Unfortunately, skin cancer is a very prevalent health disorder in the U.S. While people are taking more precautions to prevent the occurrence of this disease, many people are still unaware how ultraviolet (UV) radiation can affect them while driving. This guide will explain how it affects drivers and how window tinting can be used to keep you safe. 

How Are Car Windows Treated?

Most people believe they are adequately protected from harmful UV light while behind the wheel. To some degree, this is true, but unless you've added window tinting to your passenger windows, you are still primarily exposed.

In today's vehicles, the windshield is often made from laminated glass—a type of safety element that consists of two panes of annealed material held together by a middle layer of polyvinyl butyral (PVB). It's this inner layer of plastic that's responsible for filtering out the majority of UVB and UVA light before it enters the cabin.

The same can not be said for your passenger windows, which are made out of tempered glass. Although this safety glass is much stronger and is designed to shatter into dull pieces, it doesn't do as good of a job at blocking out UV light. It can block 60 percent to 70 percent of UVB rays but allows the majority of UVA rays to pass through.

How Will Window Tinting Reduce Cancer Risk?

Adding clear or tinted window film to your passenger-side windows will block 99 percent of UV light from entering your car and damaging your skin. This is very beneficial to everyone who spends time in a vehicle, but especially those who are professional drivers or who must spend multiple hours each day in their car. According to a study published in the Journal of American Academy of Dermatology, the time spent driving increases the risk of developing skin cancer on the left side of the body. So, taking all precautionary measures is advised to minimize the chances of a melanoma diagnosis.

In addition to wearing protective sunscreen, keep your skin safe by having the team at DentKO PDR Tint & Detail, based in Hazelwood, MO, add window tinting to your car. They have over 20 years of experience helping drivers in the Greater St. Louis area maintains the style of their vehicle. They will help you choose the right shade tint for your car that aligns with your goals and state regulations and also provide pick-up and drop-off service for elderly customers. Call them today at (314) 895-8468 to schedule an appointment, and visit their website to learn more about their auto detailing and hail damage repair services.