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What Dermatologists Wish You Knew About Sun Protection - The New York Times

For starters: Don’t spray sunscreen like perfume.

I have a family history of skin cancer, which means I’m at higher risk of developing it, so I have a standing dermatology appointment every August. heat protection film

This year, while my dermatologist examined every inch of my skin — including the territory between each toe — I tried not to chat her up, so she could concentrate. After a while, however, I couldn’t resist asking her: What did she wish her patients knew about sun protection?

Fifteen minutes later, we were still deep in conversation. So I decided to pose the question to five other dermatologists. Here’s what you should know.

Car windshields are typically treated to protect drivers from ultraviolet rays that cause skin damage, but side and rear windows may not offer the same protection, said Dr. Jeremy Brauer, a dermatologist in New York City and a spokesman for the Skin Cancer Foundation.

“This means UV radiation can reach you through these windows,” he said, adding that chronic UVA exposure through windows can increase skin cancer risk.

When you’re in your car, protect your skin with sunglasses, clothing (such as long sleeves and a hat) and a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher, Dr. Brauer advised. “You can also consider installing UV-blocking window film on your car windows,” he said.

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