It is better not to choose the window seat on the plane because of the risks associated with exposure to the sun.
- In airplanes, windows effectively block most UVB rays, which cause sunburn, but not UVA rays.
- UVA rays can “cause premature aging, wrinkles, and contribute to skin cancer.”
- Before flying, sunscreen should be applied.
When booking airline tickets, many people flock to the window seats, because these seats allow both to admire the view and to have a support for a good night’s sleep. But according to Dr. Elisabeth Jones, dermatologist at the Thomas Jefferson University Hospital in Philadelphia (USA), the risk of premature aging, or even skin cancer, would be higher for adults sitting in this place.
Cancer, premature ageing: airplane windows let UVA rays through
“Airplane windows effectively block most UVB rays”said at the Huffington Post, the specialist. As a reminder, this is also the case for most windows in houses or cars, “which filter 97 or 98% of UVB radiation, namely the wavelength causing sunburn”, added Dr. Jennifer Holman, dermatologist at US Dermatology Partners Tyler, Texas.
However, Dr. Elisabeth Jones reported that airplane windows do not totally block UVA rays. “In general, most windows don’t filter them out. Some older windows block about 50% of UVA rays and some newer models are better at blocking UVA rays.” Thus, when people are seated window-side in the plane, they are more exposed to UVA rays, which can “cause premature aging, wrinkles and ultimately also contribute to skin cancer.”
A higher risk for crew members and pilots
“The good news is that the actual risk from flying, or from someone who flies occasionally, is likely to be low. ultraviolet rays, taking into account the size of the windshield, especially if they are in the cockpit, and the time they spend at a higher altitude”, explained the dermatologist.
According to an American studypublished in 2015, the incidence of melanoma is approximately twice as high among pilots and cabin crew members as among the general population. “Further research on mechanisms and optimal occupational protection is needed,” the researchers wrote.
Put on sunscreen before flying
Dermatologists have indicated that applying sunscreen can protect against these penetrating rays. “deeper in the skin” And “exposure to different types of skin cancer, including the deadliest form of skin cancer, melanoma.” Dr Elisabeth Jones said everyone should use sunscreen before flying, but most importantly “people with a personal or family history of skin cancer” and having fair skin.