![]() So, when talking about UV light disinfection, the focus is on UVC, says Malley. Still, it’s pretty damn impressive UVC, which has the shortest wavelength and the highest energy of all the UV radiation, is a known disinfectant for air, water, and nonporous surfaces. If you are concerned about any abnormal moles or skin discolorations as a result of years of unprotected sunbathing, please visit the UPMC Hillman Cancer Center website or call 41 to schedule an appointment.Įditor's Note: This article was originally published on July 30, 2014, and was last reviewed on April 25, 2022.UVC rays, on the other hand, never actually make it to the Earth’s surface (the ozone layer blocks ’em), so the only UVC light humans are exposed to is artificial, according to the FDA. By arming yourself with sunscreen, protective clothing, and the right sunglasses, you can safely enjoy outdoor activities today without fear of damage to your skin tomorrow. Summer days should be spent enjoying a little bit of sunshine - not worrying about the harmful effects of the sun and UV rays. Keep an eye on any changes in existing moles - or a new mole with an irregular shape or color - as it may be a sign of melanoma. However, reducing exposure to UV rays may not prevent melanoma. While it is difficult to eliminate UV exposure, it can be reduced by covering exposed portions of the body, wearing sunscreen, or wearing sunglasses. ![]() What Type of UV Ray Causes Melanoma?Ĭonsistent, unprotected exposure to UVA or UVB rays can cause melanoma, however UVB rays will penetrate the skin the deepest where melanoma originates. There is very little difference in the type of burn and no clear way to tell what type of UV ray caused your sunburn. UVB rays can penetrate the top layer of skin, meaning they can also cause sunburn. UVA rays will also penetrate the skin down to the middle layer (dermis). UVA rays are most likely to cause sunburns as they are the most prominent type of UV ray on earth. UVA rays can only penetrate the first layer of skin, while UVB rays can penetrate to the middle layer of skin and cause deep cancerous spots known as melanoma. UVC rays penetrate the body the least, mostly effecting weak points such as the eyes. Which Type of UV Ray is the Most Harmful?Ĭonsistent, unprotected exposure to any source of UV radiation can be harmful. Never look directly at a UVC light source. UVC rays cannot penetrate the skin as deeply as UVA or UVB, but UVC rays can be particularly harmful to the eyes. Man-made sources of radiation, however, such as lights, welding torches, or lasers also can emit UVC rays. ![]() UVC rays come from the sun, but the earth’s ozone layer prevents all UVC rays from reaching the earth’s surface. Sunscreen of SPF 30 or greater also will deflect UVB rays. Luckily UVB rays cannot pass through glass, so you are protected from UVB rays when in the car or at home. However, it does not stop all UVB rays, which can penetrate the skin deeper than UVA rays. The earth’s ozone layer prevents some UVB rays from reaching the earth’s surface. UVA rays can be deflected off the skin by using sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or greater. However, man-made sources of UVA rays can include lights made to mimic sunlight for therapy or tanning purposes. The sun is the main source of all UV rays on earth. ![]() How do you tell the different UV rays apart and how do they affect your skin?Ĭheck out the infographic below to learn your ABCs! UVA rays UVB rays, which affect skin’s top layer, cause skin cancer and most sunburns.Īlthough UVA and UVB rays pose the greatest risk for sun damage, people who work with welding torches or mercury lamps may be exposed to UVC rays - the most dangerous type of UV radiation. They are also strongly linked to skin cancer. UVA rays, which account for 95% of radiation that reaches the earth’s surface, cause wrinkles, sun spots, and other types of premature aging. The sun emits three different types of UV radiation: UVA, UVB, and UVC.Īll types of UV radiation have the potential to damage your skin, but each type affects your skin differently. UVC – All UVC rays from the sun are stopped by the ozone layer therefore, the only exposure humans get to UVC is from artificial sources such as lasers or welding torches.Some UVB rays are stopped by the earth’s ozone layer it can also be stopped by treated glass. UVB – A shorter wavelength than UVA that can only penetrate the skin to the top layer.UVA – The most common UV ray from the sun and most dangerous, UVA can penetrate the skin down to the middle layer.
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