Why Dermatologists Are Talking About UPF Clothing for Teens
Think about a typical spring afternoon. Teens are hanging out at the park, biking to a friend's house, walking home from school, heading to practice. The sun's out, the weather's finally warm, and the last thing on anyone's mind is sun protection.
But here’s the thing: while teens are out there living their best lives, their skin is soaking up UV rays that could affect them for decades to come.
We get it. Talking to teens about skin damage falls on deaf ears. But what if sun protection didn't feel like a chore? What if it could actually be part of their style—something that feels good, looks cool, and does something powerful, all at the same time?
That’s where UPF clothing comes in. At JOJU, we think of sun shirts as quiet superheroes: protecting young skin day in and day out, without interrupting life, adventure, or self-expression. In fact, we believe UPF clothing should be a staple in every teen’s closet. Here's why...
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Why Sun protection is Especially Important for Teen Skin
Dermatologists often compare sun damage to a savings account: the earlier you deposit, the more it compounds. Unfortunately, with UV damage, those "deposits" come at a cost. Research shows that just one blistering sunburn during adolescence can double the risk of developing melanoma later in life.
Teenagers, with their still-developing skin and increased time outdoors, are particularly susceptible. Their skin is thinner than adult skin, and their habits are still forming. Teaching them to think of sun protection as part of their wellness routine is a mindset shift that can last a lifetime.
“Up to 80% of lifetime sun exposure happens before age 20. Encouraging teens to wear UPF clothing is one of the simplest, most effective ways to reduce their risk of skin cancer and premature aging.”
The Mental Shift: From Skin Fixation to Skin Preservation
What is UPF Clothing?
Ultraviolet Protection Factor (UPF) clothing is designed to block harmful UV rays from penetrating fabric and reaching the skin. Unlike sunscreen, which needs frequent reapplication and can rub off with sweat or water, UPF clothing offers reliable, all-day protection. JOJU's luxury UPF 50+ shirts block 98% of UVA and UVB rays, offering peace of mind with every wear.
Our sun shirts are engineered for performance and style. They breathe. They stretch. They move with teens through every jump shot, hike, beach day and every weekend errand. JOJU focuses on modern silhouettes, athletic fits and contemporary color palettes. These aren't boxy "sun shirts" from the '90s. They're sleek, versatile layers that look just as good on a paddleboard as they do at the smoothie bar.
Teen beauty culture has typically centered around acne, makeup and achieving the "perfect glow."—But what if the next frontier is about protecting rather than perfecting skin?
There is a new wave of teens who are skincare-savvy and wellness-curious. They follow dermatologists on TikTok, they know the difference between niacinamide and salicylic acid and they are looking for ways to support their skin holistically. UPF clothing fits naturally into that conversation. It’s a proactive step teens can take every day—one that doesn’t require a 12-step routine.
SUN SHIRTS TEENS WANT TO WEAR
“We see patients in their 30s and 40s with sun damage that started in their teen years. A UPF sun shirt is like daily sunscreen you don’t have to think about—and that’s a game-changer for teens.”
How Parents Can Encourage a Habit of Skin Preservation
Sun protection can be a tough sell, especially when teens are navigating identity, independence and social pressure. But like any good habit, it starts with access and encouragement.
Gift your teen a sun shirt he or she wants to wear—not one that ends up in the back of the closet. Normalize wearing long sleeves on hikes, bike rides and beach days. Celebrate their choices when they prioritize wellness. And perhaps most importantly, model the behavior yourself.
Parents who wear UPF clothing, reapply sunscreen and talk openly about skin health send a powerful message: taking care of yourself is strong and smart.
3 Benefits of Teens Wearing a Sun Shirt
- All Day UV Protection. UPF 50+ sun shirts block up to 98% of harmful UVA and UVB rays, helping prevent sunburns, long-term skin damage and future skin cancer—without sunscreen or reapplication.
- Low-Maintenance Skincare. No more stressing about reapplying sunscreen every two hours. A sun shirt protects automatically—just throw it on and go.
- Built for Active Lives. UPF shirts are lightweight, breathable and designed to move . Perfect for active teens who spend time outdoors.
Teen Skin & Sun Care: FAQ
Why do I need sun protection if I’m young and healthy?
Most sun damage happens before age 20, and it adds up. A little protection now = major skin wins later (think fewer wrinkles, fewer spots and lower risk of skin cancer).
Can’t I just wear sunscreen? Why bother with UPF clothing?
Sunscreen is great—but it sweats off, rubs off and requires reapplication every two hours. UPF clothing is like a set-it-and-forget-it sun shield.
What does “UPF” mean?
UPF stands for Ultraviolet Protection Factor (think of it as SPF for clothing). It measures how well fabric blocks UV rays. JOJU's UPF 50+ shirts block 98% of UV radiation.
Will wearing UPF clothing make me hot?
No. JOJU sun shirts are lightweight, breathable and moisture-wicking , so you stay cool—even on hot days. They’re made to move with you, whether you’re biking, skating, hiking or just hanging out.
What if I want to tan?
Tans = sun damage. We know the glow looks good, but it’s actually your skin’s SOS signal. If you love that sun-kissed look, try a bronzing lotion or self-tanner that’s safe and UV-free.
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Conclusion
Teenagers are constantly evolving—learning who they are, how to take care of themselves and how to express their values. What they wear is part of that identity. At JOJU, we believe that protecting your skin can be a statement of strength, self-awareness and self care.
A UPF sun shirt may is a shield, a choice and a daily reminder that wellness isn’t just about what you put on your skin—it’s about what you keep off it. Encouraging teens to wear UPF clothing protects their confidence, their health and the skin they’ll grow into.
The Author: JOJU Sun Shirts
JOJU is a line of luxury sun protective clothing. We make buttery soft, ultra lightweight UPF 50+ sun shirts for men, women & teens. We believe in the power of time spent outdoors and the importance of sun safety. Our mission is to inspire people to enjoy the outdoors - safely and comfortably.
