The most harmful UV radiation is UVC, but it is completely filtered by the Earth's atmosphere and does not reach the surface. However, UVA and UVB radiation can reach the Earth's surface and are harmful. Both UVA and UVB rays can damage the DNA in skin cells, leading to skin cancer and premature aging. UVA penetrates deep into the skin and can cause wrinkles, while UVB mainly affects the outer layers of the skin and causes sunburn.
Here's a breakdown of the different types of UV radiation and their effects:
- UVC: The most damaging type of UV radiation, but it is filtered by the atmosphere.
- UVB: Can penetrate the outer layers of the skin, causing sunburn and contributing to skin cancer.
- UVA: Can penetrate deeper into the skin, causing wrinkles and other signs of aging. It can also contribute to skin cancer.
While UVC is the most dangerous type of UV radiation, it doesn't reach the Earth's surface. Therefore, UVA and UVB are the harmful types of UV radiation we need to protect ourselves from.
