Safeguarding Against the Sun While Driving
Driving often leads to substantial sun exposure, urging the need for effective sun protection measures.
When discussing sunlight, it’s crucial to understand the sun’s ultraviolet radiation. UVA and UVB pose the greatest risk for sun damage, which can lead to skin cancer.
So, what is your car’s role when it comes to the sun’s rays? Car windows mainly block UVB rays, and windshields, made from laminated glass, stop more than 90% of UVA radiation, according to the Skin Cancer Foundation. However, the remaining auto glass is typically tempered glass, thereby allowing some UVA radiation to pass to your skin. This fact explains why skin cancers are more prevalent on the body’s left side, usually because drivers have a left-side window exposure.
Does Any Car Glass Prevent All UV Light?
UV reduction inside your car can be achieved by applying UV-protective films or tinting your vehicle’s windows. This process can block nearly 100% UV radiation, but remember to verify state laws regarding windshield tinting. Also, ensure your safety cameras aren’t obscured by the tinting. The Skin Cancer Foundation endorses these kinds of products—window films that meet skin damage prevention standards to discourage skin cancer.
Should Sunscreen Be Worn While Driving?
Applying a wide-spectrum sunscreen (minimum SPF 15 for brief drives or SPF 30+ for extended durations) and wearing long sleeves and sunglasses can decrease your skin cancer risk. Apply your sunscreen half an hour before you leave and reapply every two hours. Also, secure your lips from skin cancer by using SPF 30+ sunscreen-infused lip balm or lipstick.
Sunscreens have a sun protection factor (SPF) that gauges their UV-blocking capacity. The higher the SPF, the more the UV protection, but complete protection is unachievable.
Store your sunscreen outside your car to ensure it doesn't degrade due to extreme temperatures.
Is Skin The Sole Concern of Auto Sun Exposure?
UV rays can harm your eyes, too. To guard against these damaging rays, wear sunglasses while driving. Choose UV 400-rated lenses, which filter 99.9% of UVA and UVB light.
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