Alabama Cosmetology Licensing Practice Exam

How does UV exposure affect skin?

1. It can cause excessive dryness

2. It helps in the production of Vitamin D

3. It can cause premature aging and increase the risk of skin cancer

4. It enhances skin elasticity

The correct answer is: It can cause premature aging and increase the risk of skin cancer

UV exposure has significant effects on the skin, most notably causing premature aging and increasing the risk of skin cancer. When the skin is exposed to ultraviolet rays, it can lead to the breakdown of collagen and elastin, key proteins that maintain skin structure and firmness. This breakdown results in signs of aging such as wrinkles, fine lines, and loss of elasticity over time, often referred to as photoaging. Furthermore, UV radiation can damage the DNA in skin cells. This damage can accumulate over time, leading to mutations and potentially resulting in skin cancers, such as melanoma and basal cell carcinoma. Hence, while some UV exposure has beneficial effects, like aiding in Vitamin D production, the harmful consequences of excessive or unprotected UV exposure are serious and well-documented, highlighting why this answer is particularly important for understanding the implications of UV exposure on skin health.