FAQ
Doesn't all clothing protect me from the sun?
No. When you are out at the beach or sitting a cafe and throw on a cover-up for shade, you are still exposed to harmful UV rays that penetrate regular clothing. Clothes aren’t protecting you in your everyday life and we want to change this in a fashionable way!
Why is sun protective clothing important?
Signs of aging and skin cancers are caused by sun damage. Sun protective clothing, certified to have an adequate UPF, can be worn for both anti-aging and health purposes. It's the perfect addition to any smart, well-rounded wardrobe.
What is UPF?
UPF stands for Ultraviolet Protection Factor and indicates how much of the sun’s UV rays are absorbed by the fabric before it reaches your skin. A UPF rating of 50 means that only 1/50th (or 1 %) of the UV radiation (both UVA and UVB rays) can penetrate fabric, thus indicating how effective the clothing is from blocking UV rays.
What is the difference between UPF and SPF?
SPF stands for Sun Protection Factor and is used for rating sunscreens and other sun-protective products. It measures the amount of time it takes for sun-exposed skin to redden. Meanwhile, UPF measures the amount of UV radiation that penetrates a fabric and reaches the skin.
What are UVA rays?
UVA rays account for 95% of the UV radiation that reaches the earth’s surface. They penetrate through clouds, glass, and clothing. Also, UVA rays are present with relatively equal intensity throughout the year. Although arguably less intense then UVB rays (the burning rays), they are 30-50x more prevalent and sink deeper into the skin's epidermal layer changing its makeup.
What are UVB rays?
UVB rays are the chief cause of skin reddening and sunburn. They also play a role in the development of skin cancer and aging. While UVB rays can burn and damage your skin year-round, they do not penetrate glass or clothing.
Should I be worried about vitamin D deficiencies?
Some studies assert that practicing safe sun habits can lead to a vitamin D deficiency. It is true that UV radiation stimulates the body to manufacture vitamin D. However, overexposure to UV rays can weaken your immune system, reducing your defense against infection and cancers. So, one of the best ways to meet vitamin D daily requirements is through multivitamin supplements (1,000 - 2,000International Units (IU) daily).
If I have dark skin am I immune to skin cancer?
No. Skin cancer does not discriminate. Though caucasians are more likely to develop skin cancer, people with darker skin color are also susceptible to the disease. In fact, Asian-Americans and African-Americans tend to have more advanced cases of melanoma at diagnosis, which can account for higher mortality rates.
What are the ABCDEs of Melanoma?
The first five letters of the alphabet are a guide to the early warning signs of melanoma:
A= asymmetry, B= border, C= color, D= diameter, E= evolving (or changing)
How do I care for my Mott 50 garments?
To maintain the UPF levels in the fabric, please follow the wash and care instructions on the inside of the garment. Clothing should be machine washed and line dried. This will ensure the integrity of the UPF level for the lifetime of the garment.
Where is Mott 50 sold?
Along with a thriving e-commerce business, Mott 50 sells its pieces in boutiques across the country. For a full list of boutiques in your area email
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.
How do I make a return?
Merchandise can be returned or exchanged within 30 days of purchase in a state that's not worn, altered, or washed. Please mail returns to: Mott 50 Returns Department; 954 W Washington Blvd; Suite 620; Chicago, IL 60607. Or email
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for a UPS easy return slip (free for exchanges, debit $9 for returns).
Do you ship internationally?
Yes! Please note our Terms: www.mott50.com/terms
Where is your clothing made?
We proudly produce over 80% of our current collection in the USA.
