What skin condition may result from excessive sun exposure?

Actinic keratosis is a skin condition that results from prolonged and excessive exposure to ultraviolet (UV) rays from the sun. This condition is characterized by rough, scaly patches on the skin, commonly found on sun-exposed areas such as the face, ears, neck, and hands. The UV radiation leads to changes in the skin cells, causing them to hyper-proliferate, which can increase the risk of developing skin cancers.

In contrast, while melasma can be influenced by sun exposure, it is primarily associated with hormonal changes and is not a direct result of sun damage like actinic keratosis. Acne is mainly related to hormonal fluctuations, bacteria, and clogged pores, and psoriasis is an autoimmune condition that isn’t caused by sun exposure. Understanding this distinction helps clarify why actinic keratosis is the condition directly tied to excessive sunlight exposure.