Wednesday, January 16, 2013

High Altitude = Increased Exposure to Harmful UV Rays

     In high altitudes and in winter, the sun's UV rays are increased. Exposure is increased because of the decreased atmosphere and because the UV rays reflect and/or bounce off the snow. When elevation increases so does the sun's strength. The thinner atmosphere absorbs less UV rays, allowing them to pass through to the Earth much easier and with much more power, this greatly increases the risk of exposure. When living or vacationing in high altitudes, it is extremely important that you take extra precautions to protect yourself from the sun's harmful UV rays. UVA rays, account for up to 95 percent of UV rays that reach the Earth’s surface, they penetrate deeper into skin, cause wrinkles, and are the culprit for melanoma, the most deadly skin cancer. In the winter, many places have an abundance of snow, when the sun's UVA rays bounce off the snow it creates an effect similar to being at the beach. These rays can be very intense and act the same throughout the year penetrating clouds and even glass. Even just a few minutes of sun exposure during the day, overtime, these minutes add up and can cause noticeable changes to the skin, such as freckles, age spots, spider veins on the face, blotchy complexion, and fine wrinkles. According to Sonya Dakar Skin Clinic, "UVA rays are not affected by changes in temperature and will penetrate deep into skin layers, potentially causing long-term damage to the skin". From repeated exposure to the sun's harmful rays, this photo aging process is inevitable and the only way to prevent it is by shielding yourself from the sun. Use a stronger sunblock during the winter months and in higher altitude. Avoid direct sunlight,  seek shade when the sun is hottest and wear protective clothing, hats and sunglasses.
    Most importantly, protect yourself in all that you do. The most neglected areas of concern is when you are driving in your vehicle or sitting in your home or office. Many people feel that their glass alone is is enough protection from the sun's harmful rays. Boy are they wrong. Glass can actually magnify the effects of the sun most notably called the greenhouse effect. It can make a home, office or vehicle's interior far hotter. The UV rays are still permeating inside and are coming in contact with you and the things you love most. Protect yourself from the damaging rays of the sun with window film applications on your home, office or vehicle. Window film can block up to 99% of UV rays! With this added precaution you can receive the protection that you deserve all year round. Take preventative action now, you can never be too safe, make the necessary changes to protect against UV rays passing through your glass. At All American Window Tinting, Inc., we provide professional window film installations for your home, office or vehicle. Take advantage of the benefits that window film has to offer and call our office today at 303-936-1362 and start protecting the things you love most!


FACTS FOR THOUGHT - According to Sonya Dakar Skin Clinic 
Higher altitudes mean dramatically more UV radiation - For every 1,000 feet you climb in altitude, UV radiation increase 4%. This fact is especially important to all you skiers and snow boarders wearing just a knit stocking cap. Both brimmed winter sun hat and broad spectrum face sunscreen is crucial to your sun safety.

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