What are the effects of UV radiation on the skin?

UV radiation has well-documented adverse effects on the skin, primarily leading to premature aging and an increased risk of skin cancer. When the skin is exposed to UV rays, it can cause damage at the cellular level. This damage accelerates the aging process, contributing to wrinkles, fine lines, and loss of skin tone and elasticity. Furthermore, prolonged and unprotected exposure to UV radiation increases the likelihood of developing various types of skin cancer, including melanoma, basal cell carcinoma, and squamous cell carcinoma. These effects underscore the critical importance of sun protection in skincare routines to guard against UV-related damage.

The incorrect options do not accurately reflect the known impacts of UV radiation. Increased skin hydration, improvement in skin texture, and increased elasticity are not effects attributed to UV exposure; in fact, the opposite is true as UV rays tend to degrade skin structure and function rather than enhance it.