MODEL RELEASED. Sun protection. Eighty year old woman's hand with sun lotion. Sun lotion protects the skin by absorbing harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays. Most sun lotions contain a compound called para- aminobenzoic acid (PABA). Other sunscreens use compounds such as titanium dioxide and work by reflecting the sun's rays. Overexposure to sun UV rays can cause premature ageing and may also increase the risk of skin cancer. The skin on this woman's hand shows signs of sun damage due to exposure to UV rays such as wrinkles and liver spots.