Understanding UV Waves: Sunburns, Suntans & Protection

Ultraviolet (UV) waves cause suntan and sunburn. UV waves are a type of electromagnetic radiation, like visible light, but with shorter wavelengths. UV waves are divided into three types: UVA, UVB, and UVC.

* UVA waves have the longest wavelengths and are the least harmful. They are responsible for most suntans.

* UVB waves have shorter wavelengths and are more harmful than UVA waves. They are responsible for most sunburns.

* UVC waves have the shortest wavelengths and are the most harmful. They are mostly absorbed by the ozone layer and do not reach the Earth's surface.

Suntans and sunburns are both caused by damage to the skin's DNA. UV waves can damage the DNA in skin cells, causing them to mutate or die. This damage can lead to the formation of wrinkles, age spots, and skin cancer.