10 Questions
What percentage of UV radiation reaching the Earth's surface is composed of UVA?
95%
Which type of UV rays penetrate deeper into the skin, down to the dermis?
UVA
What does the term 'broad-spectrum protection' refer to?
Protection against both UVA and UVB rays
What is SPF a measure of?
The amount of time it takes for UV rays to redden protected skin compared to unprotected skin
Why are sunscreens considered OTC drugs in the US?
Because they help prevent skin conditions
What is a common quality-related issue of sunscreens and after-sun products?
Valve clogging
What is a parameter commonly tested by cosmetic companies to evaluate sunscreen quality?
Preservative efficacy
What is a performance parameter commonly tested by cosmetic companies to evaluate sunscreens?
SPF value
Why are after-sun products considered cosmetics in the US?
Because they do not help prevent skin conditions
What is a characteristic commonly tested for aerosol sunscreens?
Actuation force
Study Notes
UV Radiation and Health
- UV radiation represents 5% of the total solar radiation reaching the Earth's surface
- 95% of UV radiation reaching the Earth's surface is UVA, with a small 5% UVB component
- UVC radiation is blocked out by the ozone layer, while UVB radiation is mainly absorbed by the atmosphere
Effects of UV Radiation on Skin
- UVB radiation is the major cause of sunburn, which is acute skin damage perceived as redness
- UVB radiation is a leading factor in the development of skin cancer
- UVA radiation penetrates deeper into the skin, down to the dermis
- UV radiation can be divided into three categories based on wavelength, with shorter wavelengths being more harmful but less able to penetrate the skin
Sunscreens and After-Sun Products
- SPF is a measure that indicates how long it takes for UV rays to redden protected skin compared to unprotected skin
- Broad-spectrum protection refers to protection against both UVA and UVB rays
- Sunscreens are considered OTC drugs in the US, while after-sun products are considered cosmetics
- Quality-related issues of sunscreens and after-sun products include valve clogging, separation of emulsions, microbiological contamination, clumping, and rancidification
- Parameters commonly tested by cosmetic companies to evaluate the quality of their sunscreens include spray characteristics, aerosol can leakage, and actuation force
Performance of Sunscreens
- The most frequently tested parameters referring to the performance of sunscreens include the SPF value, water resistance, and broad-spectrum protection
This quiz covers the effects of ultraviolet radiation on human health, including the risks of skin cancer and other health problems. It also discusses ways to reduce the risk of skin damage from UV radiation. Test your knowledge of UV radiation and skin health.
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