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What effects can prolonged exposure to UVA rays have on the skin?

  1. They boost collagen production

  2. They can destroy proteins like collagen and elastin

  3. They increase melanin levels

  4. They promote healthy skin renewal

The correct answer is: They can destroy proteins like collagen and elastin

Prolonged exposure to UVA rays can indeed have detrimental effects on the skin, primarily by destroying essential proteins such as collagen and elastin. These proteins are crucial for maintaining the skin's structure, firmness, and elasticity. When UVA rays penetrate deeply into the skin, they can induce oxidative stress, leading to the breakdown of these proteins, which contributes to premature skin aging, wrinkles, and sagging. Understanding this process highlights the importance of sun protection measures, as the damage from UVA rays occurs regardless of visible sun exposure, often making it more insidious. While the other options may suggest positive or neutral effects on the skin, they do not accurately represent the harmful impacts that UVA radiation can have over time.