Final answer:
Too much sunlight can accelerate skin aging, cause sunburn, and increase the risk of skin cancer, including melanoma, particularly when exposure occurs at a young age.
Step-by-step explanation:
When exposed to too much sunlight, our skin can undergo several harmful changes. UV radiation can damage collagen fibers and accelerate skin aging, leading to the formation of wrinkles. Sunburn typically results from large exposures to UV-B and UV-C rays, with repeated exposure greatly increasing the risk a person has of developing skin cancer.
It is important to note that while a tan might appear as a sign of good health, the tanning response is a defense mechanism to protect living skin cells from UV radiation. Children and teens who experience sunburn, particularly blistering burns, are at a higher risk of developing skin cancer later in life. Thus, it is crucial to wear sunscreen with a high SPF, hats, and protective clothing to guard against UV radiation.
Moreover, the prevalence of skin cancers in sun-drenched countries such as Australia underscores the significance of protecting ourselves against UV-B and UV-C rays, despite their relative scarcity at Earth's surface. The link between overexposure to sunlight at a young age and the possibility of developing melanoma later in life further stresses the need for vigilant sun protection.