Most of us find ourselves comfortably seated at 30,000 feet above sea level, for business or for pleasure. What we don’t know is that air travel can cause skin tanning and can have adverse effects on mature skin. Being exposed to higher levels of UV radiation can not only cause tanning due to melanin production, but can also cause skin damage due to UVA and UVB radiation exposure. UVA radiations are more harmful as they penetrate deeper into the skin, leading to premature ageing. We spoke to Divya Mehta, Co-founder of Epique, a Swiss skin care brand, to know how we can prepare ourselves better to fight it.
UV radiation is stronger as it is closer to the sun
At 30,000 feet above sea level, we are closer to the sun’s harmful rays. In fact, the UV levels are approximately twice that of the ground. Also, for every additional 3,000 feet increase in altitude, there is a 15 per cent increase in the intensity of UV radiation.
Cabin windows don’t protect against UVA rays
The cabin windows on an airplane can block UVB rays, but minimally filter the more harmful UVA rays. These result in tanning, spots, premature ageing and wrinkles. Studies have shown that an hour of flying with the sun beating down on you is equal to 15-20 minutes on a tanning bed.
Different landscapes, different UV reflection intensity
Think you are safe flying through cloud cover with no sun in sight, or over snowfields? Not quite. Thick clouds and snow-covered areas can reflect up to 85 per cent of UV radiation. So your skin is exposed to harmful radiation for a long time leading to irreparable damage.
Sunscreen is a must at height too
People often underestimate the intensity of sun damage to their skin. As skin matures, it needs more care. Simple steps can help mature skin retain its elasticity and stay younger longer. UV protection during a flight is a necessity. Remember to always carry a broad spectrum (UVA+UVB) sunscreen with minimum SPF of 30.