Important: Using Sunscreen When Flying
Flying in an aircraft may not be the first thing that comes to mind when thinking about sun protection, but it is a crucial practice to maintain healthy skin. While you might be surprised, UV radiation can penetrate aircraft cabins, exposing passengers to harmful rays during their flight. In this post, we'll discuss why using sunscreen while flying is essential and some additional tips for staying protected.
UV Radiation on Airplanes
UV radiation levels on airplanes depend on several factors, including:
- Altitude: The higher the altitude, the more intense the UV radiation.
- Seat location: UV radiation can be stronger near windows and in unpressurized areas of the aircraft.
- Duration of flight: Longer flights increase the amount of time spent exposed to UV radiation.
The good news is that most modern commercial planes have double-pane windows and other features designed to reduce UV radiation, making the risk lower than when driving or spending time at the beach. However, it's still essential to take precautions to protect your skin.
Protecting Your Skin During Flights
- Use sunscreen: Apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher before your flight. Reapply every two hours or immediately after sweating or swimming.
- Wear protective clothing: If possible, wear long-sleeved shirts, pants, and skirts made from tightly woven fabric to minimize exposure.
- Stay hydrated: Dehydration can make your skin more susceptible to UV damage, so be sure to drink plenty of water during your flight.
- Avoid direct sunlight: If possible, choose a seat away from windows and avoid spending prolonged periods in unpressurized areas of the aircraft.
- Use other protective measures: Consider using additional sun protection like hats, sunglasses, and lip balms with SPF to enhance your protection.
Conclusion
Though UV radiation exposure on airplanes may be less intense than during outdoor activities, it's still essential to take necessary precautions to protect your skin while flying. By following these simple steps, you can maintain healthy, youthful-looking skin during your travels and reduce the risk of developing harmful sun damage.
Safe travels and happy flying!