‍"SPF you apply fades. SPF you wear stays."

Sun-protective clothing provides continuous protection for as long as you're wearing it, unlike sunscreen, which needs to be reapplied throughout the day.

Clothing is rated using UPF (Ultraviolet Protection Factor) rather than SPF. UPF 50 fabrics block approximately 98% of UVA and UVB rays, creating a reliable physical barrier against the sun.

It's important to remember that UPF clothing does not replace sunscreen—they work together. Think of them as complementary layers of protection. Wear UPF clothing whenever possible and apply broad-spectrum sunscreen to any exposed skin.

Most UPF clothing maintains its protection for 50–60 washes, though this varies by manufacturer. Always check the garment's care label for specific guidance and replace it when the protective rating is no longer effective.

Recommended UPF Clothing

For Kids

• Coolibar Toddler Coco Plum Everyday Long Sleeve T-Shirt – A lightweight UPF shirt that's perfect for toddlers and little adventurers.
• REI Co-op Kids Sahara Shade Hoodie – A breathable hoodie designed for outdoor play and sun protection.

For Women

• Lands' End Women's SunShade UPF 50 Rash Guard – Great for swimming, boating, and beach days.
• Solbari Women's UPF 50+ Sun Protective Shrug – Lightweight coverage that's easy to layer over everyday clothing.
• Coolibar Women's Ocean Drive Cover-Up with Front Tie – Stylish sun protection for the pool or beach.

For Men

• REI Co-op Sahara Shade Hoodie – A lightweight UPF hoodie ideal for hiking, fishing, travel, and everyday outdoor activities.

Inside-Out Skin Protection: Why Heliocare Advanced May Be Worth Considering

While sunscreen and protective clothing are your first line of defense, some people choose to add an extra layer of protection from within.

Heliocare Advanced is a daily oral dietary supplement designed to support your skin's resilience against sun exposure and free-radical damage. It is intended to complement sunscreen and other sun-safe habits—not replace them.

Key Ingredients

Fernblock® (Polypodium leucotomos Extract)

• 240 mg per serving
• Plant-derived antioxidant
• Helps reduce oxidative stress caused by UV exposure
• Supports the skin's natural defense mechanisms

Fernblock® is extracted from a tropical fern known for its natural ability to withstand environmental stress. Research suggests it may help reduce markers of UV-induced skin damage.

Nicotinamide (Vitamin B3)

• 500 mg per serving
• Non-flushing form of vitamin B3
• Supports skin cell repair and energy production

Nicotinamide has strong clinical evidence supporting its role in reducing the occurrence of certain non-melanoma skin cancers, particularly in high-risk individuals when taken at therapeutic doses under medical supervision.

How Does Heliocare Work?

Rather than blocking UV rays like sunscreen, Heliocare helps support the skin by:

• Reducing oxidative stress caused by UV exposure
• Providing antioxidant and anti-inflammatory benefits
• Supporting cellular repair
• Helping maintain healthier skin over time

Who May Benefit?

Heliocare Advanced is commonly recommended for people who:

• Have significant sun exposure due to work or outdoor activities
• Have a history of sun damage or actinic keratoses
• Have previously been diagnosed with non-melanoma skin cancer
• Want additional antioxidant support alongside topical sun protection

Potential Benefits

Research suggests Heliocare may:

• Support the skin's natural defenses against UV damage
• Help reduce inflammation caused by sun exposure
• Promote healthier skin cell function
• Complement sunscreen and protective clothing
• Support long-term skin health

For people with melasma, Heliocare may also:

• Help reduce UV-triggered pigmentation
• Provide antioxidant support
• Reduce inflammatory triggers
• Enhance results when combined with other treatments

However, it is not a standalone treatment for melasma and should be used as part of a comprehensive treatment plan.

Important Considerations

Heliocare is not a substitute for:

• Broad-spectrum sunscreen
• UPF clothing
• Hats and sunglasses
• Seeking shade
• Avoiding peak UV hours

Like any dietary supplement, Heliocare may not be appropriate for everyone. Pregnancy, breastfeeding, liver disease, certain medications, and other medical conditions may require physician guidance before use.

The Bottom Line

Think of Heliocare Advanced as an additional layer of protection—not your primary one.

The foundation of healthy sun protection will always be:

• Broad-spectrum sunscreen
• UPF clothing
• Sun-protective habits
• Regular skin examinations

When appropriate, supplements like Heliocare may help support your skin from the inside out, but they work best when combined with a comprehensive sun protection routine.