What is PA in Sunscreen? A Simple Guide to UVA Protection

“I have the highest SPF, that should give me maximum protection!” Let’s agree we’ve all thought this at some point!  But trust us, Sun Protection Factor (SPF) is only half the story. Here’s the truth. The sun is made up of two types of ultraviolet rays that your skin battles every single day.

• UVB - causes immediate sunburn, tanning and premature ageing

• UVA - long term damage, pigmentation and long term premature ageing.

SPF measures how long your skin is protected from primarily UVB rays. But not UVA, which penetrate deeper into the skin and causes long-term sun damage. Most people only protect themselves from UVB, and not UVA. This is where a PA rating in sunscreens comes in. PA rating measures how much your sunscreen protects your skin against UVA rays. 

Especially in India where the UV index reaches extreme (11 and above), with cities like Bangalore reaching a UV index of 13 as early as March, relying on SPF alone isn’t enough. 

In this simple guide, we walk you through understanding what PA in sunscreen means and why it’s so crucial for Indian skin and Indian weather.

 

What Does PA in Sunscreen Mean? 

PA means “Protection Grade of UVA.”  It is a rating system developed in Japan and widely recognised as the standard across Asia, i.e, Japan, South Korea and more so in India.  It measures a sunscreen’s ability to protect your skin against UVA radiation. 

• PA was developed by the Japanese Cosmetic Industry Association (JCIA) and is based on the Persistent Pigment Darkening Method (PPD). 

• In simple terms, it is tested on human skin (In-Vivo) to measure how much the skin can resist the Persistent Pigment Darkening (PPD) of the skin due to melanin oxidation, a chemical process that changes existing melanin,  induced by UVA radiation.

(Source: National Library of Medicine)

Why UVA Rays Matter

UVA rays matter as they make up 95% of UV radiation

• According to WHO, unlike UVB, UVA radiation penetrates deeper into the skin, reaching the lower dermis, where blood vessels and connective tissues are affected, breaking down collagen and elastin and contributing to premature photoageing (premature ageing). 

• They are high intensity and present almost all year round,  even on cloudy days. They can also penetrate through glass windows  

• It’s damage is long term: premature ageing, pigmentation and dark spots and increased risk of skin cancer

PA Ratings Explained (PA+, PA++, PA+++, PA++++) 

If you’ve seen the symbol “+” on your sunscreen label but didn’t understand what it meant, don’t worry, let’s break down what they symbolise.

PA+ to PA++++ Breakdown

The PA rating is symbolised by “+” meaning lowest level of  UVA protection factor (UVAPF) with the highest UVAPF being “++++”  

Dermatologists recommend a PA rating of “+++” or higher for high level protection against UVA radiation, especially in the harsh Indian UV conditions 

Difference Between SPF and PA 

According to the Journal of  American Academy of Dermatology (JAAD), the core difference between SPF and the PA system is in what UV radiation they protect your skin against.

 

Now you know what sunscreen ratings like PA and SPF really mean.  It's time to protect your skin from the harsh UV by understanding why it’s necessary for your skin. 

Why PA Rating is Crucial for Indian Skin Types

Regardless of your skin type, you need higher protection against UVA radiation to prevent long-term effects of sun damage. 

Indian Climate Factors

• High UV index, reaching very high extremes (11+) in Indian cities indicate that the UV rays are harsher than anticipated. This along with UVA rays that aren’t only present in the summer, but all year round with high intensity indicates a need for PA rated sunscreen

• Constant pollution + high heat & humidity breaks down sunscreen filters faster due to increased sweating. Having a high defence against UVA helps protect your skin long term. 

Common Skin Concerns

Melanin-rich skin toneUVA rays penetrate deeper into the skin and are the primary cause long term UV-induced skin damage from common Indian skin concerns such as

• Pigmentation 

• Tanning

• Acne marks

A high PA rating ensures your skin is protected against UV- induced melanin production, and prevents further worsening of stubborn pigmentation, tanning and acne marks, which melanin-rich skin tones like Indians are already prone to. 

How to Choose the Right Sunscreen Based on PA Rating)

If you’re confused about how to choose the right PA sunscreen for you, here’s a a dermatologist approved guide to help you. 

 For Oily Skin

• Gel-based, lightweight, non-comedogenic

 For Dull or Pigmented Skin

• Add antioxidants (Vitamin C) 

For Daily Use

• Broad-spectrum SPF 50 + PA+++

Best Sunscreens Based on Skin Type 

Top dermatologists recommendation for a high PA rated sunscreen based on your specific skin type: 

For Oily & Acne-Prone Skin

If you have oily and acne prone skin you need a lightweight non-comedogenic sunscreen formula with a high PA rating. 

Deconstruct Gel Sunscreen for Oily Skin

• Lightweight, airy and gel based texture

• Non-greasy, pore-friendly with non-comedogenic ingredients (do not clog pores). 

