UPF
Medical abbreviation · Dermatology
| Stands for | Ultraviolet protection factor |
|---|---|
| Categories | Medical |
UPF stands for Ultraviolet protection factor, a dermatology abbreviation.
Rating for sun-protective clothing and fabrics indicating how much ultraviolet radiation passes through. A UPF 50 fabric lets through only about one-fiftieth (2 percent) of UV radiation, and labels typically use ratings of 15 to 50+.
Example: Kids' swim shirts rated UPF 50+ block about 98 percent of UV rays.
Usage notes
Unlike SPF, which applies to sunscreen on skin, UPF measures both UVA and UVB transmission through fabric. Australia and New Zealand introduced a fabric standard in 1996, and US labeling uses ASTM and AATCC methods. Tight weaves, dark colors and dry fabric give higher protection; a white cotton T-shirt offers far less.
Related abbreviations
More dermatology abbreviations
- AA – Alopecia areata
- ABCDE – Asymmetry, Border, Color, Diameter, Evolving (melanoma warning signs)
- ACD – Allergic contact dermatitis
- AD – Atopic dermatitis
- AGA – Androgenetic alopecia
- AGEP – Acute generalized exanthematous pustulosis
- AK – Actinic keratosis
- BCC – Basal cell carcinoma
- BP – Bullous pemphigoid
- CSU – Chronic spontaneous urticaria
- CTCL – Cutaneous T-cell lymphoma
- DH – Dermatitis herpetiformis
See all 52 dermatology abbreviations →
This entry is for general education and is not medical advice. Abbreviation use varies between institutions; always confirm in context.