Do you also buy sunscreen from the market or online, but get confused after seeing labels like ‘SPF 30’, ‘SPF 50’, or ‘PA+++’? Know, you are not alone. Many people buy sunscreen, but do not understand the true meaning of these labels. Both these terms are important to protect your skin from various harmful rays. In this article, we will tell you what is the difference between SPF and PA and which sunscreen will be best suited for your skin.
The full name of SPF is ‘Sun Protection Factor’. Its main purpose is to protect our skin from the sun’s UVB rays.
UVB rays are what cause skin irritation and sunburn. These rays can cause serious damage to the skin in the long run. The higher the SPF number on a sunscreen, the better protection your skin gets from UVB rays. For example, SPF 50 provides more protection than SPF 30.
Sunscreens also have a PA rating along with SPF, which protects our skin from UVA rays. UVA rays penetrate deep into the skin and cause damage, causing pigmentation, tanning, wrinkles and premature aging.
PA+ – low coverage
PA++ – medium coverage
PA+++ – high coverage
PA++++ – very high coverage
According to beauty experts, just looking at SPF is not enough when buying sunscreen. You should choose a ‘broad spectrum’ sunscreen that has both features.
Choose a sunscreen with at least SPF 30 and PA+++ protection. If you stay outside for a long time or your skin tans easily, it would be better to use a sunscreen with SPF 50 and PA++++.
In simple terms, SPF protects your skin from sunburn, while PA rating prevents early aging and tanning of the skin. A balance between these two is necessary for proper security. Next time you buy sunscreen, be sure to pay attention to these labels.
