What skin cancer is commonly linked to excessive UV exposure?

Basal cell carcinoma is the most common type of skin cancer associated with excessive ultraviolet (UV) exposure. This form of cancer typically arises in areas of the skin that are most frequently exposed to the sun, such as the face, ears, neck, and scalp. Basal cell carcinoma occurs when the skin cells undergo mutations due to UV radiation, which leads to uncontrolled growth.

Melanoma, while also linked to UV exposure, is not the most common type of skin cancer and is generally more aggressive than basal cell carcinoma. Dermatitis refers to inflammation of the skin and is not a type of skin cancer, and hypertrichosis involves excessive hair growth, which is unrelated to skin cancer. Thus, basal cell carcinoma is the primary concern when discussing skin cancer linked specifically to UV exposure.