When it comes to protecting your skin from the sun, it’s crucial to understand the terms and symbols on your sunscreen. Here, we explain the most important concepts in simple terms so you can protect yourself properly.
What is SPF?
SPF, or Sun Protection Factor, measures how long you can stay in the sun without getting burned compared to not using protection. It doesn’t protect against all types of radiation, only UVB rays. Here are the levels:
– Low: SPF 6-10
– Medium: SPF 15-25
– High: SPF 30-50
– Very high: SPF 50+
What is UVB?
UVB rays primarily affect the outer layer of the skin (epidermis) and are responsible for sunburns and some allergies. In the long term, they can also cause skin cancer.
What is UVA?
UVA rays penetrate deeper into the skin (dermis). Although they don’t cause immediate burns, they can cause premature aging, spots, and also skin cancer in the long term. These rays penetrate clouds and glass, so it’s important to protect yourself even on cloudy days or while inside a car.
IR-A
Infrared-A (IR-A) radiation penetrates deeply into the skin and generates heat, which can lead to water loss and sagging. Many modern sunscreens also protect against this radiation.
HEVL
High Energy Visible Light (HEVL) comes from the sun and electronic device screens. This light penetrates deeply into the skin, causing spots and aging. Look for sunscreens that indicate protection against HEVL.
PAO
PAO (Period After Opening) is a symbol that looks like an open jar with a number followed by an “M.” It indicates how many months the product maintains its effectiveness after being opened. For example, “12M” means the sunscreen is effective for 12 months after opening.
WATER-RESISTANT
A water-resistant sunscreen maintains 50% of its protection after two 20-minute baths. This means you need to reapply it every 40 minutes if you’re frequently in the water.
PA+ (or ++, +++, ++++)
PA indicates the level of protection against UVA rays:
– PA+: Low protection
– PA++: Medium protection
– PA+++: High protection
– PA++++: Very high protection
- Critical Wavelength (λc)
A recent symbol that appears as λc 370nm indicates that the sunscreen offers broad-spectrum protection against UVB and UVA. A λc value of 370 nm or higher guarantees effective protection.
- Benefits of Sun Protection
– Prevents premature aging: Sunscreens help prevent wrinkles and spots.
– Reduces the risk of skin cancer: They protect against harmful radiation that can cause cancer.
– Daily protection: It’s important to use sunscreen every day, not just at the beach.
- Our Mineral Filters
At ADP, we offer 100% mineral-origin filters. Thanks to the patented CoSmart technology, they have a unique size capable of exponentially optimizing skin protection, covering the entire spectrum of UVB, UVA, blue light, and infrared radiation. These filters are suitable for all skin types, including sensitive skin, atopic tendencies, and babies.
- Recommendations
– Apply properly: Use enough and reapply every 2 hours or after swimming.
– Daily protection: Don’t forget to use sunscreen every day, even in winter or on cloudy days.
– For the whole family: Ensure everyone in your family uses adequate sunscreen.
- Fun Facts
– UVA rays are present all year round: Even on cloudy or cold days, UVA rays can damage your skin.
– Clothing also protects: Wear dark-colored and tightly woven fabrics for additional protection.
- Let’s Care for the Planet
Our mineral filters do not pollute the marine environment and are reef-safe. With our campaign “Take Care of Yourself, Take Care of Your World,” we are committed to sustainability and environmental protection. We enthusiastically respond to trends in sustainability and planet care.
Protecting your skin has never been more important.
Choose products that take care of you and our world!
