What are the effects of ultraviolet (UV) rays on the skin?

The effects of ultraviolet (UV) rays on the skin predominantly lead to premature aging, sunburn, and an increased risk of skin cancer. When skin is exposed to UV radiation, it can damage the DNA in skin cells, promoting the development of mutations that may lead to skin cancer. Additionally, UV rays break down collagen and elastin fibers, which are vital for maintaining the skin's structure and elasticity, resulting in visible signs of aging such as wrinkles and fine lines.

Sunburn is a direct response to overexposure to UV radiation, characterized by redness, pain, and sometimes blistering. This damage is not only superficial; repeated episodes of sunburn can lead to long-term consequences, including chronic skin issues and heightening the risk of developing malignant skin conditions over time.

In contrast, the other options suggest beneficial effects of UV rays, which are misleading. Increased hydration and a glow from UV exposure are generally resulting from immediate skin reactions but do not account for the damaging long-term effects. Similarly, while some UV exposure can stimulate vitamin D production, this does not translate to enhanced skin recovery or elasticity in a healthy manner, as the damage from UV radiation significantly outweighs these potential benefits.