We often focus on outdoor activities when protecting our skin from the sun. However, you might wonder if getting sunburned indoors or through a window is possible.
At Sun Masters DFW, we are the Dallas window tinting experts who understand the true UV damage that can seep through your window. Since we’re in such a hot summer this season, let’s explore whether windows protect you from the sun’s harmful rays outside and how window tinting can serve as an extra protection barrier.
Understanding UV Rays
To answer the question, “Can I get sunburned through a window?” we first need to understand the different types of ultraviolet (UV) rays and how they impact our skin.
UVA Rays
Although they may have the least energy among UV rays, they have longer wavelengths. This means UVA rays can penetrate the skin, causing aging and long-term damage like skin cancer.
UVB Rays
UVB rays have shorter wavelengths and are responsible for causing sunburn. They primarily affect the skin’s surface. Overexposure to UVB rays can lead to premature aging, eye damage, immune system suppression, and skin cancer.
Do Windows Block UV Rays?
Now that we’ve probably scared you back indoors for now, let’s consider just how much standard windows block these dangerous UV rays. Yes, windows can provide some protection and block UV rays, but not all.
Most standard residential or commercial windows can block a significant portion of UVB rays, so the chances of sunburning through a window are low.
Overall, glass blocks around 97% of UVB rays, exposing you to the remaining 3% if you sit in front of a sunny window for a prolonged period.
Although regular glass blocks UVB rays, unprotected windows do not block many UVA rays. This means your skin can still experience damage from excessive exposure to sunlight through windows.
How Can Window Tinting Keep the UV Rays at Bay?
UV Rejection
High-quality window films can block up to 99% of both UVA and UVB rays. So, getting a professional tinting job from Sun Masters can significantly reduce your risk of skin damage and prevent sunburn through windows.
Heat Reduction
Aside from avoiding sunburn, you also want to ensure the comfort of your interiors against the sun. Tinting reduces the amount of heat that passes through your windows, keeping your home or business cooler and reducing reliance on air conditioning.
Preserving Interiors
Tinted windows protect your furniture, flooring, and car interiors from fading and deterioration caused by UV exposure. So, while minimizing sunburn risk, your valuables can preserve their good looks!
Should You Wear Sunscreen Indoors?
Given the potential for UVA exposure through windows, we honestly wouldn’t say no to someone wearing sunscreen indoors, especially if spending a lot of time near windows.
Dermatologists recommend using sunscreen with a minimum SPF of 30 and reapplying it regularly to ensure continuous protection.
Is it Time for a Visit From Sun Masters DFW?
If you notice your skin feeling and looking a bit irritated after working near that sunny window, find that your electric bill is on the rise, or realize your wood floor has suffered significant sun damage, it’s time to call in the experts at Sun Masters DFW.
While you are unlikely to get sunburned through a window, prolonged exposure to UVA rays can still harm your skin.
Window tinting is an excellent preventive measure to protect against UV rays. At Sun Masters DFW in Dallas, we offer top-quality window tinting solutions to help you safeguard your skin and property. Contact us today to learn more about our services and how we can help protect you from the sun’s harmful rays.