Sunscreen is a crucial part of skincare that helps protect our skin from the harmful effects of ultraviolet (UV) rays. With increasing awareness about skin health, understanding the different types of sunscreens and how to select the right Sun Protection Factor (SPF) has become essential. While SPF indicates UVB protection, PA is a rating system that measures protection from UVA rays. This article will guide you through the basics of sunscreen, SPF selection, PA ratings (PA++++, PA+++, PA++, PA+) and UVA protection to ensure your skin is properly shielded.
What is Sunscreen?
Sunscreen is a topical product designed to shield the skin from the harmful effects of the sun’s rays, primarily ultraviolet A (UVA) and ultraviolet B (UVB) radiation. Sunscreens work by either absorbing, reflecting, or scattering UV radiation and as a saviour from UV radiation, which is known to cause sunburn, accelerate skin ageing, and increase the risk of skin cancer.
There are two main types of sunscreens:
- Chemical Sunscreens: Contain active ingredients like avobenzone, oxybenzone, or octinoxate. They absorb UV radiation and convert it into heat, which is then released from the skin.
- Physical (Mineral) Sunscreens: Contain zinc oxide or titanium dioxide. They sit on the skin’s surface and reflect UV radiation away from the skin.
Understanding SPF
SPF, or Sun Protection Factor, measures how well a sunscreen protects your skin from UVB radiation, the primary cause of sunburn. It’s important to note that SPF does not measure protection against UVA radiation, which contributes to premature ageing and skin cancer.
Here’s a simple way to understand SPF:
- SPF 15 blocks about 93% of UVB rays.
- SPF 30 blocks about 97% of UVB rays.
- SPF 50 blocks about 98% of UVB rays.
- SPF 100 blocks about 99% of UVB rays.
While higher SPF provides more protection, the difference in protection between SPF 30 and SPF 50 is minimal. To achieve optimal protection, it’s essential to apply sunscreen correctly, regardless of the SPF.
What is PA+++?
While SPF indicates UVB protection, PA is a rating system that measures protection from UVA rays, which penetrate deeper into the skin and contribute to ageing, dark spots, and skin cancer. The PA system originated in Japan and is now widely used in many Asian sunscreens.
- PA+: Some UVA protection
- PA++: Moderate UVA protection
- PA+++: High UVA protection
- PA++++: Extremely high UVA protection
If you’re concerned about skin ageing, pigmentation or have prolonged sun exposure, look for sunscreens with at least PA+++ for effective UVA defence.
How to Select the Right SPF and PA Rating
Here’s how to choose a sunscreen that fits your lifestyle and skin type:
- Fair Skin: Opt for SPF 30–50 and PA+++ or higher.
- Medium to Dark Skin: SPF 15–30 is usually sufficient, but PA+++ is still recommended to prevent ageing and hyperpigmentation.
- Daily Use: SPF 15–30 with PA++ or higher for everyday protection.
- Outdoor Activities: SPF 50+ and PA+++ or PA++++ for extended sun exposure.
Additional Considerations
- Broad-Spectrum Protection: Always choose a sunscreen labelled as “broad-spectrum.” This ensures that it protects against both UVA and UVB rays.
- Water Resistance: If you’re swimming or sweating, use water-resistant sunscreen. However, remember that no sunscreen is truly “waterproof,” so reapplication is key.
- Reapplication: Sunscreen should be reapplied every two hours or more frequently if you’re sweating or swimming, regardless of its SPF rating.
Conclusion
Sunscreen is your skin’s best friend for preventing sunburn, premature ageing and reducing the risk of skin cancer. While SPF protects against UVB, don’t overlook PA ratings—especially PA+++—to ensure strong UVA defense. Always choose a sunscreen that fits your skin type and daily activities. Remember that how you apply and reapply matters as much as what you use.
Stay protected, and let your skin thank you for it later!
