Tanning and sunburn are different skin responses to UV radiation.
Tanning involves melanin production, darkening the skin to protect against UV rays.
Melanocytes produce melanin, absorbing UV rays to prevent DNA damage in skin cells.
Sunburn is skin damage caused by excessive UV radiation, leading to redness and pain.
UV radiation damages skin cell DNA, triggering inflammation and increased blood flow.
Tanning protects with melanin; sunburn indicates immediate skin cell damage.
Tanning from moderate exposure; sunburn from intense, excessive exposure, often at peak hours.
Sunburn can lead to long-term skin damage, aging, and increased skin cancer risk.