Final answer:
The likelihood of developing a sunburn or a suntan primarily depends on the melanin content in one's skin, which is dictated by skin type. Sunburns indicate skin damage and a heightened risk of skin cancer while a suntan represents the body's defense mechanism against UV exposure. Protection measures such as sunscreen are important for preventing skin damage.
Step-by-step explanation:
The lowest effective dose developing a sunburn as well as the value producing a suntan depend mostly on a person's skin type and the amount of the pigment melanin in their skin. Melanin acts as a natural sunblock, offering protection against harmful UV radiation from the sun. Light-skinned individuals typically produce less melanin and are more susceptible to sunburns, which are caused by overexposure to UV-B and UV-C rays. Dark-skinned individuals, while also at risk, have more melanin, which provides them greater protection. A tan, although often interpreted as a sign of good health, is a signal of skin damage and the body's attempt to protect deeper skin tissue from UV radiation. Tanning can lead to impermanence due to the natural shedding of melanin-filled keratinocytes in the stratum corneum and the destruction of melanosomes.
Repeated sun exposure and sunburns increase the risk of skin cancer. Prevention strategies include minimizing exposure, wearing protective clothing, and using sun-tan lotion with an appropriate SPF rating, which blocks or reduces skin penetration by UV rays, protecting against immediate skin damage and the long-term possibility of skin cancer. However, some sunlight exposure is necessary for the production of Vitamin D, signifying the need for a balance in sun exposure.