Is sunscreen necessary when driving?

Can UV rays come through car windows?

Yes, UVA can pass through car windows. Glass blocks most UVB, the rays mainly responsible for sunburn, but its protection against UVA is less consistent. UVA contributes to tanning, premature skin aging and skin cancer. Not getting sunburned inside the car does not mean your skin has avoided damaging exposure. Repeated exposure through windows adds to sun damage over time, so the everyday commute matters alongside the occasional road trip.12

Do car windows block UVA rays?

The windshield usually blocks much more UVA than the side windows. Windshields typically use laminated glass, while untreated side windows and sunroofs typically use tempered glass. Up to 50 percent of UVA can pass through untreated tempered glass. Protection varies between vehicles and between windows in the same vehicle.1

Measurements across 34 gas, hybrid and electric vehicles from model years 2015 to 2025 found average UVA blocking of 99.25 percent at the front windshield and 88.78 percent at the driver's side window. Those averages are not a rating for your car. Electric vehicles did not offer greater UVA blocking at the side windows, so the power source is not a shortcut for choosing sun protection.3

How should I apply sunscreen before driving?

Choose a sunscreen labelled broad spectrum, SPF 30 or higher, and water resistant. Water resistance lasts either 40 or 80 minutes on wet or sweaty skin; it does not mean the sunscreen stays on indefinitely.45

1. 1Apply your other skin care products first.
2. 2Put sunscreen on your face and any skin clothing will not cover, including exposed neck, arms and hands.
3. 3Apply sunscreen 15 minutes before heading outside to the car.
4. 4Put makeup on after sunscreen.

Should I wear sunscreen on long drives?

Yes. For longer daylight exposure, use broad spectrum SPF 50 or higher and add long sleeves and sunglasses. Cover exposed skin rather than relying on the windshield alone. Passengers also need protection because UVA blocking is not consistent across other vehicle windows. Keep these habits through winter as well as summer: UVA reaches you throughout the year and can pass through clouds.123

Does window tint replace sunscreen?

Use UV window film as an extra layer of protection, not your entire plan. Suitable film can block more than 99 percent of UVA and UVB. Look for a product specifically marketed for UV protection, because some films are mainly for decoration or darkening. UV filtering film can be clear, so protection does not require giving the car a secret agent costume. Check local tinting rules before installation. The Skin Cancer Foundation Seal of Recommendation requires film to block at least 99 percent of solar UVA and UVB.12

Who needs extra care?

Photosensitivity means symptoms or conditions caused or worsened by sunlight. UVA is its most common trigger, and some medicines, including tetracyclines and thiazides, can cause it. If you have a sunlight related skin condition, sunscreen alone often cannot prevent a flare; the protection needed depends on the condition's severity. A recurring rash after sunlight exposure needs medical assessment rather than a self diagnosis. If the sunscreen itself irritates your skin, stop using that product.56