The increased altitude means less atmospheric protection from the sun's harmful rays, which is why airplane pilots are exposed to a lot of UV radiation that increases their risk of sun damage and skin cancer, according to the Journal of Photodermatology.
Using sunscreen is considered an important recommendation by dermatologists and scientists, as it blocks harmful UV rays from reaching your skin. But should you use sunscreen on a plane? In this guide, we will discuss the importance of sunscreen during flights and experts’ views on it. Keep reading to learn more.
The importance of sunscreen
Even on cloudy days, up to 80% of the sun's harmful UV rays can still get through the clouds. Sunscreen secures your skin from the sun’s UV rays. UV rays can penetrate into your skin and harm the DNA in your skin cells, which might cause skin damage, early aging, or even skin cancer.
Many scientific studies and organizations encourage the use of sunscreens as they are important to keep your skin healthy and safe from harmful environmental factors.
The Skin Cancer Foundation recommends that everyone, including children over 6 months old, use sunscreen every day, no matter if they tan easily or not.
Understanding UV radiation
UV or ultraviolet radiation has shorter wavelengths than visible light, and shorter wavelengths can cause more damage to biological tissues. Chemical filters in sunscreen, such as oxybenzone and avobenzone, absorb UV light and convert it into heat, which is then dissipated harmlessly. This process helps protect the skin from harmful effects like sunburn and skin cancer.
Sunlight produces three types of UV rays:
- UVA (near UV): 315–380 nm
- UVB (middle UV): 280–315 nm
- UVC (far UV): 180–280 nm
UVA rays have the longest wavelengths, followed by UVB, and UVC rays have the shortest. The Earth's ozone layer absorbs all UVC and some UVB rays, so most UV rays we encounter are UVA, with a small amount of UVB. UVA rays can reach and affect deeper into the skin, while UVB rays affect the outer layer.
Benefits of wearing sunscreen
In Canada, over 80,000 skin cancer cases are diagnosed each year, and 80–90% of these are linked to UV radiation. Using sunscreen is considered an important way to prevent skin cancer, sunburn, and skin aging since it blocks the harmful UV radiation from the sun. Sunscreen use has been shown to reduce the risk of both melanoma and nonmelanoma skin cancers, as per the studies.
According to the American Academy of Dermatology, a broad-spectrum sunscreen having SPF 30 or higher and water resistance can reduce the risk of skin cancer, prevent sunburn, and decrease early aging signs, like wrinkles and age spots.
Many scientific studies support the benefits of wearing sunscreen when outside. No sunscreen ingredients currently available in the U.S. have been proven to be harmful to human health. However, further research is needed to fully understand the absorption and safety of these ingredients.
UV exposure on airplanes
Award-winning dermatologist Dr. Jonathan Kentley, a consultant dermatologist at Derma Consult, spoke to Healthnews about the effects of UV radiation on airplanes.
“Cabin windows are usually made from plastic, which filters around 50% of UVA radiation, though due to the increased levels at altitude, this still equates to a higher UVA dose than sitting by a window at ground level. UVA rays penetrate deep into skin, causing breakdown of collagen and elastin as well as pigmentation,” says Dr. Kentley.
He further adds, “Levels of UV radiation are higher at altitude due to a thinner atmosphere, and although plane windows filter almost all UVB radiation, pilots and cabin crew have been reported to have around double the risk of melanoma from the background population. The reasons for this are not totally clear, and it may be related to increased UVA exposure or the travel habits of plane crew.”
Studies and research on in-flight UV exposure
According to a study, life at high altitudes is exposed to more solar radiation and UVB because there’s less atmosphere above them to block it. So, UVB reaches them more easily and doesn’t get absorbed by ozone like it does at lower altitudes. Because of this, flight crews get the most UV radiation exposure since the air is thinner and lets more UV through.
A systematic review also suggests airplane pilots or cabin crew have about twice the risk of skin cancers and melanoma compared to the general population. However, the studies in this review date back to several decades ago. More research is needed to examine the exact cause of these effects.
Why should you wear sunscreen on a plane?
Dr. Kentley advises people to wear broad-spectrum sunscreen when taking a window seat on flights.
“As plane windows filter out almost all cancer-causing UVB radiation, there is no risk of sunburn. However, windows still allow UVA radiation to pass through, which, long-term, can cause increased signs of visible skin aging and pigmentation. If taking a long-haul flight or traveling regularly, I would advise considering wearing a broad-spectrum SPF when sitting by a window. However, if seated in the middle of the cabin, this may not be necessary,” says Dr. Kently.
The Cancer Research U.K. recommends applying sunscreen even on sunny or cloudy days, whether you are at home or on vacation. They suggest that the sun can be strong enough to cause damage even on cold or cloudy days. Therefore, when outside, use sunscreen having SPF 30 or higher, apply it generously, reapply it often, and also use shade and protective clothing for extra protection.
