Chances are, you’ve spotted the SPF acronym on countless sunblock containers or makeup products and wondered what it stands for!

With summers bringing intense dry and hot weather, skin protection is more important than ever. As the sun gets stronger, daily skincare becomes vital. Your skin, being the largest barrier against environmental stressors, needs proper care to stay healthy and glowing. Regular exposure to harmful UV rays can cause a range of skin issues, from ageing signs like wrinkles and sunspots, to serious conditions like skin cancer. Remember, the damage from the sun builds up over time, leading to early ageing.

This detailed guide covers all you need to know about sunscreens and SPF ratings used in sunscreens. So let’s jump right in!

What Is A Sunscreen?
Sunscreen is the cornerstone of summer skincare, providing a barrier that reflects or absorbs UV rays to protect your skin. It’s essential for maintaining healthy, youthful, and vibrant skin. Plus, it helps prevent collagen damage, reduces tanning, and speeds up the fading of dark spots. The key difference between types of sunscreens is how they block rays. Physical (mineral) sunscreens sit on the surface of your skin and act as a shield, while chemical sunscreens sink into your skin and act more like a sponge.

What is SPF or Sun Protection Factor?

SPF (Sun Protection Factor) is an indicator of how well a sunscreen can protect against UV rays. You’ll find products with SPF numbers like 15, 30 or 50 etc., each offering a different level of protection:

• SPF 15 - 93.3% protection from UV absorption
• SPF 30 - 96.7% protection from UV absorption 
• SPF 45 - 97.8% protection from UV absorption 
• SPF 50 - 98% protection from UV absorption
• SPF 60 - Filters out almost 98% of all UV rays 
• SPF 70 - 99% protection from UV absorption
• SPF 100 offers 99.9% protection from UV as it reaches the skin, however, there are a few cons of this as well.

Essentially, an SPF 50 sunscreen means your skin is 50 times less likely to burn than if you weren’t wearing any. An SPF 70 PA++++ Rating provides broad-spectrum protection against harmful UVA and UVB rays, ensuring your skin stays shielded from sun damage all day long.

So if SPF measures a product's ability to block UV rays, what does PA++++ mean?

PA stands for Protection Grade of UV, which rates a sunscreen’s ability to block UV rays. You’ll see PA ratings on sunscreens and other skincare products.

Originating from Japan, the PA system is based on the Persistent Pigment Darkening (PPD) method, which measures how long it takes for skin to tan under UV exposure. A PPD rating of 10 implies you can be exposed to 10 times more UV before tanning. However, since PPD isn’t precisely measurable and lacks a global standard, countries convert PPD into their own rating scales.

In Japan, for example, PPD scores translate to PA ratings as follows:

• PPD 2-4 - PA+
• PPD 4-8 - PA++
• PPD 8-16 - PA+++
• PPD 16 or more - PA++++

PA+ indicates some UV protection, with more plusses meaning stronger protection. PA++++ being the highest level of UV protection. 

How Should One Apply A Sunscreen?

Here’s how to seamlessly integrate sunscreen into your skincare routine, tailored to your skin type and needs:

1. Apply Generously - Use at least 1/4 tsp for your face and neck. If you are unsure of the quantity, you can follow the ‘3 Finger Rule’, which refers to taking the sunscreen for 3 fingers full length.
2. Distribute Evenly - Dab on sunscreen gently to avoid missed spots and ensure a thin, even layer.
3. Reapply Regularly - Touch up every 2-3 hours when in the sun.
4. Choose the Right Formula - Opt for sweat, water, and sebum-resistant (often labeled as “sport”) sunscreens for long-lasting protection during intense activities.

These tips should help you better understand the benefits and usage of sunscreens in daily skincare routine.

Refer to our CTM blog for more insights on a complete skincare routine.

The Final Thoughts

Many used to believe that SPF indicates the strength of sunscreen, but now people are becoming more aware that it’s really about the duration of safe sun exposure. Sunscreen is essential for protecting against UV rays, which can cause skin cancer, damage, and sunburn.

For a comprehensive defense of your skin, opt for a broad-spectrum sunscreen. Irrespective of the type of product you may choose, apply it generously to cover your hair, face, neck, arms, legs, and other body parts.