What Effect Does UV Rays Have On Human Skin And Eyes? Experts Explain

Excess ozone at Earth’s surface that is formed from pollutants is considered 'bad' ozone because it can be harmful to humans, plants, and animals.

Effect of UV Rays on skin and eyes

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The ozone layer, a fragile shield of gas, protects the Earth from the harmful portion of the rays of the sun, thus helping preserve life on the planet. Ozone in the stratosphere absorbs some of the Sun’s biologically harmful ultraviolet radiation. Because of this beneficial role, stratospheric ozone is considered 'good' ozone. In contrast, excess ozone at Earth’s surface that is formed from pollutants is considered 'bad' ozone because it can be harmful to humans, plants, and animals.

In this regard, Prof Aniruddha Mukhopadhayay, who is the Head Of Department of Environmental Science at University of Calcutta said, "Ozone can be destroyed more quickly than it is naturally created. The ozone depleting substances (ODS) are CFCs ,HCFC,halon etc which come from solvents, refrigerants, foam blowing substances, propellants and some other sources. Normally the ozone layer acts as a natural filter absorbing UV rays. Stratospheric ozone depletion leads to an increased UV-B that reaches the earth's surface, causing damage to biological objects in particular and environment in general. Ozone depletion can cause a huge health impact in humans."

Effects Of UV Rays On Human Skin

Ultraviolet (UV) rays are a form of ionising radiation emitted by the sun and artificial sources like tanning beds. While UV rays are essential for the production of vitamin D and have some health benefits, excessive exposure can have detrimental effects on human skin, with a significant link to skin cancer.

Dr Sourav Ghosh, who is the Medical Director at Techno India Dama Hospital said, "UV rays are categorized into UVA and UVB rays. UVA rays penetrate the skin's deeper layers, causing premature ageing, wrinkles, and contributing to the development of skin cancers like melanoma. UVB rays primarily affect the skin's surface and are a leading cause of sunburn and non-melanoma skin cancers, such as basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma and melanoma as well."

"Prolonged and unprotected exposure to UV radiation damages the DNA in skin cells. This DNA damage can lead to mutations that trigger uncontrolled cell growth, which is a hallmark of cancer. Melanoma, in particular, is highly associated with UV exposure, and individuals with a history of sunburns or excessive UV exposure are at a higher risk," he further added.

Skin cancer rates have been on the rise, underscoring the importance of sun protection. Using sunscreen with a high SPF, wearing protective clothing, sunglasses, and seeking shade during peak sunlight hours can help reduce the risk of UV-induced skin cancer. Regular skin checks, early detection, and prompt treatment are vital in managing the disease.

Thus, UV rays from the sun and tanning devices have a significant impact on human skin, increasing the risk of skin cancer, especially melanoma. Practicing sun-safe behaviours, including sunscreen use and protective clothing, is crucial in minimizing this risk and promoting overall skin health. Skin cancer prevention and awareness efforts play a pivotal role in reducing the burden of this potentially deadly disease.

Harmful Effects Of Ultraviolet (UV) Radiation On Eyes

Dr. Devi Unnikrishnan, who is an Ophthalmologist at Disha Eye Hospitals said, UV (ultraviolet) rays pose a significant threat to our eyes. Prolonged exposure to UV radiation from the sun can lead to various eye problems. We should focus not only on our skin but also on our eyes when it comes to UV protection"

She then went on to list how UV Rays affect our eyes:

• Cataract Formation: UV exposure increases the risk of developing cataracts, a clouding of the eye's natural lens leading to blurred vision, and if left untreated, can cause blindness.
• Macular Degeneration: Prolonged exposure to UV radiation can contribute to macular degeneration – a leading cause of vision loss in older adults.
• Cancer of the Eyelids and Surrounding Skin: The delicate skin around our eyes is susceptible to skin cancers like basal cell carcinoma due to UV exposure.
• Pterygium and Piguecula: Pterygium is a growth on the white of the eye, which can extend to the cornea, leading to astigmatism and vision disturbances. Pinguecula is yellowish, raised growths on the white of the eye which are benign and often harmless. They can become inflamed, causing discomfort.
• Photokeratitis (Snow Blindness): Just like how your skin can get sunburned, so can your eyes. Photokeratitis is essentially a sunburn of the eye's cornea, causing pain, redness, and temporary vision loss.

Talking about preventive measures she recommended to wear protective sunglasses that block UV A and UV B rays, broad rim hats, sunscreen with minimum SPF 30, UV protective googles while swimming.