on the clarity of the water, but on average up to 40% of UV radiation can still penetrate to a depth of half a meter. In very clear water, this percentage is often even higher.
Do I need to apply sunscreen if I'm just going swimming?
Yes, it is important to apply sunscreen, even when you go into the water. However, for maximum protection, it is better to choose UV-resistant clothing. With UV-STOP products, you can ensure that your clothing forms a reliable barrier against the sun that does not wash off in the water.
Am I safe from the sun when it is cloudy and I am in the water?
No, that is a common misconception. Both clouds and water allow a large proportion of the harmful rays to pass through. Clouds often only block a small percentage, while the reflection on the water surface actually increases the intensity. Even on a cloudy day, it is therefore wise to protect yourself against UV radiation.