Skin Damage While Driving
July 13, 2011
In recent years, dermatologists have observed that Americans have more sun damage on the left side of their bodies. The cause? The hours we spend in our cars.
Contrary to popular belief, ultraviolet A (UVA) light radiation does penetrate car windows. It is true that glass blocks UVB light, and the windshield blocks all UV-but a car’s side and rear windows let UVA light in.
As a result of cumulative UVA exposure, a US study by Singer, et al revealed that Americans have more brown pigmentation and deeper wrinkles on their left sides. In other countries where the driver sits on the right side, the same effect has been seen on the right side of people’s bodies.
The left side of the head, neck, arm, and hand are exposed to up to six times the amount of UV radiation as the right side.
Observational studies have found that precancerous growths (which could potentially lead to melanomas) are more likely to occur on the UVA-exposed left side of the body.
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To learn more about the innovative treatments offered at Pacific Center for Plastic Surgery in Newport Beach, CA, contact our office by calling (949) 617-1168 or by filling out the consultation request form below.
Proposed solutions to this problem range from wearing sunscreen while driving to tinting the windows of cars to block UVA light. BioSpa at Pacific Center for Plastic Surgery and Drs. Larry Nichter and Jed Horowitzoffer all of this and other technologies for sun damaged skin and can select the best treatments, sunscreen and skin maintenance products best for your skin type.
Abstracted from “Sun Hazards in Your Car” by Susan T. Butler, MD, The Skin Cancer Foundation Journal, VOl 29, 2011
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As soon as you step into our Newport Beach office, our welcoming staff will carefully listen to your concerns and guide you through your treatment journey. The board-certified plastic surgeons at Pacific Center for Plastic Surgery will be happy to discuss your cosmetic goals, review the pros and cons of the treatment you are considering, and create a personalized treatment plan that will deliver the best outcome for you.
To learn more about the innovative treatments offered at Pacific Center for Plastic Surgery in Newport Beach, CA, contact our office by calling (949) 617-1168 or by filling out the consultation request form below.
