Believe you don’t need sunscreen until you land at your holiday destination? Think again.
A dermatologist has revealed why you should slap on the skin protection the moment you step onto the plane.
Heather Kornmhel is a fellow of the American Academy of Dermatology and Mohs surgical fellow.
The 34-year-old also shares some of her advice on TikTok, where she has 81,100 followers (@dr .heatherderm).
In one of her most recent videos, she leaves viewers shocked after explaining why sunscreen is crucial when flying.
And why you should close the window blinds.
The video has over 29,000 view and hundreds of likes.
“Apply sunscreen to any sun-exposed areas or try to ensure the plane windows are closed for the duration of the flight,” Heather, who is based in Houston, Texas, US, told Need To Know.
“While UVB rays that cause sunburns do not penetrate through windows, UVA rays penetrate deep into the skin and contribute to both skin ageing and skin cancer.
There are also different timings to apply sunscreen, depending on when your skin will be exposed.
Heather said: “When applying mineral sunscreen you can do it right before sun exposure.
“When applying chemical sunscreen you want to apply it approximately 20 minutes before sun exposure.
“If you’re not getting sweaty or washing the exposed areas, I’m not a stickler on reapplication while in a plane.
“If you are sweating or washing it off your hands, you’d want to reapply every two hours or after washing it off.”
Aside from sunscreen, Heather also shared other ways to boost your skin health while flying or driving.
She said: “Flying can be dehydrating for skin due to lack of humidity on the plane.
“Moisturize skin and lips generously.
“UVA rays penetrate through most windows including home and car windows.
“In the US, people statistically get more skin cancers on the left side of their face due to the driver’s side window being on the left.
“You can get UV protective film installed on your car (and home) windows.
“Otherwise, you can drive with sun-protective UPF gloves.
“If you hold up your clothing to the light and can see light penetrating through it, that means UV rays may be penetrating through your clothing.
“If you’re going to be outdoors during daytime hours, try to wear tight night, opaque clothing.
“Also, the majority of UV rays are present on a cloudy day so don’t let a cloudy day fool you into thinking you don’t need sunscreen.”
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