UV Effects Ultraviolet Radiation . . . . Each of these radiation types influence our lives in various ways, but ultraviolet, whose wavelengths are just shorter than the visible portion of the electromagnetic spectrum, influences us partially in the form of skin burning as well as ocular damage. It is possible to be in sun shade and still receive a severe burn due to reflection of ultraviolet radiation. Much of the ultraviolet radiation is absorbed and scattered by water, which is why it is possible to receive a sunburn even when swimming just under the surface of the water. A higher level of ultraviolet radiation is normally present at higher altitudes due to less atmospheric blockage.
Skiers are aware of the phenomenon of sunburn occurring under the ears, nose and chin.
UVA radiation is 1,000-fold less effective than UVB in producing skin redness. The extent of an individual's exposure, however, varies widely depending on a multiplicity of factors such as clothing, occupation, lifestyle, age, and geographic factors such as altitude and latitude. There is a greater ultraviolet radiation exposure with decreasing latitude. Residing at higher altitudes results in a greater ultraviolet radiation exposure, such that for every 1,000 feet above sea level, there is a compounded 4 percent increase in ultraviolet radiation exposure. However, it produces a variety of pathologic effects, including sunburn, pigmentary change, immunologic alterations, and neoplasia.