What Does the PA+ Sunscreen Symbol Mean and Why It Matters?
When it comes to sun protection, most people focus on SPF—but that’s only half the story. While SPF measures protection against UVB rays (the ones that cause sunburn), it doesn’t tell you anything about UVA rays, which penetrate deeper into the skin and are responsible for premature ageing and long-term damage. That’s where the PA rating comes in.
What is the PA Rating?
The PA rating system was developed in Japan and is now widely used to show how well sunscreen protects against UVA rays. It’s based on the Persistent Pigment Darkening (PPD) test, which measures how much UVA exposure it takes to cause skin darkening.
The PA rating is shown as PA+ to PA++++, with more plus signs meaning stronger protection:
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PA+ = Some UVA protection
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PA++ = Moderate UVA protection
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PA+++ = High UVA protection
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PA++++ = Extremely high UVA protection
Why Does the PA Rating Matter?
UVA rays are the silent skin agers. Unlike UVB rays, which cause visible burns, UVA rays penetrate deep into the skin, breaking down collagen and elastin, leading to wrinkles, fine lines, and pigmentation. Even worse, they play a big role in the development of skin cancer. Since UVA rays are around all year—even on cloudy days and indoors by windows—daily protection is essential.
PA Ratings vs. Broad-Spectrum Protection
When choosing a sunscreen, look for one that offers broad-spectrum protection, meaning it shields against both UVA and UVB rays. In the UK and Europe, broad-spectrum sunscreens are tested for UVA protection using the UVA Seal of Approval, which guarantees a UVA protection factor (UVA-PF) of at least one-third of the SPF rating.
How to Choose the Right Sunscreen
For everyday wear, especially if you spend a lot of time outdoors, wear sunscreen with SPF 30-50 and a PA+++ or PA++++ rating. Mineral sunscreens, like our Baie Soleil Organic Sunscreen SPF 50, provide broad-spectrum protection using Non-Nano Zinc Oxide. This naturally derived mineral sits on the skin’s surface to block UVA and UVB rays without irritation.
Final Thoughts
Understanding the PA rating system helps you make better choices when it comes to sun care. Whether you're spending the day outside or just sitting by a window, UVA protection is just as important as UVB protection. By picking a high-quality, broad-spectrum sunscreen, you’re not just preventing sunburn—you’re actively defending your skin against premature ageing and long-term damage.
Want to protect your skin the natural way? Discover our award-winning, plant-powered suncare range at Baie Botanique today!
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