May Is National Skin Cancer Awareness Month

Many people are unaware that the sun’s harmful rays can penetrate glass – both in cars and buildings.

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Scientific research shows that drivers are especially vulnerable on the left side of their bodies, where they are exposed to harmful ultraviolet A (UVA) rays from side windows in cars, which are typically unprotected. The average American spends more than 101 minutes a day in a car, and most of that time, they are inadvertently exposing themselves to damaging rays.

“Damage from certain kinds of ultraviolet rays is cumulative,” says Dr. Dee Anna Glaser, vice-chair of the dermatology department at St. Louis University.  “These rays, called UVA rays, penetrate deep into the skin and can silently accelerate the aging process, cause wrinkles and even skin cancer.”  Unlike UVB rays, which create immediate effects like blistering and burns, UVA rays create long-term damage that is not immediately noticeable. “That’s why many people don’t realize their skin is getting damaged from sitting near windows in cars or even at their desks at work,” says Dr.  Glaser.

The Skin Cancer Foundation recommends adopting a complete sun protection regimen which includes seeking shade and covering up with clothing, including a wide-brimmed hat and UV-blocking sunglasses, in addition to daily sunscreen use. The Foundation also emphasizes the importance of sun protection while driving. Using high performance window film (sometimes referred to as tint) in a car offers all-day protection.

While all films in the LLumar portfolio offer UV protection, clear film appeals to those who do not want the darker window appearance or where the use of dark films is prohibited by state laws. When applied over automotive glass, this film’s virtually invisible protection blocks more than 99 percent of harmful UV rays*. LLumar window film acts as “sunscreen” – but with window film, there’s no need to reapply.

As the world’s largest manufacturer of window film, Eastman executives have a diversified global perspective on the use of the product.  “In many Asian countries, window film is in 8 out of 10 cars and is something of a status symbol,” says Mark Gershenson, Director Global LLumar Brand Management at Eastman.  “We see a clear need for education in North America.  Skin cancer can be prevented and window film is one of the easiest ways to mitigate the risks.”