What's Window Film? How Does it Protect Against UV Exposure?

By realkidsshades

When you are inside your home or car, does the thought of protecting yourself and your family from UV rays cross your mind? Chances are, it could be the furthest thing from your mind. Sure, windows do provide some protection, shielding against UVB rays, but UVA rays can easily penetrate glass with at least 50 percent of UVA rays passing through windows according to the Skin Cancer Foundation. This percentage is increased during the winter due to the angle daylight hits windows and is further intensified when light bounces off snow.

Inadequate sun protection for kids and adults is the cause of 85 percent of melanomas and 90 percent of non-melanoma skin cancers, the Skin Care Foundation reports. Furthermore, UV rays can also lead to health problems and visible signs of aging, so it’s important to guard your family’s skin anytime they could be exposed to sunlight. In addition to making a habit of putting on sunscreen daily and wearing sunglasses and other protective clothing, there’s another unique solution to consider. The nonprofit group the International Window Film Association (IWFA) recommends using window film as a way to help keep UVA and UVB rays from passing through windows. Window film offers the following benefits:

• It blocks up to 99 percent of UVA rays providing sun protection for kids and adults in the home and car.
• It helps create a more even temperature in the home by reducing hot spots.
• It is easy to install and has a long lifespan.

Other benefits of window film named by the Skin Cancer Foundation include:

• Protection for your upholstery and other belongings against sun damage.
• Reduce glare while between 30 and 80 percent of visible light is still able to enter the home or car (depending on the type of film you choose).
• Lower energy costs through heat reduction during hot weather while interior heat back is reflected indoors during cold weather.
• You have the option of using safety film, which holds glass together if the window is shattered. This reduces the chance of break-ins, theft, property damage, and injuries from broken glass.

Have you used window film in your home or car before? Share your experience in the comments section.

Protection from UV rays is just as important outdoors. Guard yourself and your children with sunglasses, sunscreen, hats, and protective clothing whenever you head outdoors. Check out our range sunglasses for children of all ages at Real Kids Shades.