Should I use sunscreen on airplanes?

With all the things you need to think about before a flight, sunscreen isn’t usually at the top of the list. But those cabin windows offer less protection than you might think, especially if you’re a fan of the window seat.

“Airplane windows do not completely block UVA rays, which pass through glass and accelerate aging,” he says. Marnie Nussbaumcertified dermatologist. “Additionally, at 30,000 feet, UV exposure increases due to a thinner atmosphere, so SPF is absolutely essential during flight.”

The only real exception, he adds, is long-haul flights, where the blinds remain closed all the time.

Here’s what you need to know about sunscreen on flights, one of the best ways to protect yourself against ultraviolet radiation.

High altitude matters

At cruising altitude, exposure to ultraviolet radiation It is more than double what it is at sea level. Airplane windows block most UVB rays, which cause sunburn and contribute to skin cancer. UVA rays, which have a longer wavelength, are more associated with skin aging and inflammation.

“While airplane windows can block some UVB rays, they don’t eliminate exposure completely,” says Nussbaum. “UVA rays, on the other hand, can be transmitted through these windows, causing DNA damage that leads to collagen degradation, premature wrinkles, and an increased risk of skin cancer.”

Seating assignment also matters, and Nussbaum says the window seat exposes you to more UV rays than the aisle since it’s closer to the exposure. Even on cloudy days or on flights when you don’t feel the heat of the sun, keep in mind that the rays still reach your skin.

The more you fly, the greater the risk of skin damage from UV exposure. In fact, Nussbaum says that pilots and cabin crew experience approximately twice the incidence of melanoma as the general population. “At higher altitudes, the thinner atmosphere and proximity to the ozone layer mean greater UV exposure,” he says.

Choose the right sunscreen.

For frequent travelers, Nussbaum recommends making sun protection a daily habit. “Daily application of an antioxidant-rich serum and mineral-based SPF is essential for protection and prevention,” she says.

Cabin air is noticeably dry, with humidity levels often dropping below 20 percent. To combat that, look for a sunscreen that can protect you from UV rays and the dehydrating effects of flying. Look for formulas that have hydrating ingredients like hyaluronic acid, glycerin, or ceramides. Cream sunscreens also tend to be more hydrating than gel formulas.

Going beyond sunscreen

Sun protection is just one part of Nussbaum’s onboard skincare strategy. “Drink plenty of water and apply a moisturizing serum and barrier cream before boarding,” says Nussbaum. “In mid-flight, I like to spritz on calming moisturizers like hypochlorous acid and aloe vera, and never, ever skip the lip serum.”

So, the next time you’re about to board a flight, consider booking an aisle seat, or you could take a few minutes to apply sunscreen before getting on the plane.