Studies published in The New England Journal of Medicine and Clinical Interventions In Aging suggested that office workers, commuters and residents who are regularly exposed to indoor sunlight may be at risk for certain health problems.
The two independent investigations assessed whether asymmetric facial ultraviolet-A (UVA) light exposure led to differences in skin physiology and morphology. Chronic UVA exposure can result in epidermal thickening, as well as destruction of the skin's elastic fibers, leading to photoaging. The studies aimed to examine the visual and non-visual impacts of repeated subjection to UVA through windows.
Dr. Howard S. Goldberg, of the Cosmetic Dermatology & Aesthetic Laser Center in Swampscott, MA, told the International Window Film Association, "Indoors or out, the sun's harmful UV rays damage unprotected skin. The damage is cumulative, adding up over time, this is why people need to limit their exposure to these rays. Window film is a smart way to reduce the sun's damaging rays."
While many people think spending time indoors can protect from the harmful effects of sunlight, the truth is that natural sunshine entering through unprotected windows can cause just as much damage as direct exposure to the sun outside. Rays of sunlight are deeply penetrating, and ultraviolet radiation can freely pass through unprotected windows onto the skin.
The best protection for skin indoors is professionally installed window film, which can block up to 99% of harmful UV rays. Michigan Glass Coatings offers a number of window film solutions, such as the 3M Prestige Window Film, that are created to block out damaging rays and heat without hindering beautiful natural light from entering your home or office.