Window Sun Protection

The sun sustains life and feels good, but it can be your skin’s worst enemy. While every sunburn can increase your risk of skin cancer, it’s not just those big days at the beach or ballgame that cause trouble. Each time you run out to get the mail, walk the dog or commute to work without sun protection also adds to the damage that can lead to skin cancer (as well as leathery skin, dark spots and wrinkles).  

No single method of sun defense can protect you perfectly, though. The best path to beautiful, healthy skin is to adopt as many of these steps as possible into your lifestyle, and make them daily habits everywhere you go, all year long.

Look Out for Windows 

While glass blocks UVB rays pretty well, it allows UVA rays to pass through. This is true of your windows at home as well as on the road.  Car windshields are treated to shield drivers from most UVA rays, but side, back and sunroof windows usually aren’t. When you’re in your car, protect yourself and your family with hats, clothing, sunglasses, sunscreen, whatever it takes. 

Another option is to have UV-protective window film applied to windows, in your car or at home.  The windows on airplanes, trains and buses also allow UVA rays to pass through. That’s why airline pilots, crew members and even frequent travelers may get more skin cancers than other people.  

The pitfall: You need to plan ahead before traveling and make sure you have sunscreen on and protective clothing with you.