Sun exposure on the flight deck

On an aviation forum, a pilot asked if it might be a good idea to use sunscreen while working on the flight deck. I wrote an answer to the question. The answer is: Yes it is a very good idea for pilots to use sun screen!

Here's the scoop on sun exposure for pilots:

The concentration of ultraviolet (UV) rays -- the ones that can cause sunburn, skin cancer, and other problems -- is greater at altitude than on the ground. The higher up you go, the less of the Earth's atmosphere you have between you and the sun. The atmosphere normally acts to filter out some of the sun's rays before they reach the ground.

Pilots are exposed to substantial doses of UV rays through the flight deck windscreen while flying. This can lead to skin damage of several varieties, ranging from premature aging and wrinkles to skin cancer.

UV rays also can do serious damage to the damage the eyes, causing cataracts, a disorder that clouds the lens of the eye and may ultimately result in partial or full blindness. UV exposure also can cause inflammation of the corneas, the irises, and the membranes that line the eyelids.

What to do?

Keep your arms covered while flying, if possible. Use a sunscreen product on your face, neck, arms and lips. What brand you choose is a matter of personal preference, but according to the American Academy of Dermatology, you would be wise to choose one that's waterproof, so that it doesn't come off if you sweat.

Suncreen products now come labeled with 'SPF' numbers. SPF stands for Sun Protection Factor. Products with higher SPF numbers -- SPF 15 or greater -- offer the most protection against UVB rays.

By the way, there is no approved rating system for protection against UVA rays.

Have a look at Facts About Sunscreens on the American Academy of Dermatology's website for more help in how to choose and use suncreens.

Select sunglasses carefully. It may surprise you to learn that polarized and mirror-coated lenses are not necessarily the best. Look for a label or hang-tag that indicates that the sunglasses block both UVA and UVB rays. Choose sunglasses that block 99% - 100% of UV light (both UVA and UVB).

The World Health Organization (WHO) recommends sunglasses with wrap-around lenses or side panels, to prevent damaging rays from sneaking in at the sides. Even if this style is not your usual preference, it might be a good idea to have a pair like this for use on the flight deck. You can always change to another style that you prefer once you are back on the ground!

A final note: Given that professional pilots have greater occupational exposure to UV rays, it would be a good idea for them to get checked regularly for early signs of skin cancer. Skin cancer screening takes only a few minutes, and is non-invasive. No needles, no Xrays, no blood tests: all it takes is a visual examination of the skin by a qualified person.

The American Academy of Dermatology sponsors FREE skin cancer screening in communities around the US. The exams are done by volunteer dermatologists. You can use the Skin Cancer Screening Map on the AAD website to locate a skin cancer screening center in a community near you. The listings are updated regularly.

Pilots, protect yourselves!!

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