What do SPF and PA mean in cosmetics?

Sun protection is very important, not only in summer by the sea, but also, for example, when visiting a sunbed. We’ll tell you what the abbreviations on sunscreen packaging mean, what to watch out for when choosing a sunscreen and how to use creams correctly.

What is SPF?

SPF (sun protection factor) is a protection factor against UVB radiation. With this abbreviation, there is always a number stated, which tells you what percentage of ultraviolet radiation (UVB) the sunscreen can filter out. The higher the number, the more ultraviolet radiation is blocked.

Simply put, SPF is basically the length of time you can stay in the sun before your skin burns. Let’s say that without using sunscreen you burn in 10 minutes; when using a product with SPF 15, this time is extended 15x. So you can stay in the sun for 150 minutes without burning.

When choosing an SPF value, it is important to take into account your skin phototype, which indicates how easily your skin burns and tans. There are six skin phototypes:

1. Phototype I: Very fair skin, red or blonde hair, blue eyes. Burns easily and hardly tans at all. Recommended SPF: 30 to 50+.
2. Phototype II: Fair skin, blonde or light brown hair, blue or green eyes. Burns easily and tans only slightly. Recommended SPF: 30 to 50.
3. Phototype III: Medium fair skin, darker blonde or brown hair, various eye colours. Burns sometimes and tans gradually. Recommended SPF: 20 to 30.
4. Phototype IV: Medium dark skin, brown hair and eyes. Burns rarely and tans easily. Recommended SPF: 15-20.
5. Phototype V: Darker skin with brown pigmentation. Burns very rarely and tans quickly to dark brown. Recommended SPF: 15.
6. Phototype VI: Dark skin with black pigmentation (for example, African Americans). Burns extremely rarely and tans very quickly to dark brown or black. Recommended SPF: 10-15.

These values are only indicative and it is important to adapt sun protection to individual needs, the intensity of sunlight and the length of time spent in the sun. It is always better to use a higher SPF if you are unsure what phototype you have or if you plan to be in the sun for a longer time.

What is PA?

PA (Protection Grade of UVA) is a designation used on sunscreens and other sun protection products that relates to the level of protection against UVA radiation. UVA radiation penetrates deeper into the skin and can cause premature ageing, pigmentation and sometimes skin cancer. PA is rated using plus (+) symbols, which indicate different levels of protection:

- PA+ : Low level of protection against UVA radiation
- PA++: Medium level of protection against UVA radiation
- PA+++: High level of protection against UVA radiation
- PA++++: The highest level of protection against UVA radiation

The PA system is often seen together with SPF (Sun Protection Factor). It is important to use a sunscreen with sufficient protection against both types of UV radiation - both UVA and UVB - for the best overall skin protection.

Tip for you: If you are choosing a sunscreen, go for one that protects against both types of radiation. 

Do the values of used cosmetics with sun protection add up?

No, SPF values do not add up. If you use a cream with a value of 20 and a sunscreen with a value of 30, the overall sun protection will correspond to the higher value, i.e. 30. It is important to realise that combining different products with sun protection does not increase the overall protection factor. Instead, it is important to apply sunscreen with an adequate SPF correctly and often enough according to your phototype and the intensity of sunlight.

Correct use of sunscreens

• Use sunscreens daily, not only if you are heading to the water.
• You can also use a face cream, BB cream or other cosmetics with sun protection.
• Apply sunscreens thoroughly to all parts of the body.
• If you are swimming, make sure the products you use are water-resistant. However, after prolonged swimming it is advisable to reapply the cream.
• Apply sunscreens with a chemical SPF filter at least 20 minutes before you go out into the sun. You do not need to apply creams with a mineral filter in advance. They work immediately, creating a protective barrier on the skin.
• Ideally, reapply the cream every 2 - 3 hours.

A few tips to finish

Finally, it is good to follow additional measures for sun protection, such as wearing wide-brimmed hats, protective glasses and clothing with UV filtration, avoiding the sun during the most intense radiation (usually between 10:00 and 16:00) and seeking shade when possible. Combined with a sunscreen with an adequate SPF, you can keep your skin healthy and protected from the harmful effects of sunlight.