House WindowsIf you are extremely light sensitive, perhaps one of the first steps you need to take is to screen out the harmful light that enters the windows of your home. Even to screen a few of the most useful windows makes you feel more part of the world. DermaGard is a transparent window film applied to the inside of your window that screens out more than 99% of UV and is virtually unnoticeable. Bonwyke Window Films Ltd Ultimate Tinting - Specializing in application of films and in window tinting for vehicles, the home and commercial premises. Ultimate Tinting Fluorescent Tube Filters UV Photo-protective window filmMuseum Film 200 (UV Dermagard)
It is often assumed that protection against UV wavelengths (up to 380nm) will keep you safe. However some people are harmed by the blue spectrum of visible light (beyond 400nm). It is necessary to undergo light testing at a specialist light sensitivity unit to find out which wavelengths are harmful to you. (Details of these later.) If you need protection beyond UV, there are window films offering further protection, which can be found in the Bonwyke catalogue, though these may result in colour distortion or a very dim interior. Blinds If your local blind company cannot provide what you want either in blackout or anti-glare blinds contact the British Blind and Shutter Association (BBSA) and they will put you in touch with a range of companies who will: British Blind and Shutter Association Gro Anywhere Blind web: www.gro.co.uk Sun Visor Window Foil absorbs 87% of harmful UV rays. Simple to install – just press it against your window and static will ensure it remains in place with no need for adhesives. Can be cut to fit any size or shape. Can be obtained from the mail-order company Coopers of Stortford. Coopers of Stortford Car Windows Professional Vehicle Window Tinting Car Window Film and Visible Light Transmission (VLT) Passenger Sunshade For fuller advice see "Travelling Safely" in "Practical Aids". |
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Personal CoveringA person with severe light sensitivity should use a high factor sunscreen (SPF 50 or above) outdoors during all seasons, even on an overcast day. It is equally necessary to wear sunscreen indoors under energy saving lights, which emit high levels of UV and the blue spectrum of visible light. Some sunscreens can be obtained on prescription eg. Uvistat and Sunsense Ultra - ask you doctor about this. Eyes should be protected with prescription glasses, sunglasses or wraparound overglasses that screen out UV. More information about Choosing and Using Sunscreen can be found in the 'Information and Advice' section Some people may find sunscreen is insufficient and need fabric face shields. These are available from suppliers of sun-protective clothing, notably: Sunsibility in the UK Under "Practical Aids" there are instructions on making a transparent visor which will screen out UV. Face Shields and Masks Ski Masks or Balaclavas - for some of us sunscreen is not sufficient and we need more solid face shields. In winter you can get away with ski masks or balaclavas from sports outlets. These are especially useful if it is windy. Face Shields and Head Wraps - in warmer weather it is possible to use a face shield obtainable from Sunsibility in the UK or the Sun Precautions Company in the USA. Details below You can view/order items available on www.sunprecautions.com You can make your own head wraps and face shields by using sun-protective fabric. Hats and ClothingSuppliers of Hats and Clothing with an SPF of 40 or above United Kingdom: Sunsibility equatorsun Sunsuits.co.uk Sun Togs Rohan Designs Ltd Tilley Hats - Tilley have several SPF 50 hats that look good. They are practical, durable and well made. They now also sell SPF 50 clothes. Tilley Endurables Magellan's Travel Catalogue Overseas: Solumbra - if you are struggling to find a shady hat, the Solumbra range from America is aimed at people like us who need real protection. They have a variety of products marketed under the name Sun Precautions and a wide range of sun protective clothing called Solumbra. Their products can be ordered: By internet www.sunprecautions.com Solarweave Fabric - Screens out UV. Can be purchased online and sent to the UK if you want to make your own headscarves or clothes. Rockywoods Parasols Silver UV Protective Umbrellas - One-hand AutoRetract long or compact. Rob McAlister Ltd |
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Computers and TelevisionsAnti-radiation Filters Viking Direct Electrical Hypersensitivity The Powerwatch Handbook by Alasdair and Jean Philips This is an informative and easy to read guide with lots of practical advice. |
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Disclaimer: Please note that the products appearing in this factsheet, while they may be helpful to individuals, cannot be endorsed by LUPUS UK, its officers or members. Persons diagnosed or suspecting lupus and light sensitivity should always consult their own physician to ensure proper evaluation and treatment. |
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