Why SPF & PA Value Matters?

Hey there sunshine seekers! Welcome to SPF Academy, your go-to guide for all things sun protection. If you’ve ever spotted “SPF” on one label and “PA++” on another and wondered what’s up, you’re in the right place. Let’s break down the basics so you can dew right by your skin - every single day. 

What are UV Rays & How Do They Affect Your Skin? 

The sun emits two types of UV rays that affect our skin: 

• UVA (known as the Aging Rays): These penetrate deep into the skin, causing premature aging, wrinkles and hyperpigmentation. They also pass through windows and screens- so yes, you’re exposed indoors too! 

• UVB (known as the Burning Rays): These cause sunburns and DNA damage, leading to an increased risk of skin cancer. 

SPF & PA: What’s the Difference? 

• SPF is short for Sun Protection Factor, which measures how well your sunscreen shields you from the harmful UVB burning rays. Higher SPF = more UVB protection. 

• PA indicates the UVA protection, so protecting against rays that age and damage skin at a deeper level. The more plus signs (PA+, PA++, etc), the stronger the defense. 

Dew It Pro Tip: Look for “Broad Spectrum” or PA rating to cover both UVA and UVB- so you’re guarding against burns and wrinkles!  

Why SPF is Important

1. Protection Against UV Rays

Using broad-spectrum sunscreen with both SPF and PA ensures you’re defending against both UVA and UVB. Think of it like locking all your doors and windows- when it comes to sun safety, you want to cover every entry point. 

2. Shield Your Skin from Sunburn 

Sunburn isn’t just about temporary redness and discomfort, it can also raise your long-term risk of skin cancer. Not to worry though because it has been found that consistent sunscreen use significantly reduces the severity and frequency of sunburn, helping keep your skin healthier. 

3. Preventing Skin Cancer

Studies show that UV exposure can trigger genetic changes and mutations, leading to melanoma and other skin cancers. But the good news is that research also finds that consistent sunscreen use helps reduce these mutations and lower your overall risk. 

4. Prevent Early Skin Aging 

Up to 80% of visible skin aging- wrinkles, sagging, and age spots- stems from UV exposure. While we naturally lose collagen and elastin over time, UV rays speed up the process, making lines appear faster and skin lose firmness. The simplest fix? A daily dose of broad-spectrum SPF to slow down photoaging and keep your complexion smooth and radiant. 

5. Boost Your Skincare Routine 

You don’t need to be a skincare expert and understand ingredients like retinol or hyaluronic acid, but neglecting sunscreen from your daily routine will make any form of skincare you do less effective. To cover your bases (literally), a quick spray of sunscreen on your face after your routine with cleansers, toners, and serums will keep your skin looking radiant and healthy.

Dew It’s Final Note

Incorporating SPF (and a solid PA rating) into your routine is a simple habit that pays off big time- from reducing the risk of skin care to keeping premature aging at bay. So, spray on that broad-spectrum sunscreen, rock a stylish cap, and head out knowing you’re doing right by your skin! 

 

Recommended For You:

Face Sun Mist 

Sunscreen Mist 

Sun Stick

Sources: 

American Academy of Dermatology Association (2025). Sunscreen FAQs. [online] Aad.org. Available at: https://www.aad.org/media/stats-sunscreen#:#.

Guo, L., Hsu, C. and Lio, P. (2024). Sunscreens: What Might the Future Hold? Journal of Integrative Dermatology. [online] doi:https://doi.org/10.1016/j.taap.2012.06.008;citation_issn=0041-008X;citation_journal_abbrev.

Mahoney dermatology specialists (2021). 5 Important Reasons to Wear Sunscreen Daily. [online] Mahoney Dermatology. Available at: https://mahoneydermatology.com/5-important-reasons-to-wear-sunscreen-daily/.

Paul, S.P. (2019). Ensuring the Safety of Sunscreens, and Their Efficacy in Preventing Skin Cancers: Challenges and Controversies for Clinicians, Formulators, and Regulators. Frontiers in Medicine, [online] 6(195). doi:https://doi.org/10.3389/fmed.2019.00195.

Shanbhag, S., Nayak, A., Narayan, R. and Nayak, U. (2019). Anti-aging and Sunscreens: Paradigm Shift in Cosmetics. Adv Pharm Bull, 2019(3), pp.348–359. doi:https://doi.org/10.15171/apb.2019.042.

Published on 26 February 2025.