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Does Glass Block UV?

Published in UV Protection 1 min read

Yes, glass does block UV radiation, but the extent of blockage depends on the type of glass.

Here's a breakdown:

  • UVB Radiation: Standard, transparent glass effectively blocks most UVB radiation. UVB is the type of UV radiation primarily responsible for sunburn.

  • UVA Radiation: Ordinary glass allows a significant amount of UVA radiation to pass through. UVA contributes to skin aging and certain types of skin cancer.

  • Specially Designed Glass: Some types of glass are specifically manufactured to block a higher percentage of both UVA and UVB rays. This type of glass is often used in car windshields and windows designed for UV protection.

In summary, while most glass offers some protection against UVB, it's not sufficient to prevent UVA exposure and the associated risks. For better UV protection, look for windows with UV-blocking properties.

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