We all know the importance of protecting our skin outdoors, especially under direct sunlight. However, many overlook that UV (ultraviolet) rays can still harm our skin and eyes indoors. Whether working near a window or lounging at home, UV rays can still reach you. UVA rays, responsible for premature ageing and deep skin damage, can penetrate through glass. Therefore, protecting your skin indoors is just as crucial as protecting it outdoors. Below, I will share practical and straightforward tips to help ensure your skin stays safe from UV exposure at home, in the office, or indoors.
- Sunscreen: Your First Line of Defense
Sunscreen indoors is a simple yet powerful way to protect your skin from harmful UV rays. It's not just for outdoor activities. It's a must if you're near windows, especially during peak UV hours. This straightforward step puts you in control of your skin's health, even when you're indoors.
Why should you wear sunscreen indoors?
Even indoors, sunlight can easily reach you through glass windows. Regular exposure to UV rays indoors can contribute to premature ageing and skin discolouration and even increase the risk of skin cancer over time. UVA rays, responsible for premature ageing and deep skin damage, are present throughout the day and can penetrate through most windows, so your skin is still susceptible to these harmful effects. On the other hand, UVB rays are responsible for sunburn and play a key role in developing skin cancer. Both rays can penetrate glass, so protecting your skin from both is essential.
Applying a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF (Sun Protection Factor) of at least 30, even on cloudy days, is essential to maximise your protection indoors. The SPF number indicates how long the sunscreen will protect your skin from UVB rays compared to not using sunscreen. For example, if your skin normally starts to burn after 10 minutes in the sun, an SPF 30 sunscreen will protect you for approximately 300 minutes (10 minutes x 30). Make sure to use it on all exposed skin areas, including the face, neck, and hands, as these areas are often overlooked but highly susceptible to UV damage. If you plan to spend several hours near a window, reapply sunscreen every 2 hours for maximum protection.
Choosing the right sunscreen for indoor use:
When choosing a sunscreen for everyday indoor use, consider a lightweight, non-comedogenic formula that won't clog your pores or leave a greasy residue. Look for sunscreens that offer broad-spectrum protection against both UVA and UVB rays.
Pro Tip: Don't forget to apply sunscreen to areas often exposed to sunlight but may not immediately seem at risk, such as the backs of your hands, arms, or feet if they're near a sunny window. Over time, these areas accumulate UV damage, so prevention is key.
2. UV-Blocking Curtains: An Easy Solution to Indoor UV Exposure
UV-blocking curtains are a game-changer when protecting your skin indoors, especially near windows. They provide a comfortable and convenient solution, allowing you to enjoy natural light without worrying about UV exposure.
Why UV-blocking curtains are a must-have:
UV-blocking curtains are designed to filter out harmful ultraviolet rays from the sun while still allowing natural light to pass through. They are usually made of unique fabrics or treated with UV-blocking technology, which helps reduce the amount of UV radiation entering a room. Investing in UV-blocking curtains creates a protective barrier between your skin and the sun's rays.
Exposure to UV rays can occur even when sitting by a partially shaded window or when the sun's rays pass through glass windows. It's essential to recognise that UV rays can penetrate even tinted or shaded glass, so having an additional layer of protection can make a significant difference.
Benefits of UV-blocking curtains:
Reduces Skin Damage: UV-blocking curtains help shield your skin from UVA and UVB rays, preventing long-term skin damage such as wrinkles, age spots, and skin cancer.
Protects Furniture and Décor: In addition to protecting your skin, UV-blocking curtains also help protect your furniture, carpets, and artwork from fading due to sun exposure.
Improves Comfort: UV-blocking curtains can help regulate the temperature inside your home by blocking out the sun's heat, keeping rooms cooler during hot summer months.
Choosing the right UV-blocking curtains:
When shopping for UV-blocking curtains, look for products that mention UV protection in their description. Some curtains can block up to 98% of UV rays, offering excellent protection. Additionally, consider the thickness and opacity of the curtains. Heavier curtains or those made from thicker materials tend to provide better protection.
For those who prefer a modern touch, UV-protective blinds or shades are a versatile and stylish alternative to traditional curtains. They offer excellent UV protection while allowing you to express your unique style and creativity in your home.
