UV radiation has both beneficial and harmful effects. When someone exposes their skin to sunlight, it stimulates vitamin D production, which is necessary for healthy bones and muscles. However, UV radiation can also cause sunburn and skin aging. In the long term, it is one of the leading causes of skin cancer.

Ultraviolet (UV) radiation is a form of non-ionizing radiation that is emitted by the sun and artificial sources. The beneficial effects of UV radiation include the production of a vital nutrient, vitamin D. However, overexposure may present risks. Sunburn, premature aging, and skin cancer are all risks to overexposure.

Ultraviolet radiation damages collagen, destroys vitamin A in the skin, harms the eyes, and causes DNA damage. UVB overexposure produces a sunburn, which is a visible sign of skin damage. Chronic exposure to UV radiation, including both UVA and UVB, is associated with premature skin aging and an increased risk of skin cancer.

Unlike X-rays, ultraviolet radiation has a low power of penetration; hence, its direct effects on the human body are limited to the surface skin. The direct effects include reddening of the skin (sunburn), pigmentation development (suntan), aging, and carcinogenic changes.

UVA can cause sunburn, DNA (cell) damage in the skin and skin cancer. UVB causes skin damage and skin cancer. Ozone stops most UVB from reaching the earth’s surface, about 15% is transmitted. UVC is the most dangerous type of UV. Ozone in the atmosphere absorbs all UVC and it does not reach the earth’s surface.