Can You Tan Through a Window?: Sun Myths Debunked

Yes you can. The glass used in car windows is designed to filter out UV radiation, however it does a far from perfect job. The front windshield typically blocks most UVA and UVB radiation, whilst the sunroof and windows typically let more through - meaning you are more likely to tan or burn from above or to the side than from head on.

A study from 2016 has shown that the car windshield blocks up to 96% of UVA rays vs. only 71% blocked by the drivers side window*. There are also multiple studies that show individuals who spend a lot of their life driving have an increased risk of UV-induced skin damage.

^{*Brian S Boxer Wachler, Assessment of Levels of Ultraviolet A Light Protection in Automobile Windshields and Side Windows. JAMA Ophthalmol. 2016 Jul 1;134(7):772-5.}

People who spend a significant amount of time driving, such as truck, delivery or taxi drivers are at an increased risk of sun damage through car windows. All spend long hours on the road with significant sun exposure and are advised to reapply sunscreen regularly due to prolonged sun exposure through windows. Particular attention should be paid to the drivers side forearm and face as these are usually the most exposed.

Those working from home or in glass buildings can be exposed to significant amounts of sunlight, especially during certain times of the day. Those who work near windows should apply sunscreen to exposed skin or use window coverings to reduce UV exposure.

1. Myth 1: You can repair the damage done by sunburn with aftersun products
   While aftersun products can provide relief by moisturising and cooling the skin, it's important to note that they do not reverse the skin damage caused by sunburn. 
2. Myth 2: The sun is strongest when it’s hottest
   The intensity of the sun's UV radiation is not solely determined by the temperature. The sun is typically strongest during the solar noon, which is when the sun is at its highest point in the sky. This doesn't necessarily coincide with the hottest part of the day.
3. Myth 3: Tinted windows provide complete UV protection
   Tinted windows reduce visible light and heat but don't guarantee complete UV protection. Check tint specifications, as some UV radiation may still penetrate.
4. Myth 4: Sunscreen lasts all day
   Sunscreen lasting all day is a common misconception that can lead to increased long-term skin damage. Sunscreen is most effective when applied consistently throughout the day.
5. Myth 5: Sunscreen doesn’t expire
   Sunscreens have an expiration date. You can check your sunscreen for a small open jar icon on the packaging, with the number of months the product can be used after opening.
6. Myth 6: People with darker skin don’t get sunburnt
   All types of skin can get sunburnt, including darker skin. People with lighter skin tones will appear red, sore, and swollen. Darker skin tones might not change colour but may feel irritated, tender, itchy, and sore.
7. Myth 7: When you have sunburnt once, the damage is done
   Experiencing sunburn doesn't guarantee the onset of skin cancer. This heightened risk stems from the accumulation of unrepaired damage over time. Safeguarding your skin by seeking shade, covering up, and applying sunscreen can minimise your risk as much as possible.

Protective clothing: clothing is your first line of defence. Hats, sunglasses, and lightweight, long-sleeved clothing can shield you from UV rays.

Timing matters: try to avoid the sun's peak intensity between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. If you're outdoors, seek shade whenever possible and reapply sunscreen throughout the day.

Body Sunscreen: Protect your body with sunscreen, especially the body parts exposed to the sun often e.g. your hands and neck. 

Face sunscreen: apply face sunscreen daily as a proactive measure to safeguard your skin both indoors and outdoors. Discover NIVEA Invisible Daily Fluid SPF 50+, enriched with Licochalcone, a powerful antioxidant, while also being an ultra-light fluid formula, non-greasy, and leaving no white residue.

Protect from Further Sun Exposure:
While your skin is healing, it's crucial to protect it from further sun exposure. Stay in the shade, wear protective clothing, and apply sunscreen with a high SPF to any exposed skin when going outside. 

Go to the Emergency Room
In cases of severe overexposure to the sun, go directly to the hospital for professional medical attention.

Daily sun protection is essential to shielding the skin from the sun's harmful UV rays. Whether you are exposing skin to sunlight through windows or are enjoying a day at the beach, using sunscreen helps to minimise the impact of sun damage on skin.

The extensive range of NIVEA SUN care products contains multiple application formats with SPF’s up to 50+. From traditional sun cream lotions that nourish and hydrate skin, such as the NIVEA SUN Protect & Moisture Lotion SPF 50+, to face specific solutions that also help to target skin concerns, such as the NIVEA SUN UV Face Specialist Dark Spot Control Fluid SPF50+. 

Uncover NIVEA SUN Daily Protect SPF 50+, enriched with antioxidants such as Liquorice extract and Vitamin E to help protect the skin and Hyaluronic Acid for smooth-looking skin, in a utlra-lightweight formula for normal to combination skin, ideal for daily application.