II. Mechanism: Ultraviolet Light Spectrum
- Ultraviolet A
- UVA strikes earth 10-100 times more than UVB
- UVA I (Longer Wavelength): 340-400 nm
- UVA II (Shorter Wavelength): 320-340 nm
- Ultraviolet B
- More damaging to skin then UVA
- Wavelength: 290-320 nm
III. Adverse Effects: Ultraviolet Light - Skin Effects
- Photoaging (Wrinkles, discoloration): UVB and UVA
- Sunburn Causes: UVB and UVA II
- Skin Cancer: UVB more commonly causes Skin Cancer
- Photosensitivity Reaction: UVA
IV. Prevention
- Use Sunscreen with SPF 15 or higher
- Zinc Oxide, Titanium Dioxide, Mexoryl block UVA
- Other agents block UVA less or are less heat stable
- Avoid Sun Exposure 10 am to 3 pm
- Avoid Sun Exposure on high Ultraviolet Index days
- National Weather Service forecasts UV Index daily
- Wear a hat with 3 inch brim all around
- Baseball cap or visor does not adequately protect
- Wear Sunglasses with 99-100% UV protection
- Wear protective clothing
- Avoid artificial tanning
- Perform Self Skin Exam regularly