Why high-UVA protection matters
SPF mainly tells you about UVB (burning), not the full story. UVA penetrates deeper, drives photoaging, and is a major trigger for hyperpigmentation and melasma flares. A sunscreen can have high SPF but only moderate UVA protection unless it’s specifically built and tested for it. PMC+1
How to spot strong UVA protection on labels
Because countries label UVA differently, here are the quickest reliable signals:
- EU / UK “UVA in a circle” mark
This symbol means the UVA protection factor is at least 1/3 of the labeled SPF, and the product meets a broad-spectrum critical wavelength standard. In practice, higher SPF + the UVA circle usually implies higher minimum UVA-PF. Anne-Marie van Geloven+3Dr Sam’s+3KindofStephen+3 - PA system (Japan/Korea)
PA ratings are derived from PPD (Persistent Pigment Darkening) testing, a direct UVA metric.- PA+++ ≈ PPD 8–16
- PA++++ ≈ PPD ≥16 (what we prefer for high-UVA days / PIH-prone skin). Paula’s Choice+3Dr Felicity+3Colorescience UK+3
- Explicit UVA-PF / PPD numbers (when stated)
If a brand discloses it, higher UVA-PF/PPD = better UVA defense. Testing methods vary globally, but it’s still the most transparent signal when available. PMC+2ScienceDirect+2
What we’ll use for our shortlist (how we rank)
This is the rubric we’ll apply as we publish picks:
- High UVA-PF / PPD or equivalent PA++++
Priority for pigmentation-prone and photoaging-focused routines. Dr Felicity+1 - Balanced broad-spectrum coverage
We exclude formulas that lean UVB-heavy without long-UVA support (critical wavelength ≥370 nm or brands demonstrating strong UVA curves). ScienceDirect+2SLMD Skincare+2 - Photostable modern filters
Preference for stable UVA filters and well-designed filter stacks, not just high SPF numbers. PMC+1 - Wearability + tolerability in real skin
High-UVA sunscreens mean nothing if people under-apply them. We prioritize formulas that are comfortable enough to apply at correct amounts. PMC
Shortlist coming next: We’re currently auditing high-UVA candidates across EU, JP/KR, and AUS labeling systems. This guide will update as each product is fully vetted.