LONDON, May 30, 2009 (UPI via COMTEX) -- A new swimsuit material that lets 80
percent of the sun penetrate to the skin could contribute to deadly forms of
skin cancer, British health experts said.
The material, meant to eliminate tan-lines, has thousands of microscopic holes
in the fabric that make it transparent, said John Walker, who owns Kiniki, the
maker of the Tan Through fabric.
When looked at, the material appears solid because of abstract patterns and
prints that confuse the eye, Walker said.
Walker's company warns wearers of Tan Through to be vigilant in applying
sunscreen under the material. Health experts, however, said many wearers likely
will be less than judicious in protecting tender skin, The Daily Telegraph
reported Saturday.
"We recommend UV protected clothing and this is the very opposite," said Richard
Clifford, a spokesman for the Karen Clifford Skin cancer charity.
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