28/08/2026
SPF50+ or PA++++ — what’s the difference? Here’s the Science:
SPF measures protection mainly against UVB rays the rays most associated with sunburn. Won’t educate you on how terrible these are for your skin health, as I know you know! SPF50 means significantly more UVB protection than lower SPF levels when applied correctly.
PA measures protection against UVA rays… which pe*****te deeper into the skin and are associated with tanning, premature skin ageing and long-term skin damage.
PA++++ is the highest commonly used PA rating, indicating very high UVA protection.
So, ideally, you want both
SPF50+ = high UVB protection
PA++++ = very high UVA protection
Because “sun protection” isn’t just about preventing a red face it’s about protecting your skin from different types of UV exposure.