Travelers who prefer the window seat on airplanes might want to reconsider without applying sunscreen first. Recent discussions have highlighted the hidden risk of increased sun exposure while flying at high altitudes, especially near the window.
A TikTok user, FindingFiona, sparked the conversation by pointing out that despite being inside the aircraft, passengers sitting next to windows face stronger ultraviolet (UV) radiation. She backed up her claim with studies showing that sun damage can increase with altitude.
Dr. Elizabeth Jones, assistant professor of dermatology at Thomas Jefferson University Hospital, weighed in on the topic. She said the overall risk of UV exposure for casual flyers is likely low. However, people who fly frequently for work, such as pilots or flight attendants, face greater exposure. Pilots, in particular, get more UV light through the large cockpit windshields.
Dr. Jones explained that airplane windows block most UVB rays. These rays are mainly responsible for sunburn and can damage skin cells, increasing skin cancer risk. But the windows do not fully block UVA rays, which penetrate deeper into the skin. UVA rays contribute to premature aging, wrinkles, and can also increase cancer risk.
Older airplane windows may block only about half of UVA rays, while newer models do better at filtering them, Dr. Jones said. According to the Cleveland Clinic, UVA rays cause long-term skin damage and are linked to some skin cancers.
Dermatologists recommend applying sunscreen during flights, especially for window-seat passengers. A dermatologist from U.S. Dermatology Partners in Texas warned that UV rays at high altitudes are much stronger. Dr. Danny Guo noted that UV radiation increases by 2% for every 1,000 feet above ground. Given that planes fly between 30,000 and 40,000 feet, UV exposure can be 60-80% higher than on the ground.
Dr. Mamina Turegano added that repeated exposure speeds up skin aging and increases risks like hyperpigmentation and wrinkles. She also cited a 2019 meta-analysis showing that pilots and cabin crew have about twice the risk of melanoma and other skin cancers compared to the general public.
It is important to note that much of the research is decades old, so current risk levels may differ.
In summary, if you sit next to a window during a daytime flight, wearing sunscreen is a smart precaution. For those in aisle or middle seats, the risk is lower but applying sunscreen can still offer some protection.
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