UV-A gives tan

Q.  Actual tan on skin is caused by
- Published on 25 May 16

a. UVB
b. UVA
c. UVC
d. Both a nor b

ANSWER: UVA
 
  • UV-A radiation (315 nm to 400 nm) oxidises existing melanin from the melanocytes and reorganises it, causing the actual tan in the skin.
  • Tan due to UV-A is immediate and it cannot give long-term protection unlike UV-B.
  • UV-A is not blocked properly by sunscreens but blocked to some degree by clothing. Excessive exposure to UV-A can cause DNA damage and also cancer.
  • UV-B ranges from 280 nm to 315 nm. It can cause direct DNA damage and actual melanogenesis which results in delayed tanning.

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