Will my car's sunroof protect my skin?

Published: January 11, 2015 08:00 AM

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Q. Do the sunroofs and moonroofs in cars provide UVA and UVB protection, or should people with skin cancer stay away from them?—Michael Zamm, New York, NY

A. In the United States, automotive glass must meet certain federal standards, such as allowing the maximum amount of light for driver visibility. But there are no such standards for sun protection, which varies by vehicle—and even by window. Windshields provide the most sun protection, but sunroofs are often made to block about 90 percent of UV rays. (That protection also keeps the car—and you—cool.) Even so, the bottom line is that if you have a car with a sunroof, you're best protected by applying a sunscreen with an SPF of 15 or higher a half-hour before you drive. (Make sure that the product covers your face, neck, arms, and hands.) If you have thinning hair, wear a hat to protect your scalp.

For more information on sun protection, check our sunscreen buying guide and Ratings.

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Editor's Note:

This article also appeared in the February 2015 issue of Consumer Reports magazine.