Admin How does UV light damage the skin?
Unprotected exposure to UVA and UVB damages the DNA in skin cells, producing genetic defects, or mutations, that can lead to skin cancer (as well as premature aging.) These rays can also cause eye damage, including cataracts and eyelid cancers.
How does UV affect melanin?
Melanin protects skin from the sun’s ultraviolet rays. These can burn the skin and reduce its elasticity, leading to premature aging. People tan because sunlight causes the skin to produce more melanin and darken.
The high energy light rays of UV light are able to cause chemical changes within the DNA molecules, changing their chemical structure and breaking bonds. As MedlinePlus explains, this can cause the skin cells to become weak and die off, leading to the skin appearing to be abnormally old. This skin damage can also cause wrinkles to occur.
How does ultraviolet light affect your skin?
Ultraviolet light stimulates the activity of an enzyme called tyrosinase, which is responsible for beginning the series of chemical reactions that turns an amino acid (tyrosine) into melanin. When ultraviolet light penetrates into the interior of melanocytes, it reacts with molecules within the melanocyte that normally inhibit tyrosinase.
How to prevent harmful effects of ultraviolet light?
Seek shade. An obvious but very important way to limit your exposure to UV light is to avoid being outdoors in direct sunlight too long.
How dangerous is UV radiation?
Exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation is a major risk factor for most skin cancers. Sunlight is the main source of UV rays. Tanning lamps and beds are also sources of UV rays. People who get a lot of UV exposure from these sources are at greater risk for skin cancer.