• SPF 55+ PA+++ which is recommended by dermatologists for ideal protection against UV damage, especially if you’re someone who spends prolonged time outdoors or under direct sunlight. 

This Gel sunscreen is highly recommended by dermatologists as the best sunscreen for oily skin as it is a lightweight, gel based sunscreen, specifically formulated for oily skin and acne prone users and India’s humid climate 

For Brightening & Dull Skin

If your skin is always dull and tired, you require a high PA rated sunscreen with brightening actives like Vitamin C 

Deconstruct Vitamin C Sunscreen

• Combines UV protection + brightening actives such as Vitamin C to brighten skin

• Helps reduce persistent dullness over time

• Hydrating +Lightweight and non-sticky formula

• Antioxidant protection to help reduce oxidative stress from environmental stressors like UV and pollution. 

• SPF 50 PA++++ broad spectrum protection 

Dermatologists recommend the Deconstruct’s Vitamin C sunscreen for anyone looking for active brightening along with broad spectrum SPF protection from UVA+ UVB radiation.

 For Even Tone & Glow

For anyone looking for overall even skin tone and looking to improve skin’s radiance, dermatologists recommend a sunscreen with brightening agents like Niacinamide 

Deconstruct Fluid Brightening Sunscreen

• Niacinamide brightens skin and targets uneven skin tone

• Lightweight fluid texture

• Daily wear friendly 

• Hydrating + soothing ingredients 

• Suitable for all skin types 

• Water-resistant and suitable for extremely humid climates 

• SPF 50+ and PA++++ broad spectrum protection 

Dermatologists highly recommend the Fluid Brightening sunscreen as it is formulated specifically for extremely humid regions and the Indian climate and for it’s lightweight, fluid texture that brightens your skin and improves overall skin tone while also soothing and hydrating the skin. 

Common Mistakes People Make with Sunscreen 

If you think your sunscreen isn’t working, check if you’re doing these common mistakes: 

• Only checking SPF numbers and ignoring PA ratings. You need both for effective protection against UVA+ UVB rays.

• Not reapplying enough. Just cause you applied it once does not mean you’re covered for the day.  Dermatologists recommend you reapply every two-three hours, especially if you’re under direct outdoor sunlight, after swimming and towel drying.

• Using too little product or too much product, both can minimise the effectiveness of your PA rated sunscreen

Final Takeaway 

SPF may be the attention grabber, but PA is committed to the long game. At the end of the day, choosing the best sunscreen for Indian skin and Indian climate doesn’t just come down to SPF numbers. It comes to picking a sunscreen that offers complete protection. SPF only gives you halfway protection against UV damage. The real difference between that and a complete and healthier skin lies with understanding PA rating in sunscreens. Protecting your skin from UVA rays is equally important due to how deeply it can penetrate your skin layers and cause long term damage and accelerate premature ageing, fine lines and wrinkles. 

Dermatologists constantly recommend gel and fluid-based formulations from Deconstruct for its broad-spectrum SPF 50 and PA+++ or higher sunscreens that are proven to effectively protect your skin from the harsh Indian sun climate and humidity. Choose the right PA sunscreen that’s right for your skin type and skin concern to ensure you're providing your skin with the personalised care+ optimal UV protection that it deserves. 

FAQs About PA in Sunscreen 

Is PA+++ enough for daily use?

Yes, PA+++ is enough for daily use. Dermatologists recommend a PA+++ or PA++++ rated SPF sunscreen to effectively protect your skin from UVA rays.

Is PA++++ better than PA+++?

Yes, PA++++ offers maximum protection available against UVA radiation. PA+++ offers very high protection against UVA. 

Does PA protect against tanning?

Yes, PA rating system measures how much your skin is protected from UVA radiation which causes long term sun damage, long term tanning and skin pigmentation. PA+++ and PA++++ rated sunscreens are the ideal choice recommended by dermatologists for preventing tanning in Indian climates

Can I skip PA if SPF is high?

No, you should not skip PA even if SPF number is really high. SPF measures protection against UVB radiation whereas PA rated sunscreen measures protection against UVA rays. Dermatologists highly recommend a broad spectrum sunscreen with SPF 50+ and PA+++ or higher,

Which PA rating is best for Indian weather?

Dermatologists recommend a PA rating of +++ or ++++  for Indian weather due to the very high and extreme UV index. Deconstruct’s SPF 50+ along with PA+++ or higher are the ideal choice by dermatologists as they are lightweight and gel or fluid based, making them the best broad spectrum protection for Indian climate conditions. 

Remember, wearing an SPF sunscreen is like wearing sunglasses without UV protection.

Dermatologists frequently recommend a broad-spectrum sunscreen, which protects against both UVA + UVB radiation, having both SPF+ PA rating of “+++” or higher for optimal protection against UV radiation, especially in the harsh Indian climate conditions.