What are the different types of UV radiation, and how does sunscreen shield against each
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The skin is the largest organ of the body and serves as a protective barrier against various environmental factors (Tanner, 2006). One of these factors is ultraviolet radiation, which is emitted by the sun and can be harmful to the skin (Hirao, 2017). UV radiation is categorized into three types: UVA, UVB, and UVC (Dunaway et al., 2018).UVA rays have a longer wavelength and can penetrate deep into the skin, causing damage to collagen and elastin fibres.UVB rays have a shorter wavelength and primarily affect the outer layers of the skin, causing sunburn and contributing to the development of skin cancer. Sunscreen shields against UVA and UVB rays by using a combination of physical and chemical filters. Physical filters in sunscreen, such as zinc oxide and titanium dioxide, act as a barrier on the skin's surface to reflect and scatter UV rays. Chemical filters in sunscreen, such as avobenzone and octinoxate, work by absorbing UV rays and converting them into heat. Therefore, sunscreen provides protection against both UVA and UVB rays by either physically blocking or chemically absorbing the radiation before it can penetrate and damage the skin.
UVC radiation, on the other hand, has the shortest wavelength and is the most harmful type of UV radiation. However, it is largely absorbed by the ozone layer and does not reach the Earth's surface in significant amounts. Nonetheless, certain professions, such as healthcare and laboratory settings, require protection against UVC radiation due to artificial sources like germicidal lamps. To shield against UVC radiation, specialized protective equipment such as UVC-blocking goggles, face shields, and clothing made from UVC-resistant materials is utilized. These items are designed to block and absorb UVC radiation to prevent it from reaching and damaging the skin or eyes. For individuals in occupations with UVC exposure, proper protective gear is essential to minimize the risks associated with this type of UV radiation.