Does ultraviolet light or visible light cause sunburn?

Ultraviolet (UV) light, not visible light, is responsible for causing sunburn. UV radiation, particularly UVA and UVB rays, damages the skin's DNA and triggers an inflammatory response, leading to the characteristic redness and pain of sunburn. Visible light does not have the same harmful effects on the skin, although it can contribute to other skin issues over time. To prevent sunburn, it is essential to use sunscreen that protects against UV radiation.