Protective clothing market sizzles as awareness rises

Manufacturers rake in profits as more people cover up to block harmful UV rays

Wearing a wide-brimmed visor, a pair of sun-protection gloves, a cool-touch face mask and a lightweight yet sunproof hoody has become essential on sunny days for Gao Yuan, who works for a pharmaceutical company in Beijing.

On her way to work, Gao, with a parasol in hand, crosses paths with women wrapped up in a whole package of sunscreen gear from head to toe.

Missing any item would make the 29-year-old woman angry as wearable products for sensitive skin types like hers are more essential than sunscreen to fight off harmful sun exposure.