What types of rays are responsible for UV exposure that can affect the skin?

Ultraviolet (UV) rays, which are part of the electromagnetic spectrum, can significantly affect the skin in various ways, including contributing to skin aging, sunburn, and increasing the risk of skin cancer. The types of UV rays that are particularly important in this context are UVA and UVB.

UVA rays penetrate deeply into the skin and are primarily associated with skin aging and the formation of wrinkles. They can also contribute to some skin cancers. These rays are present year-round, regardless of the season or weather conditions, and can penetrate clouds and glass.

UVB rays, although less prevalent than UVA, play a crucial role in causing sunburn and are strongly linked to the development of skin cancer. They are most intense during the summer months and are the primary cause of the skin's inflammatory response to sun exposure.

While UVC rays can also affect the skin, they are mostly absorbed by the ozone layer and do not typically reach the Earth's surface, making their impact negligible in everyday UV exposure scenarios.

Therefore, both UVA and UVB rays are responsible for UV exposure that can adversely affect the skin, which is why the correct answer encompasses both these types of rays.