What is a common effect of too much UV exposure?

Exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun or tanning devices can lead to significant health risks, particularly an increased risk of skin cancer. This is primarily due to the damaging effects of UV rays on the DNA in skin cells. Over time, excessive exposure can cause mutations that lead to skin cancers, including melanoma, basal cell carcinoma, and squamous cell carcinoma.

The skin's protective mechanisms, such as melanin production which leads to tanning, can provide some protection but are not sufficient to totally negate the harmful effects of UV exposure. The risk climbs with the intensity and duration of exposure, as well as with a person's skin type and genetic predispositions.

Other choices incorrectly suggest benefits or lesser risks that are not associated with excessive UV exposure, such as enhanced skin elasticity or decreased sensitivity, which do not occur in response to harmful UV rays. In fact, increased UV exposure typically harms skin structure and health rather than improving it.