UVA
Also called: Ultraviolet A
UVA is the longer-wavelength part of ultraviolet radiation. It penetrates deeper than UVB and is strongly linked with tanning, pigmentation, visible ageing, and long-term skin damage.
At a glance
- UVA is one reason broad-spectrum protection matters.
- UVA can contribute to premature ageing and skin cancer risk.
- SPF alone is not a direct UVA rating.
On this page
The short answer
UVA is the ultraviolet range people often connect with tanning and visible ageing. The Skin Cancer Foundation explains that UVA rays penetrate more deeply than UVB and contribute to premature ageing and skin cancer risk[1].
This is why I do not like judging sunscreen by SPF alone.
How UVA shows up on labels
In the United States, the simplest label clue is broad spectrum. The FDA explains that broad-spectrum sunscreens help protect against both UVA and UVB, while SPF primarily indicates UVB protection[2].
On some Asian sunscreens, you may also see a PA rating, which is a UVA-focused label system.
Mads's practical read
If pigmentation, redness, or visible ageing is part of your concern, UVA coverage deserves attention. Choose broad-spectrum sunscreen, use enough, and reapply when the day is long. Boring advice, yes. Also annoyingly effective.
You do not need to become a UV scientist. You just need to stop treating SPF as the entire sunscreen story.
Keep reading
Common questions
Does UVA cause sunburn?
UVA is mainly associated with tanning and deeper skin ageing changes, but shorter UVA wavelengths can also contribute to sunburn.
How do I know if sunscreen protects against UVA?
Look for broad spectrum on US-style labels or UVA-specific systems such as PA ratings on products that use them.
Citations
- Skin Cancer Foundation: UV Radiation - Skin Cancer Foundation
- FDA: Sunscreen: How to Help Protect Your Skin from the Sun - U.S. Food and Drug Administration