Parents

What are UV Rays?

UV radiation is a type of ionizing radiation emited by the sun, as well as commonly by tanning beds.

How are UV Rays dangerous to the skin?

UV rays are a form ionizing radiation, which are known to damage the DNA in cells. UV radiation is made up of UVA and UVB rays, which are characterized by there wavelengths and ability to penetrate the skin. 

UVA rays penetrate deeply into the skins dermis layer, and have the ability to cause indirect damage to the DNA of Cells. UVA rays make up 95% of the sun's UV rays.

UVB rays effect the skins epidermis (top) layer of skin. UVB rays directly damage the DNA of cells, and make up 5% of the suns UV rays.

How do you find the level of UV radisation in your area?

The level of UV radiation in an area changes constantly. You can locate the strength of UV radiation in an area by checking your weather app or tuning into your local weather station. 

What are the different levels of UV Radiation?

Ultra Violent light is measured on a 0 to 11+ scale, with the higher the number meaning the greater strength of UV rays. The strength of UV rays in an area is extremly helpful when determining the level of protection needed from the sun on a daily basis.

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What is Melanoma?

Melanoma is the most dangerous form of skin cancer that develop in the skins melanocytes which control the pigment of  skin.

What causes Melanoma?

Melanoma is most commonly caused by contious exposure to UV radiation. 

Risk factors:

How do you identify skin cancer?

Unusual characteristics in moles may indicate skin cancer.

Characteristics of moles that can indicate skin cancer:

Unusual characteristics in moles should be examined by a doctor.

How long does it take for skin cancer to develop?

Skin cancer can develop due to years of UV light exposure. A majority of sun exposure occurs in adolecence.

Does the color of your skin change the effect of the sun on your skin?

Yes, accorrding to a study done by Healthline, individuals with darker skin tones are 20 times less likely to become sun burnt and. or develop skin cancer when compared to lighter skin. No matter your skin tone, you should use the same level of protection from the sun to lower your risk.


Why are lighter skin tones at a greater risk for developing skin conditions and sunburns?

Lighter skin tones have less melanocytes, which protect your skin from UV light, making it easier for UV light to penetrate the skin and cause complications.

Why is it important that kids wear sun screen at a young age?

A majority of sun exposure occurs in adolecence. Sun protection is extremly critical in adolecence as the natural defense mechanism in child skin is not yet fully develop. Due to this, kids get sunburnt much eaiser than adults.

How do sun burns at a young age effect a childs risk of developing skin cancer when older?

Many studies including one by the Skin Cancer Foundation, have proven that every sunburn in adolesence can double your chances of developing skin cancer later in life.

Are there any other negative effects of prolonged UV light exposure?

Prolonged UV light exposure can also cause:

How can you reduce your risk of being negatively impacted by UV light?

What should you look for when buying sunscreen?

According to the FDA, when choosing a sun-screen, you should look for:

What should you do if you get a sunburn?