If you live in or near the greater Austin area, you’re probably familiar with the city’s traffic problems. Interstate 35 has some of the nation’s worst congestion. Average daily commuting times exceed 80 minutes in several neighborhoods, according to the Austin Business Journal. They include Anderson Arbor, Tress Sonesta and Turtle Rock Estates.

Long-Term Exposure to Sunlight

Like many cities in Texas, Austin experiences plenty of cloudless weather. The sun shines brightly for over 300 days in an average year. Local skies remain clear especially often between June and December. Consequently, motorists expose themselves to ultraviolet rays for long periods of time as they drive and sit in traffic jams. Many people mistakenly believe that automotive glass fully protects them.

Two Different Types of UV Rays

Exposure to UVB rays can cause visible sunburns. Standard window glass provides thorough protection from this kind of radiation. On the other hand, UVA rays pass through most glass. They promote faster aging by causing skin cells to deteriorate more quickly. People don’t suffer any significant discomfort, so they often wait too long to take action. Others completely fail to recognize the source of the problem.

Additional Health Effects of UVA

These ultraviolet rays won’t just make you look older than your age. Clinical studies link UVA exposure to a greater likelihood of developing skin cancer. They confirm that regular automotive glass doesn’t protect motorists. People face the greatest danger when they use vehicles throughout the day. Truck, taxi and bus drivers must take precautions. Although it doesn’t happen as quickly, commuters also receive enough exposure to increase their cancer risk.

Defend Your Skin With Window Tint

Fortunately, you can shield your body from harmful ultraviolet energy with the help of window tinting film. This material almost completely blocks UVA rays. In addition to protecting your skin, it prevents a vehicle’s upholstery from fading. The film will also stop at least two-fifths of the sun’s heat from entering your car. You won’t need to run the air conditioner as frequently.

The window tinting specialists at Sunbusters install high-quality films on many different vehicles. Our award-winning company has over two decades of experience in this industry. We use a computerized process that precisely cuts the material and prevents glass damage. Sunbusters’ window films block 99.9 percent of ultraviolet rays. Please visit or contact us to learn more.