Name the types of UV rays that can lead to skin cancer.

Get ready for your South Carolina Esthetician State Board Exam. Study with flashcards and multiple-choice questions, each providing hints and detailed explanations. Prepare effectively for your upcoming exam!

UVA and UVB rays are both types of ultraviolet radiation that can significantly contribute to the development of skin cancer. UVA rays penetrate the skin more deeply and are primarily responsible for aging effects like wrinkles and pigmentation, but they also play a role in the development of skin cancers because they can damage the DNA in skin cells. UVB rays, on the other hand, are associated more with sunburn and superficial skin damage and are also key players in triggering skin cancer, particularly melanoma and non-melanoma types.

The combination of these two types of UV rays makes them particularly dangerous, as they have different wavelengths and can affect the skin in various ways, cumulatively increasing the risk of skin abnormalities that can lead to cancer. UVC rays are primarily filtered out by the Earth's atmosphere and do not typically reach the surface, thus having a minimal impact in the context of skin cancer. Knowing the roles of UVA and UVB is crucial for understanding sun safety and implementing effective sun protection strategies.

Subscribe

Get the latest from Examzify

You can unsubscribe at any time. Read our privacy policy