Question

why does prolonged exposure to UV light from the sun or tanning beds increase the risk of getting skin cancer

Answer 1

Tanning beds use UVA light, the concentration of UVA rays from tanning beds is greater than from the Sun. therefore, UVA light is dangerous because it penetrates multiple layers of the skin, some tanning beds also emit UVB light. The exposure to UV light in tanning beds can age skin and greatly increase the risk of skin cancer.

Answer 2

In short, because the UV rays damage skin cells, which increases the risk of a mutation possibly leading to skin cancer.

Hope this helps.