What is UV radiation?
UV (ultraviolet) radiation is light with wavelengths shorter than those visible to the human eye. The human eye responds to light with wavelengths from about 430 nanometer (violet) to 790 nanometer (red). UV light rays are energy that’s moving rapidly. Humans are not really designed to be exposed to large amounts of UV radiation.
Scientists divide UV radiation into three categories by wavelengths: UVA (315 – 400 nm), UVB (290 – 315 nm) and UVC (220-290 nm). UVA radiation is the largest component to reach the earth’s surface. Its wavelengths are longer than UVB and can penetrate deeper into the layers of our skin. UVA is thought to be the main cause of skin aging. UVA radiation also contributes to photochemical smog, fading and damage to woods, plastics, paints and fabrics.
UV exposure in general can cause skin cancer, premature aging of the skin, wrinkles, cataracts and other eye damage. Only 1% of solar radiation is within the UVB band, and most of this is absorbed by the ozone layer. Nevertheless, UVB wavelengths are those that can cause the most damage to human skin. UVC radiation is totally absorbed by the ozone and other gases, and does not reach the Earth’s surface. Even small doses of radiation can cause significant harm over time. In addition, small changes in the ozone layer can cause significantly more UVB radiation to reach the earth’s surface.
Johnson Window Films Can Help
Each Johnson film line has unique solar properties that block UV, reduce heat and glare in varying degrees. All of our Solar Control Films reject 99% or more of both UVA and UVB rays and have special UV inhibitors built right in. With virtually all harmful UV rays effectively blocked, you can live in comfort knowing you are protected.
