UVA & UVB

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Ultraviolet (UV) radiation is the leading risk factor for skin cancer. Prolonged sun exposure—whether you're at the beach, gardening, or skiing—can significantly increase your chances of developing skin cancer. The first step in protecting yourself is understanding how UV rays affect your skin and how to stay safe while still enjoying the outdoors.

What Is UV Radiation?

UV radiation is a form of invisible energy produced by the sun. Unlike visible light, UV rays have shorter wavelengths, so you can’t see them—but your skin can certainly feel them.

Tanning beds are also a source of artificial UV radiation. In fact, tanning beds use unfiltered UV, making them especially dangerous and increasing your skin cancer risk dramatically with regular use.

The Two Types of Harmful UV Radiation

There are two types of UV rays known to cause skin cancer:

Ultraviolet A (UVA):

• Penetrates deeper into the skin than UVB 
• Leads to premature aging, including wrinkles, pigmentation, and rough skin texture 
• Triggers tanning as the skin attempts to protect itself—but tanned skin is damaged skin
• Can penetrate through windows, meaning you're exposed even indoors or in your car
   

Ultraviolet B (UVB):

• Damages the outer layers of the skin
• Responsible for sunburns and blistering 
• Most intense between 10 AM and 4 PM, at high altitudes, and in reflective environments like snow or ice
   

Why UV Radiation Is Dangerous

Both UVA and UVB rays:

• Cause DNA damage in skin cells 
• Lead to premature aging (wrinkles, sun spots, uneven tone) 
• Increase the risk of all major types of skin cancer
   

Even your eyes are at risk—UV exposure can cause cataracts, eye damage, and eyelid cancers.

UV and Skin Cancer

• Basal Cell Carcinoma and Squamous Cell Carcinoma are often caused by chronic, long-term sun exposure 
• Melanoma, the deadliest form of skin cancer, is strongly linked to sunburns and intense intermittent exposure (like a bad burn on vacation)
   

Remember: UV damage builds up over time. Even if you’ve had a lot of sun exposure in the past, it’s never too late to start protecting your skin.

How to Protect Yourself

You don’t have to hide from the sun—just be smart about it! Here's how to enjoy the outdoors safely:

• Wear broad-spectrum sunscreen daily (SPF 30 or higher)
• Use UPF-rated clothing, hats, and sunglasses
• Avoid peak sun hours (10 AM – 4 PM)
• Seek shade when possible
• Skip the tanning beds

Your skin remembers every sunburn. Make today the day you start protecting it. Your future self will thank you.