Pro Tip: To create a calming and cosy atmosphere in your home while protecting your skin, choose light-coloured curtains made from reflective fabrics. These will help diffuse sunlight and reduce heat buildup while blocking harmful UV rays.
3. UV Film: An Invisible Shield for Your Windows
Another excellent way to protect your skin from UV rays indoors is by applying UV film to your windows. This method works by adhering a thin, transparent film to your windows, blocking harmful UV radiation and allowing visible light to pass through.
Why consider UV window film?
UV window film is a fantastic option to protect your skin without compromising the natural light that enters your home. The film acts as an invisible shield, reducing up to 99% of harmful UV rays that would otherwise penetrate through the glass.
It offers skin protection and helps keep your living space more fabulous in the summer by reducing solar heat gain, making your home more energy-efficient. Additionally, UV window film protects your furniture, artwork, and flooring from fading due to UV exposure.
Benefits of UV window film:
Discreet Protection: Since the film is nearly invisible, it doesn't alter the aesthetic of your home, allowing you to enjoy natural light without any noticeable difference.
Increased Energy Efficiency: The film helps reduce the heat entering your windows, lowering cooling costs during hot months.
Enhanced Comfort: UV window film improves overall comfort in spaces that receive a lot of sunlight by minimising glare and protecting skin.
Pro Tip: If you're a renter or don't want to change your windows permanently, you can look for removable UV films. These films are easy to apply and remove without leaving any residue, making them ideal for temporary or rental living situations.
4. Clear UV Sunglasses: Protecting Your Eyes from Harmful Rays
While we often focus on protecting our skin, we must not forget about our eyes. UV rays can be as damaging to the eyes as the skin, leading to conditions like cataracts, macular degeneration, and even skin cancer around the eyelids.
Why invest in UV sunglasses for indoor use?
It's easy to overlook eye protection indoors, especially if you're not spending time directly in the sun. However, if you're sitting near a window or driving, UV rays can still reach your eyes, causing long-term damage. Investing in a good pair of UV-blocking sunglasses is an easy way to protect your eyes from these harmful rays.
Benefits of UV sunglasses:
Protects Eye Health: UV sunglasses help prevent severe eye conditions caused by prolonged UV exposure.
Reduces Glare: Sunglasses help reduce glare, making focusing on screens or outdoor views more manageable and comfortable.
Prevents Wrinkles and Skin Cancer: Sunglasses protect sensitive skin around your eyes from sun damage.
Choosing the right UV sunglasses:
When selecting sunglasses, make sure they provide 100% UV protection. Look for sunglasses that block both UVA and UVB rays. Polarised lenses can help reduce glare, especially if you spend much time near windows or driving. Opt for lightweight, comfortable frames that you can wear for extended periods.
5. Sun-Protective Clothing: A Stylish Way to Stay Safe
If none of the previous options appeal to you, or you want an extra layer of protection, consider investing in sun-protective clothing. These garments are made from specially designed fabrics that offer an added layer of UV defence.
Why choose sun-protective clothing?
Sun-protective clothing is designed to block harmful UV rays while keeping you comfortable and stylish. The fabric used in these clothes has a higher UPF (Ultraviolet Protection Factor) rating than regular clothing, ensuring better protection.
Sun-protective clothing can be worn indoors to protect your skin from UV exposure while doing your daily activities. Whether working at home, lounging, or simply relaxing by the window, these clothes are an excellent way to protect yourself without relying solely on sunscreen.
Benefits of sun-protective clothing:
Convenience: With sun-protective clothing, you don't need to constantly reapply sunscreen, and you're always covered.
Comfort: These clothes are often lightweight, breathable, and moisture-wicking, making them comfortable for everyday wear.
Fashionable Options: From casual to office attire, stylish sun-protective clothing options suit your lifestyle.
Pro Tip: Look for clothing items with a UPF rating of 50 or higher for maximum UV protection. Sun-protective shirts, pants, hats, and even swimwear can cover different areas of your body.
Please check out more information on indoor sun protection on the cancer council website:https://www.cancer.org.au/iheard/should-i-wear-sunscreen-when-indoors
These tips help and will enhance your sun care routine. If you enjoyed the article, please share it and subscribe to the newsletter for helpful tips!
