Sunlight, adverse effects of

Problems resulting from overexposure to sunlight. Fair-skinned people are more susceptible. Short-term overexposure causes sunburn and, in intense heat, can result in heat exhaustion or heatstroke. Repeated overexposure over a long period can cause premature aging of the skin and solar keratoses. It increases the risk of skin cancer. Protection of the skin with sunscreens helps to prevent sun damage. Photosensitivity is an abnormal sensitivity to sunlight, resulting in a rash. Exposure to sunlight can affect the eyes, causing irritation of the conjunctiva, actinic keratopathy, or pterygium. Good sunglasses help to prevent eye problems.