HISTOLOGICAL IMPACTS OF ULTRAVIOLET RADIATION ON HUMAN SKIN: A MINI-REVIEW

Abstract

Introduction: Ultraviolet (UV) radiation is one of the main extrinsic factors involved in photoaging and the development of histological skin changes. Chronic exposure to UVA and UVB radiation is associated with direct DNA damage, oxidative stress, collagen and elastin degradation, and local immunosuppression, processes that favor the development of precancerous lesions and skin cancer. Objectives: To critically review the main histological changes induced by ultraviolet radiation in human skin, considering differences between skin phototypes and their relationship with photoaging. Methodology: This is a mini-literature review conducted in the PubMed, SciELO, and Scopus databases, using the descriptors 'ultraviolet radiation,' 'photoaging,' 'human skin,' 'histological changes,' and 'skin phototypes.' Articles published between 2020 and 2025, of an experimental or reviewal nature, were included. Duplicate studies, those not directly related to the topic, or those published before the defined period were excluded.

DOI: https://doi.org/10.56238/sevened2025.036-098