We pay a lot of attention to the skin on our faces, while our hands often remain unprotected during daily commutes. Inside a car, the skin might feel shielded from sun and wind. Yet, glass does not block all UV radiation. Driving can therefore contribute to recurring UVA exposure to the hands. This exposure is not isolated. It comes on top of the UV that hands already receive daily while cycling, walking, exercising, and during other outdoor activities.
“DAILY EXPOSURE ADDS UP.”
THE INVISIBLE INFLUENCE OF UVA
UVB is primarily known as the radiation that causes redness and sunburn. Car windows block most of UVB. For UVA, it's different. UVA can penetrate through glass. The amount varies per type of car window. The windshield generally offers more protection than untreated side windows and a sunroof. While driving, hands often rest on or around the steering wheel. As a result, the backs of the hands are regularly exposed to light through the windshield and side windows. Because UVA usually does not cause immediate redness or sunburn, this exposure often goes unnoticed.
THE SCIENCE BEHIND PHOTOAGING
UVA penetrates deeper into the skin than UVB and can contribute to oxidative stress and the breakdown of collagen and elastin. This process is called photoaging. Over time, repeated UV exposure can contribute to loss of elasticity, fine lines, uneven skin tone, and pigment spots. It's not just about long drives or sunny vacation days. Daily car rides also count. No single ride determines the outcome. It's the cumulative effect over the years.
“THE SKIN REMEMBERS REPEAT EXPOSURE.”
WHY SPF ON HANDS REQUIRES EXTRA ATTENTION
Broad-spectrum SPF is a valuable form of protection, even when driving. On the hands, sunscreen simply requires extra attention. Hands are regularly washed and constantly touch the steering wheel, a phone, clothing, and other surfaces. As a result, the applied layer can wear off more quickly. Timely and even reapplication therefore remains important. Protective fabric can be used as an additional physical barrier on covered skin. SPF and UPF do not have to be mutually exclusive. They complement each other.
“SPF + UPF. BETTER TOGETHER.”
PROTECTED ON THE GO
Handsome Skin® has been developed for hands exposed to UV light during daily commutes and other outdoor activities. The open-tip gloves offer certified UPF 50+ protection. According to independent laboratory tests, the fabrics block more than 99% of UV radiation. Nails and fingertips remain free for touch, grip, and precision.
MY SHIELD offers a firmer, protective wearing sensation with more body.
MY MINERAL feels light, supple, and barely noticeable on the skin.
Both lines offer the same high standard of protection. The difference lies in the wearing sensation.
PROTECTION AS A HABIT
Hands unconsciously receive UVA while driving, on top of the UV they already receive daily. Meanwhile, protection only needs to be one simple step. Place the gloves in a fixed spot in the car and put them on before the drive begins. This way, UV protection becomes part of the routine, just like sunglasses or a seatbelt. No complicated action. But consistent protection at times when hands are often forgotten.
About Handsome Skin®
Handsome Skin® makes certified UV protection for hands simple, elegant, and demonstrable. MY SHIELD and MY MINERAL are designed with an open-tip design, so nails and fingertips remain free for touch, grip, and precision. Both lines offer certified UPF 50+ protection, are independently tested, and are made without chemical UV coating.