How UV Exposure Affects Health and What Dermatologists Recommend

Why it matters locally: Given Maryland's coastal areas and recreational opportunities, state health officials frequently issue guidance on sun protection, aligning with dermatological recommendations to mitigate risks for residents enjoying outdoor activities.

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Ultraviolet radiation from the sun serves essential biological functions for humans. The body produces vitamin D when skin absorbs UV rays, supporting bone health and immune function. Despite these benefits, medical professionals caution that excessive UV exposure carries significant health risks. Dermatologists distinguish between two types of ultraviolet rays that reach Earth's surface: UVA and UVB. Both penetrate skin and contribute to cellular damage. Extended or intense exposure to either type increases the likelihood of melanoma, basal cell carcinoma, and squamous cell carcinoma. The damage accumulates over time, with years of sun exposure elevating risk even if an individual never experiences a severe sunburn. Health organizations measure UV intensity using the UV Index, a scale that ranges from 0 to 11 or higher. Higher numbers indicate stronger radiation and greater potential for skin damage in shorter exposure periods. The index varies by latitude, season, time of day, and cloud cover. People can check daily UV forecasts through weather services and skin cancer prevention websites. Dermatologists recommend several protective measures to reduce UV exposure while maintaining adequate sun exposure for vitamin D synthesis. Applying broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher blocks most UVA and UVB rays. Sunscreen requires reapplication every two hours, or more frequently after swimming or sweating. Covering skin with clothing, hats, and sunglasses reduces direct UV exposure. Long-sleeved shirts and pants limit the surface area available for radiation to penetrate. Wide-brimmed hats shade the face, ears, and neck. Sunglasses that block 99 to 100 percent of UVA and UVB rays protect the eyes and surrounding skin. Timing outdoor activities to avoid peak UV hours offers another protective strategy. UV intensity peaks between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. in most locations. Shifting outdoor exercise or recreation to early morning or late afternoon reduces exposure during these hours. Certain medications and skin conditions increase photosensitivity, making individuals more vulnerable to UV damage. People taking medications for conditions like arthritis, antibiotics, or psychiatric disorders should consult healthcare providers about sun sensitivity. Those with a family history of skin cancer or a personal history of severe sunburns face elevated risk and may benefit from more aggressive protective measures. Medical experts stress that no amount of UV exposure is risk-free, but moderate sun exposure combined with protective measures allows people to maintain necessary vitamin D levels while minimizing cancer risk. Individuals concerned about their personal UV exposure or skin cancer risk should discuss options with a dermatologist.