Sun exposure affects the skin throughout a person’s lifetime. The sun emits an invisible form of radiation called ultraviolet (UV) radiation, which can damage the skin. There are three types of UV rays: ultraviolet A (UVA), ultraviolet B (UVB) and ultraviolet C (UVC). UVA rays are the most abundant rays at the earth’s surface, whereas UVB rays are the most harmful. UVC rays are especially damaging to the skin. However, they are completely absorbed by the ozone layer (the protective layer in the earth’s atmosphere) and never reach the surface of the earth.

UV radiation interacts with the skin and causes it to produce melanin, the pigment that gives skin its color. When the darker colored melanin reaches the top layer of the skin, it results in a “suntan.” Eventually, the UV rays will cause the skin to burn. Sunburn is often accompanied by redness, swelling and pain in the affected region(s).

Some people tan very easily and rarely burn, whereas others burn very easily and rarely develop a tan. A variety of factors determine whether an individual tans or burns after sun exposure, including skin type, amount of recent sun exposure and time of year.

No one is immune from the risk of sun damage. However some individuals are more likely to sustain damage than others, including people with fair skin and light-colored eyes, individuals with many moles, birthmarks or freckles and those with a family history of skin cancer.