UV-B
Also known as: UVB
Description
UV-B is a spectrum of Ultra-Violet Radiation with a wavelength from 290 nm to 320 nm.
Biological Function of UV-B
Pigments
UV-B (more potently than other spectrums of UV Radiation) stimulates Melanocytes within the Epidermis of the Skin to manufacture Melanin.
Therapeutic Uses of UV-B
Immune System
Exposure of the Skin to UV-B may help to prevent Cancer - Endometrium (due to UV-B stimulating the production of Vitamin D). [1]
Skin
Exposure of afflicted areas of the Skin to UV-B may alleviate (atopic) Eczema. [2]
Exposure of afflicted areas of the Skin to UV-B may temporarily alleviate Psoriasis: [3]
UV-B has been shown to inhibit the excessive proliferation of Skin Cells that occurs in Psoriasis. Its effectiveness is described as being equal to that of PUVA therapy with fewer side effects.
UV-B may Enhance the Function of these Substances
Skin
UV-B converts the 7-Dehydrocholesterol form of Cholesterol to the Cholecalciferol (Vitamin D3) form of Vitamin D in the Epidermis of the Skin. [4]
Toxic Effects of UV-B
Eyes/Vision
Excessive exposure of the Eyes to UV-B may cause Cataracts.
Immune System
Excessive exposure of the Skin to UV-B may suppress the Immune System. [5]
Excessive exposure of the Skin to UV-B may be implicated in Skin Cancer (UV-B is believed to be the most carcinogenic of the three spectrums of Ultra-Violet Radiation): [6]
Excessive exposure of the Skin to UV-B may cause Melanoma.
Excessive exposure of the Skin to UV-B may cause Squamous Cell Carcinoma.
Metabolism
Excessive exposure of the Skin to UV-B may result in the generation of Peroxyl Free Radicals in the Skin.
Skin
Excessive exposure of the Skin to UV-B may damage Keratinocytes. [7]
Excessive exposure of the Skin to UV-B is the primary cause of Sunburn. [8]
Exposure of the Skin to UV-B is responsible for True Tanning - i.e. Tanning that persists for weeks and occurs as a result of UV-B stimulating the production of NEW Melanin.
Excessive exposure of the Skin to UV-B may be an underlying cause of Wrinkles. [9]
UV-B may Interfere with these Beneficial Substances
Carbohydrates
UV-B exposure may destroy the Hyaluronic Acid content of the Dermis. [10]
UV-B may Increase these Toxic Substances
Cytokines
UV-B exposure may increase Interleukin 10 production. [11]
UV-B exposure may increase the production of Tumor Necrosis Factor (TNF). [12]
Enzymes
UV-B exposure may increase the activity of Elastase. [13]
UV-B exposure may increase the activity of Hyaluronidase in the Dermis. [14]
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