PA+++ vs PA++++ — The Real Difference in UVA Protection Grades

Sunscreen labels show a PA rating — PA+++, PA++++, and so on — right alongside the SPF number. SKINROUTE breaks down what the PA rating means, how much PA+++ and PA++++ actually differ, and how to choose a rating that fits your life.

What Is the PA Rating?

PA (Protection Grade of UVA) is a UVA protection rating that originated in Japan and is also used in Korea. The rating is set using a value called PPD (Persistent Pigment Darkening). PPD is based on how much skin darkens after UVA exposure, and shows how many times more UVA is needed to produce that same reaction once sunscreen is applied.

It's tempting to read a PPD of 8 as "you tan 8 times slower," but it's more accurate to think of it as "about 1/8 as much UVA reaches your skin" under the same conditions — the same reason you shouldn't calculate SPF as "minutes of protection." What the SPF number actually means is covered in The Complete Guide to SPF and PA Ratings.

The Difference Between SPF and PA

UVB is strongest at midday in summer and burns skin red, while UVA varies relatively little by season and passes through clouds and glass windows to a significant degree. Research has documented how UVA reaching deep into the skin speeds up photoaging. Not feeling sunburned doesn't mean UVA isn't reaching you, so if you work near a window for long stretches or drive often, keeping up your PA rating matters for you too.

How Much PA+++ and PA++++ Actually Differ

PA+++ requires a PPD of 8 or higher, and PA++++ requires 16 or higher, so on paper, UVA protection roughly doubles between the two. That said, these values come from testing with a lab-standard amount applied, so your real-world protection depends heavily on how much you apply and how often you reapply.

• PA+++: often enough on days with limited UV exposure — commuting, short errands, mostly indoor time.
• PA++++: gives you more of a cushion on days with longer exposure — outdoor activities, long drives, hiking, swimming — or if you're concerned about dark spots, blemishes, or photoaging.

The American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) recommends choosing an SPF 30+ product with Broad Spectrum protection against both UVA and UVB, and using a water-resistant product for swimming or sweating. Matched to everyday situations, that looks like this:

How UVA Protection Is Labeled Around the World

Sunscreens from overseas brands or bought directly from abroad often don't carry a PA rating, because different countries label UVA protection differently.

Europe's UVA mark and the U.S. Broad Spectrum label only mean "UVA protection meets a set standard" — they don't correspond to a specific PA rating like PA++++. If a product doesn't carry a PA label, check for at least one of these instead. Approved UV filters also vary by country, so UVA protection can differ for the same brand depending on where it's sold.

UVA-Blocking Ingredients and How to Apply Them

Few ingredients broadly block UVA, especially the longer UVA wavelengths, which is why the PA rating depends heavily on which filters are combined and how.

Even the highest rating won't deliver its labeled protection if you apply too little. SPF and PA are measured using 2mg per cm² of skin, but studies on real-world use found that most people apply far less than that. See The Right Sunscreen Amount and the Two-Finger Rule for how to estimate how much your face needs.

The AAD advises applying sunscreen 15 minutes before heading out, reapplying every 2 hours while outdoors, and reapplying right away after swimming or sweating.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does PA++++ feel heavier or thicker than PA+++?

Not necessarily. How a sunscreen feels depends more on which filters are used and in what formula than on the rating itself. Plenty of PA++++ products apply lightly, so it's worth testing the feel yourself.

Do I need to pay attention to the PA rating on cloudy days?

Yes, it's worth it. UVA passes through clouds to a significant degree, so it still reaches your skin on cloudy days. Apply as usual regardless of the weather.

Do I need PA protection indoors?

Yes, if you sit near a window for long stretches or spend a lot of time in the car. Ordinary glass blocks most UVB but lets a significant amount of UVA through. If you stay well away from windows, PA+++ is often enough.

Dark spots seem to be getting darker even though I wear PA++++ — why?

It's likely you're applying too little or missing reapplications. The labeled rating assumes a generous amount, so apply enough and reapply every 2 hours. Visible light can also affect pigmentation, so if dark spots are a concern, a tinted sunscreen with iron oxide is worth considering alongside your usual one.

Find the Sunscreen That Fits Your Life

Which rating and formula you need depends on where and how you spend your day. SKIN100 Precision Skin Analysis uses over 100 survey questions to analyze 8 core factors — lifestyle habits, skincare habits, external environment, and more — to flag your UV exposure habits, from commuting to outdoor activity. Your AI coach guides you through a sunscreen rating and routine tailored to your results.

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