A textile material exhibiting enhanced energy absorption (e.g., enhanced near-infrared energy absorption) and, optionally, flame resistance. The textile material comprises a textile substrate and a finish disposed on at least one surface of the textile substrate. The finish comprises a binder and an energy-absorbing agent. A method for protecting an individual from infrared radiation that can be generated during an arc flash comprises the step of positioning a textile material between an individual and an apparatus capable of producing an arc flash.