UV-STOP
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You are sitting indoors by the window and feel the sun on your skin. But what about UV radiation? Do UV rays pass through glass, or are you completely protected behind a window? In this blog, we explain what happens to UV light when it passes through glass and why sun protection can also be relevant indoors.
Sunlight consists of different types of UV radiation, including UVA and UVB. Ordinary glass blocks a large proportion of UVB radiation, but UVA rays can pass through glass.
This means that you are unlikely to burn behind a window, but your skin is still exposed to UVA radiation. This radiation penetrates deeper into the skin and plays a role in sun-induced skin aging.
The effect of UV radiation through a window is particularly significant when you are sitting close to glass for a long time. Think of working near a window, driving a car, or relaxing in a conservatory. Even then, glass can allow some UV radiation to pass through.
Because UVA radiation is present all year round, even on cloudy days, exposure can occur unnoticed. You may not feel it immediately, but your skin is still affected.
Double glazing blocks most UVB radiation, but allows some UVA radiation to pass through. The exact amount of UV radiation that is allowed through depends on the type of glass and any special coatings. So double glazing does not block all UV rays. Some UV light can still reach your skin.
Because UV radiation is present all year round, protection is not just for the beach or the garden. Sunscreen can help, but is often not used or reapplied indoors.
This is where clothing can play an additional role. With UV-STOP Protection Wash, you can give ordinary clothing a UV-resistant effect of up to UPF 50+. This way, your clothing forms an additional protective layer against UV radiation, even when you are sitting close to a window or on the go.
UV radiation passes through glass, so you need to be aware of this and protect yourself. By cleverly combining sun protection with UV-resistant clothing, you can make it easier to protect your skin every day, indoors and outdoors.
Want to know how to easily make your clothing UV-resistant? Read more about UV-STOP Protection Wash and discover how you can add extra protection to your clothing in a single wash.
Get in touch with us and discover the many possibilities, or let us answer the questions you have
UV-STOP
Do UV rays pass through glass?
Yes, UV radiation can penetrate glass. Ordinary glass blocks some of the UVB radiation, but UVA radiation can pass through to a certain extent.
Does double glazing completely block UV radiation?
Double glazing largely blocks UVB, but allows some UVA to pass through. The type of glass, its thickness, and any coatings determine how much radiation is blocked.
Does UV radiation penetrate windows in homes or offices?
Yes, UV radiation penetrates ordinary windows. This means that you can also be exposed to UVA and UVB radiation indoors, for example near a south-facing window or a glass facade.
Can I protect myself against UV rays indoors?
Yes, you can protect your skin by wearing clothing that blocks UV radiation, such as clothing treated with UV-STOP Protection Wash. You can also protect yourself by using sun blinds and UV filters on windows.
Is UV light through glass dangerous for my skin?
Prolonged exposure to UVA radiation can contribute to premature skin aging and pigmentation spots. That is why it is wise to protect yourself from UV radiation indoors as well.
Does the effect of sunlight differ between single and double glazing?
Yes, double glazing generally blocks more UVB radiation than single glazing, but often allows some UVA radiation to pass through. The level of protection depends on the type of glass and any coatings.