The adverse effects of the sun on the skin : a review

Abstract

Solar radiation causes a variety of biologic effects in the skin which are predominantly harmful. The only recognised beneficial effect is that of endogenous photosynthesis of vitamin D from its precursors in the skin, the importance of which is greatly diminished by a well balanced diet. Acute excessive exposure to ultraviolet radiation (UVR) causes sunburn, whereas chronic overexposure is responsible for the process of photo ageing and skin cancer. This sun related degenerative process and neoplastic transformation may be effectively minimised by an increased public awareness of the harmful effect of the sun.