Block UV Rays While Driving To Protect Your Family’s Skin
by Lane Jones, Logan Glass
For the first time ever the US Surgeon General came out with a warning to the public about ultraviolet (UV) radiation.
With melanoma cases almost tripling over the last 30 years, it is becoming more and more important to shield yourself from UV rays. The good news is that there are ways to reduce your UV exposure.
According to Arbitron’s 2009 National In-car study, Americans spend almost 20 hours driving their cars each week, traveling more than 200 miles. Much of this time is during the day when UV rays can come in through vehicle windows. The Skin Cancer Foundation concluded that drivers in the United States receive six times the dose of UV radiation on the left side of their heads, necks, arms and hands as the right side. The Foundation suggested tinting vehicle windows to block 99.9 percent of these UV rays. It was also noted that tinting windows in the home can also help reduce UV exposure.
Dermatologists are also recommending UV protection film. Just as you use sunblock as a skin protectant when visiting the beach, UV film serves as a film protectant when you drive in your car. The right tinting can be like wearing 1000 SPF lotion.
Some tips on choosing the right tint and tint shop:
• Make sure the film blocks 99.9 percent of UV rays
• The shop you choose should offer some type of film warranty against turning purple, bubbling and peeling
• Don’t be fooled by discounted prices as they be signs of the use of inferior film
• Make sure the company is reputable and will still be in business years later, should you need to use your warranty
• Be aware that there are some tinting laws in Utah. A good tint shop can help you conform to those standards
• Ask for film that won’t interfere with your vehicle’s radio antennas (some do!)