Choosing the right sunscreen for flights
“The best sunscreen is the one that you are going to use regularly and will be dependent on your skin type," states Dr. Kentley, adding, “[r]emember that your skin needs may change whilst on holiday due to the heat, and you may prefer a lighter formulation such as a lotion or gel, particularly on the face. I would always advise choosing an SPF of 30+ with a broad spectrum to cover UVA and UVB. For the face, I would suggest using a higher SPF of 50+.”
Also, make sure that your sunscreen complies with TSA (Transport Security Administration) sunscreen regulations for safe travel.
TSA recommends that passengers carrying larger amounts of sunscreen or other liquids, gels, and aerosols should pack them in their checked baggage to use once they reach their destination.
- Carry-on bags. You can bring up to 3.4 ounces (100 ml) in your carry-on.
- Checked bags. You can pack sunscreen in your checked luggage.
The FAA has limits on how much you can bring in checked bags. You can have up to 2 kg (70 ounces) or 2 liters (68 fluid ounces) of restricted items in total, with each container being no larger than 0.5 kg (18 ounces) or 500 ml (17 fluid ounces). Aerosol containers should have caps to prevent the leakage.
Additional tips for skin protection during flights
Dr. Kentley also provides valuable advice on protecting your skin during flights. He further adds, “[w]hen flying, it is important to remember that the air in the cabin has very low humidity, which can cause the skin to lose moisture, leaving it feeling dry and tight. I would suggest staying hydrated by drinking water throughout the flight, avoiding excess alcohol, and moisturizing regularly.
Additionally, it is also important to protect yourself from the sun not only with sunscreen but also a wide-brimmed hat and avoiding the sun at peak hours between 11[a.m.]–2[p.m.] (an opportunity for a siesta). Make sure that you reapply the sunscreen if you sweat a lot.”
Final word
Airplane window UV rays are a concern, making it necessary to use sunscreen during flights, as UV rays at 30,000 feet can harm your skin when exposed regularly. For travel skincare, use sunscreen SPF 30 or higher, as dermatologists recommend flying with a high SPF rating for better protection. You may need to reapply sunscreen on long flights to protect against UV radiation on planes. For more protection, try to stay in the shade and wear protective clothing like a hat with a brim and sunglasses.
FAQ
Should I wear sunscreen on airplane?
The answer is yes. Wearing sunscreen secures your skin from the unwanted effects of UV radiation, which can lead to skin damage. Wearing sunscreen with an SPF of 30+ or higher is a wise choice, as sunscreens with broad-spectrum can protect your skin in the best way possible.
Do airplane windows block UV rays?
Airplane windows reduce UV rays but don't completely block them, so you can still be exposed to UV light. Therefore, wearing sunscreen on airplanes is highly encouraged.
How often should I reapply sunscreen during a flight?
You should reapply sunscreen every 2 hours, especially on long flights. But if you sweat a lot, you'll need to apply more sunscreen to keep your skin healthy and protected.
Can I use regular sunscreen on a plane?
Yes, you can use regular sunscreen on a plane. Just make sure it's in the right amount for carry-on bags or packed in checked luggage.
Are there any other ways to protect my skin on a plane?
Besides sunscreen, you can wear protective clothing and stay in the shade by sitting away from windows to further protect your skin.
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Airplane pilots and crew are twice as likely to get skin cancer and melanoma because of more UV light. Wearing sunscreen on planes is important.
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Wearing sunscreen is important even on cloudy or cold days, as UV radiation can still reach the ground and can have harmful effects on your skin.
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Choose an SPF 30+ or higher than that for better protection.
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When traveling, make sure your sunscreen meets TSA rules for travel. For larger amounts, pack it in your checked baggage to use at your destination.
14 resources
- Journal of Photodermatology. Predictive factors of sun protection behaviour among global airline pilots.
- Americal Academy of Dermatology Association. Sunscreen FAQs.
- Journal of Biomedicines. UV radiation in DNA damage and repair involving DNA.
- Skin Cancer Foundation. Sunscreen.
- Canadian Medical Association Journal. The efficacy and safety of sunscreen use for the prevention of skin cancer.
- FDA. Ultraviolet (UV) radiation.
- Journal of Cutaneous Medicine and Surgery. Sunscreen application, safety, and sun protection.
- American Academy of Dermatology Association. Is sunscreen safe?
- FDA. Shedding more light on sunscreen absorption.
- Archives in Biomedical Engineering and Biotechnology. Impact of high-altitude ultraviolet radiation on functionability of flight crews.
- The British Journal of Dermatology. Do airline pilots and cabin crew have raised risks of melanoma and other skin cancers?
- Cancer Research UK. Sun safety.
- Transport Security Administration. Sunscreen.
- Federal Aviation Administration. PackSafe - medicinal & toiletry articles.
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