can you get a tan through a car windshield

[AugustFitz]

Yes, you can get a tan through a car windshield, but the level of tanning is significantly reduced compared to direct sunlight. The key factor is the type of Ultraviolet (UV) radiation involved in tanning. Sunlight contains UV-A and UV-B rays. UV-B is primarily responsible for sunburn, while UV-A penetrates deeper into the skin, triggering melanin production that leads to tanning.

Standard automotive windshields are made of laminated glass, which is highly effective at blocking over 90% of UV-B and a significant portion of UV-A rays. However, they are not 100% effective. A small percentage of UV-A radiation can still pass through, and cumulative exposure during long drives can indeed cause tanning and contribute to skin aging. In contrast, most side and rear windows are made from tempered glass, which offers much less UV-A protection.

This difference explains why you might notice more tanning or even sun damage on your left arm compared to your right arm in the U.S., where the driver sits on the left side of the car. For consistent protection, applying a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher is recommended, even for daily driving.

Car Window Type	Glass Construction	Typical UV-B Blocking	Typical UV-A Blocking
Windshield	Laminated	>99%	~90-95%
Side/Rear Windows	Tempered	>99%	~50-70%
Aftermarket Tinting	Film Application	>99%	Up to 99%

[SanAriel]

Absolutely, you can. I drive a truck for a living, and my left arm is permanently darker than my right. The windshield cuts most of the burning rays, but the tanning ones still get through over time. It’s not a deep, beach-level tan, but it’s a slow, steady coloring you notice after weeks on the road. My advice? Wear sunscreen on your hands, face, and arms every single day, no matter the weather. It’s a habit now, like putting on my seatbelt.

[LaDakota]

Yes, tanning is possible through a car windshield due to UVA radiation penetration. While the glass provides excellent protection against sunburn-causing UVB rays, it is not a complete barrier to UVA. These rays are associated with skin aging and can stimulate melanin production. For effective protection, especially during long commutes, a daily moisturizer with SPF is a simple and crucial step for skin health.