PA in Sunscreen - What it Means & Why It Matters

Investing in sunscreen is one thing, but using the right sunscreen for your skin can make all the difference. Sunscreens are created using new-age sun filters, active skin ingredients, and protection grades that indicate the abilities of a sunscreen to block harmful UV rays from penetrating the deepest layers of your skin.

Sunscreens with appropriate SPF and PA levels are crucial to prevent sunburn, premature ageing, hyperpigmentation, and the possibility of developing extreme skin conditions. Without a doubt, SPF and PA levels are invaluable components of your daily suncare routine that shouldn't be compromised. So, let's empower your knowledge of PA levels present in sunscreen and why you should always be aware of the ingredients you apply to your face.

What is PA in Sunscreen?

Sun-protecting grades, popularly known as PA levels, are the ratings present in most types of sunscreens. PA stands for Protection Grade of UVA rays. It is important to note that PA sunscreens offer protection against UVA rays and not against UVB rays. A PA rating is represented by the + sign or symbol. The higher the number of + the greater protection offered against the UVA rays.

In other words, the PA factor in a sunscreen demonstrates the ability of a sunscreen to block UVA rays from entering the layers of the skin. The PA index method was originally developed in Japan, which was adapted from the Persistent Pigment Darkening (PPD) test. The test is performed using UVA radiation to cause tanning or persistent darkening on the skin. The test helps determine how long it takes for the skin to start experiencing tanning with and without sunscreen.

Therefore, a sunscreen with a higher level of PA ratings tends to offer greater protection and is considered to be a potent suncare product for the skin.

What are the Different PA Levels in Sunscreen?

Having understood PA meaning in Sunscreen, let us now understand the role of different PA levels in sunscreen. PPD test results are grouped into different PA measurements to help understand what PA levels offer optimum sun protection:

1. PA+ : Sunscreen with this PA level, offers the lowest UVA protection with a score or PA measurement between 2 and 4.

2. PA++ : Sunscreen with PA levels ++ offers moderate UVA protection to the skin. They have a PA score or measurement between 4 and 8.

3. PA+++ :This PA level is considered good, offering a high level of UVA protection. Sunscreen with PA+++ has a score between 8 and 16.

4. PA++++ : Any sunscreen with PA levels ++++, offers the highest level of UVA protection with a score of more than 16.

Theoretically, UVA rays are considered the sun's silent killers. When exposed to UVA rays, your skin might undergo several changes, experiencing different forms of skin damage than what UVB rays do. Hence, along with high SPF levels, your sunscreen should also contain high PA levels to offer the highest protection from sun and skin tanning issues.

Importance of PA Rating in Sunscreen

1.Prevents premature ageing: UVA rays play a major role in causing premature ageing of the skin, leading to skin problems such as fine lines, wrinkles, age spots, sagging, and more. Sunscreens with high PA levels can help reverse the signs of premature ageing.

2. Reduced Sun tanning: UVA rays contribute heavily to skin tanning issues. Applying a generous amount of PA++++ sunscreen is the key to reducing unwanted tanning on your skin.

3. Improved skin complexion: With the optimum protection of PA++++, you can create an armour shield against the sun and avoid issues like uneven skin tone and more.

4.Lower risk of skin cancer: A majority of skin cancer cases happen due to excessive exposure to the sun. Layering your skin with a potent sunscreen like POND'S Sun Miracle SPF 55 PA+++ Light Sunscreen with Niacinamide can contribute to achieving radiant, glowing, and flawless skin tone, and reduce the chances of skin cancer.

How to Choose the Right PA in Sunscreen?

We hope by now, you have an in-depth knowledge or understanding of the topics related to PA++++ meaning or sunscreen PA meaning. When it comes to choosing the right PA in sunscreen, one should always opt for sunscreens with the highest PA levels, precisely a PA index of 3+ or higher. Additionally, you should also look for sunscreens that suit best to your skin type.

For oily skin types, a gel-based sunscreen works absolutely fine, whereas, for normal to dry skin, a lightweight and cream-based sunscreen is the most suitable option.

To reap the maximum benefits of sunscreen, you should be consistent with your sun care routine. Applying two strips of POND'S Sun Miracle sunscreen every day on your face can help achieve glowing, healthy, and radiant skin that feels confident to walk out in the sun! So say goodbye to sun-damaged skin, and prioritise the well-being of your overall skin health with SPF and PA++++ sunscreens.

FAQs

What is the full form of PA in sunscreen?

The full form of PA in sunscreen stands for Protection Grade of UVA. The PA sunscreen definition indicates the ability of a sunscreen to block harmful UVA rays from entering the layers of the skin.

How much PA is good in sunscreen?

Ideally, sunscreen with a PA index of 3+ or higher is considered extremely good in a sunscreen. Check out the incredible range of POND'S Sun Miracle sunscreen range to find the perfect sunscreen for your skin type.

Which is better: PA +++ or PA++++?

Comparatively, a sunscreen with PA++++ offers greater protection and care than a sunscreen with PA+++ or lower levels of PA.