What skin disorder results from chronic exposure to UV rays leading to premature aging?

Photoaging is the correct term for skin changes that arise from chronic exposure to ultraviolet (UV) rays. This condition encompasses a range of effects on the skin, including wrinkles, fine lines, loss of elasticity, and pigmentation changes such as age spots. UV rays accelerate the breakdown of collagen and elastin fibers in the skin, which are crucial for maintaining skin's structure and firmness. Over time, the cumulative damage from sun exposure leads to the visible signs of aging often associated with photoaging.

In contrast, psoriasis is an autoimmune condition that causes rapid skin cell turnover and results in thick, red, scaly patches on the skin. Eczema refers to a group of conditions that cause the skin to become inflamed or irritated, typically characterized by red, itchy patches. Melasma is a skin condition that leads to darker, discolored patches, often influenced by hormonal changes, rather than by UV exposure. Each of these conditions has distinct causes and characteristics, making photoaging the specific disorder related to chronic UV exposure and its aging effects on the skin.