The effects of sunlight on the skin

Ultraviolet radiation (UVR) within sunlight is absorbed by the skin, causing molecular damage. While being an important environmental hazard, it is essential for vitamin D production, promoting human health. A major casualty of UVR is suppression of the immune system. This contributes to reduced control of skin cancer and perhaps infections, but can be used to treat several immune-based skin conditions, and provides novel avenues for drug-based therapies.

Section editor:Michael Roberts – School of Medicine, University of Queensland, Australia