Why Is Ultra Violet Light a Problem?

Ultraviolet light is a form of energy that comes both from the sun and from products such as sun lamps. While the energy from the sun is necessary for all life, too much exposure to ultraviolet light can be damaging to the human body.

UVC

• UVC ultraviolet light causes painful corneal burns, blindness and a severe sunburn to the face.

UVB

• UVB ultraviolet rays are able to penetrate the earth's atmosphere and can cause permanent changes to DNA. Exposure causes cataracts and sunburn. UVB also increases the chances of skin cancer.

UVA

• UVA is the type of light that increases skin pigmentation. Overexposure to UVA can cause cataracts, a weakened immune system and toughened skin.

Invisible Damage

• All forms of ultraviolet light can cause damage that is not immediately noticeable. Long-term problems such as skin cancer can develop without the sufferer initially realizing how much sunlight he or she was exposed to.

Benefits

• While ultraviolet light can cause damage, this light is also beneficial. Ultraviolet light is necessary for the human body to synthesize vitamin D.

Prevention/Solution

• Sunglasses and sunscreen can protect the skin from excessive ultraviolet light exposure.