Major Shade, Major Statement: Dr. Shereene Idriss Makes Sun Protection Fashionable (& Fierce)

Dermatologist, truth-teller, and unapologetic skincare educator, Dr. Shereene Idriss has long been a social media darling for her myth-busting, no-nonsense approach to skin health. Her latest move? Taking her message from your skincare shelf to your wardrobe—with the launch of her first-ever UPF 50+ rashguard: the Major Shade Multi-Play Rashguard.

This isn’t just another merch drop—it’s the dermatologist-approved answer to the sun protection conversation we should be having.

“Sun protection doesn’t end with SPF,” Dr. Idriss explains. “We all know reapplying sunscreen every two hours can be a pain—especially if you’re a mom juggling kids, snacks, and life. That’s where passive protection comes in.”

Enter the rashguard. Designed to block 98% of UVA/UVB rays, it’s a lightweight, zip-up essential created with Dr. Idriss’ signature lavender hue and crisp white paneling. It looks like a sleek workout top but functions like full-body sunscreen—minus the need to reapply.

More Than Skin Deep

Behind every stitch of the Major Shade Rashguard is a foundation of dermatologic science and thoughtful design. “Most people don’t realize a regular white T-shirt only offers about a UPF of 5,” she says. “That means up to 20% of harmful rays are still getting through. This rashguard? It’s UPF 50+, which means serious protection, plus extras like thumbholes, a high collar, and a breathable, cool-touch fabric that dries fast.”

Whether you’re biking around town, heading to the beach, or running errands, the Rashguard is built to slot into your everyday wardrobe. “This isn’t just a beach piece—it’s a lifestyle staple,” she insists. “Throw it on like a light jacket, and you’ve upgraded your sun routine without even thinking about it.”

And she practices what she preaches. “You’ll see me every Saturday morning on my Instagram stories announcing my new YouTube video—wearing my rashguard.”

Changing the Sun-Safety Narrative

Dr. Idriss is on a mission to make smart skin habits look good. Why? Because for younger audiences especially, fashion is the gateway drug to better habits. “If it looks good, they’ll wear it. If it feels good, they’ll live in it,” she says. “So why not design sun protection that checks both boxes?”

But her dedication to truth goes beyond style. She’s tired of hearing the persistent myth that sunscreen causes cancer. “That’s not just wrong—it’s dangerous,” she says. “What actually increases your risk of skin cancer? UV exposure. Sunscreen is one of the most well-studied tools we have to prevent it.”

And her rashguard isn’t here to replace SPF—it’s here to support it. “It’s passive protection that doesn’t rely on perfect application or reapplication. You zip it on, and you’re protected.”

A Wardrobe for the Real World

For Idriss, whose Major Fade skincare line continues to sell out for its clinically driven, crowd-approved formulas, developing clothing that works just as hard was a natural next step. “My community influences everything I do,” she says. “They’re juggling real life and real skin concerns. They want solutions that are practical and realistic.”

“I’m not anti-glow,” she adds. “I’m anti-burning-for-it. Lather on that self-tanner and wear the damn sunscreen.”

And for those who still think sun protection is a summer-only thing? Think again. “UV rays don’t take a vacation. They’re there in winter, they’re there when it’s cloudy, and they’re bouncing off snow. The little daily doses of UV? They add up. Protecting your skin isn’t seasonal—it’s a lifestyle.”

So, Who’s It For?

Everyone. But especially those looking for skin-savvy style. Available in sizes XS–XL, the Major Shade Rashguard is a body-hugging fit (Dr. Idriss recommends sizing up for a looser feel) and retails for $106 CAD. Whether you’re a skincare nerd, a sun-phobe, or someone just tired of slathering SPF on your shoulders all day, this one’s for you.

“It’s protective. It’s functional. It’s chic,” says Dr. Idriss. “Because you shouldn’t have to choose between your skin and your style.”

Sun safety? So fetch. —Noa Nichol