Ultraviolet (UV) radiation is a major cause of skin cancer. But the rays from the sun may also cause other skin disorders throughout life. Some people may be more prone to damage from the sun than others. UV light may result in many different skin reactions in different people.
Premature Aging
Wrinkles are directly related to sun exposure, the American Academy of Dermatology says. The UV light can cause fine and coarse wrinkling, irregular pigmentation, redness and leathery, rough or thick skin. Fair-skinned people are more vulnerable to these effects, but everyone can have aged skin from overexposure to the sun. It may take many years of exposure to UV rays for the skin to be affected, and proper protection from the sun may help avoid the aging effects.
Hives
Also known as solar urticaria, the large, itchy red bumps may develop in some people after only a few minutes of exposure to UV radiation. Symptoms may also include headaches, dizziness and nausea. The hives may last for only a few hours. Some people have this condition throughout their lives while others have it only for a short time and the sun no longer affects them.
Photosensitivity
Some people have a chemical photosensitivity that causes inflammation, redness or brown discoloration in areas of the skin after being exposed to sunlight. But it usually occurs after the person has taken certain drugs or uses such chemicals as perfume or aftershave lotion. The chemicals make the skin more sensitive to UV light. Other people suffer from red bumps and patches from sun exposure for no known reason. The reaction may appear about 30 minutes after exposure. The blemishes may last for a few hours or a few days, but they usually go away. People who expose themselves to the sun gradually may overcome the sensitivity.
Sunburn
Sunburn and sun tanning are actually damage to the skin from the sun. Sunburns can be so severe they can result in pain, swelling and blistering. People with sunburns may even experience fever, chills and upset stomach. Immediate medical attention is required if this happens. A doctor or dermatologist can recommend medication to reduce the effects and prevent infection.
Precancerous Growths
Long-term sun exposure can lead to actinic keratoses, which are pink or red patches on the skin. They can appear flaky or scaly. They may also be hard, brown spots. A dermatologist can usually get rid of these precancerous growths by freezing them. Sometimes liquids or creams are applied if there are many growths.
Skin Cancer
Melanoma is one of the fastest growing cancers in America, according to the EPA. Sun exposure is considered the major cause of these often-fatal disorders. Other skin cancers are basal cell carcinomas and squamous cell carcinomas. They are skin cancers with a 95 percent cure rate as long as they are treated early. A doctor should look at any unusual mole or bump on the skin. Some people may think they can escape skin damage by using indoor tanning. But tanning salons use UV bulbs and pose the same risks.
