Definition:
The sun gives off energy that we call "ultraviolet radiation," because it has a shorter wavelength than visible blue or violet light. UV radiation is known to cause skin cancer and photoaging.
UV Radiation
By Heather Brannon, MD, About.com
Updated: July 03, 2008
About.com Health's Disease and Condition content is reviewed by the Medical Review Board
Melanoma Information
Other Skin Cancers
Types of Skin Cancer VideoBasal Cell CarcinomaSquamous Cell Carcinoma
More Information about Skin Damage
Effects of Sun on the SkinWhat Causes WrinklesPreventing Wrinkles with Sunscreen
Explore Dermatology
Must Reads
About.com Special Features
Learn how you can reduce your your numbers with these nutrition and exercise tips. More >
Keep yourself, and your family, happy and healthy this fall with these tips. More >
Also from About.com:
©2009 About.com, a part of The New York Times Company.
All rights reserved.