"UVA rays still pass through side glass, they cause cumulative damage and a higher rate of skin cancer on the exposed driver's side."
Most of us wear sunscreen when we're out and about. But what about when we’re just driving?
A study in the Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology found that only 27% of people wear sunscreen while in a car — even though more than half wear it regularly on other days. Why? Because many believe car windows block UV rays. Unfortunately, that’s not entirely true.
- UV Rays....
- UVA rays, which cause aging and DNA damage, can penetrate glass.
- While your windshield blocks most UVB (burning) rays, side windows don’t stop UVA effectively.
- This means your driver-side face, arm, and hand are consistently exposed to UV damage.
The study even found a higher rate of skin cancers on the left side (driver’s side) of the body.
- Common Misconceptions
“I don’t need sunscreen when I’m in the car.”
→ False. UVA still gets through the glass.
“The windows are closed, so I’m protected.”
→ Glass stops wind — not UV rays.
“I’m only driving for a few minutes.”
→ Sun damage is cumulative. Even 10–15 minutes a day adds up.
- What You Can Do
- Apply broad-spectrum SPF 30+ every morning — even on commute days.
- Focus on driver-side areas (face, neck, hands, arms).
- Reapply if you’re in the car for extended periods.
- UVELLA’s Take
At UVELLA, we believe sun protection should be daily, effortless, and complete. That’s why our sunscreens are crafted to feel like skincare — lightweight, invisible, and easy to apply, even on busy mornings when you’re just headed out for errands or a short drive.
Scientific Reference
- Kim D.P., Levy R.M., & Draelos Z.D. (2013). Sunscreen use while driving. Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology, 68(6), 952–956.
Reviewed by:
Jungyoon Ohn, MD, PhD
Board-Certified Dermatologist