Most of us remember to slather on sunscreen before a day at the pool or a long hikes, but don’t think much about sun exposure while driving. Whether you’re commuting to work, running errands or riding along on a road trip, UV rays can reach your skin through your car windows, and that exposure can add up over time.It’s easy to forget, but it’s definitely worth paying attention to. According to the American Academy of Dermatology, skin cancer is the most common cancer in the United States, and an estimated one in five Americans will develop it during their lifetime. As HuffPost has previously reported, dermatologists say it’s often the everyday sun exposure we overlook that can cause the most damage — and even lead to skin cancer — over time. That includes the hours that many of us spend behind the wheel. While your windshield helps block some UV rays, side windows don’t offer the same level of protection. That means your hands, arms, face and even your lips may still be exposed, even with the windows up. The good news is that protecting your skin on the road doesn’t have to be complicated. A few simple additions, like an SPF 30 body lotion, UPF 50+ driving gloves, SPF 30 lip balm, UV-blocking sunglasses, protective clothing and a window sunshade, can help make every drive a little more skin-friendly. Here’s a list of everyday essentials worth bringing along for the ride.WalmartA calming SPF 30 lotion for daytime wearBefore you grab your key fob, smooth on this lightweight SPF 30 body lotion to help protect your skin during everything from a quick grocery run to a long drive. Made with aloe, rice milk and squalane, it’s designed to hydrated while helping calm sensitive skin without leaving behind a heavy feel.AmazonSome SPF 30 lip balmIt's easy to remember sunscreen for your face and completely forget about your lips. SPF 30 lip balms help protect one of the most overlooked areas while aloe and vitamin E help keep lips soft and moisturized. The three-pack comes in pomegranate, kiwi and coconut scents, making it easy to keep one in your glove compartment at all times.goodrA pair of UV 400 sunniesA good pair of sunglasses does more than cut down on glare. These geometric cat-eye frames feature UV 400 lenses with UVA and UVB protection to help shield your eyes while making bright drives more comfortable. The impact-resistant lenses and frames come in four color options.AmazonA pair of UPF 50+ driving glovesThese UPF 50+ driving gloves help shield your hands, one of the most sun-exposed parts of your body. The stretchy fabric is comfortable enough for daily wear, while designed to let you grip the steering wheel, check directions or grab your coffee without taking them off. They come in 12 colors and sizes XS-XL.Amazon... or some cooling arm sleevesAre you sick of one arm getting more sun than the other while driving? These UPF 50+ sleeves offer an easy way to cover up without constantly reapplying sunscreen. The moisture-wicking fabric feels great against your skin, while the seamless stretch fit stays put without feeling restrictive. Keep a pair in your center console so they're always within reach.AmazonA zip-up sun hoodieEver notice one arm gets more sun than the other while driving? This UPF 50+ zip-up hoodie provides extra coverage without feeling bulky. The breathable fabric helps keep you cool, while the high collar protects your neck and chest. It also has two zippered side pockets, two interior pockets, and comes in 23 colors in sizes XS-3XL.AmazonA UPF 50+ gaiter for protecting your lower face and neckYour neck, ears and lower face are easy to forget until they've spent hours in the sun. This UPF 50+ neck gaiter adds extra coverage without feeling bulky and can be worn as a neck gaiter, face covering, headband, sweatband or lightweight balaclava. It's available in seven color patterns.AmazonA versatile convertible visorKeep this UPF 50+ visor handy for car rides. The extra-wide brim helps shade your face, ears and neck, while the lightweight fabric keeps you comfy on warm days. It quickly converts into an open-top visor, folds flat and comes in seven colors.Forever BeaumoreA removable sunshadeWhen the afternoon sun starts beaming through your side window, this removable sunshade helps cut down on glare while adding another layer between you and the sun. It slides into place in seconds without tools or permanent installation. Use it on the passenger and rear windows while driving or on the driver's side when parked. It's available in pink and taupeAmazonA UPF 50+ sun shawl for versatile coverageYou'll be glad you tossed this UPF 50+ sun shawl in the backseat. Drape it across your lap, shoulders or arms for added coverage on drives, then take it with you to the park or beach after. Measuring 40 by 30 inches, it's machine washable and comes in eight color options. Another option: This shawl from Solbari that HuffPost editor Gina Escandon swears by.The experts consulted for this story do not necessarily endorse the products ahead unless otherwise noted.Trending In ShoppingMore In Shopping
The Crucial Moment You're Likely Forgetting To Protect Yourself From Skin Cancer — And How To Fix It
A few simple additions can help make every drive a little more skin-friendly.







