The difference between UVA and UVB rays
UV rays: why they are so harmful to the skin
What is the difference between UVA and UVB rays?
UV stands for Ultraviolet. Natural sunlight consists of about 95 percent UVA and about 5 percent UVB. These rays affect the skin in different ways: UVA rays have a long wavelength and penetrate deep into the skin (down to the dermis), where they can damage collagen and elastin and cause skin ageing. That's why the A also stands for Aging. UVB rays are stronger than UVA rays, but have a short wavelength, so they penetrate less deeply into the skin than UVA rays (mainly down to the epidermis). UVB rays cause DNA damage and sunburn, which is why the B also stands for Burning.
PRO TIP! Prisma Protect SPF30 protects the skin against harmful UV radiation, free-radical damage and air pollution.
UVA rays:
- Long wavelength
- Reaches into the dermis and basal cell layer
- Responsible for premature ageing
- Plays a major role in developing skin cancer
- Causes the formation of free radicals
UVB rays:
- Long wavelength
- Mainly reaches the epidermis
- Causes burning
- Plays a major role in developing skin cancer
- Causes DNA damage
Facts and fables about SPF and UVA/UVB rays
Fable: You can add SPF values together: SPF20 + SPF30 = SPF50
Fact: Combining products with different SPF values may seem clever, but it doesn't mean you're better protected against UV rays. SPF20 + SPF30 = SPF30, not SPF50!
Fable: You can only get UV damage when it's sunny.
Fact: Even on a foggy or cloudy day, UV rays reach the skin and skin damage can occur. What's more: you can even get skin damage behind glass. Although UVB rays are blocked by glass, 50 percent of UVA rays pass through it! So even at home, in the office and in the car, UV protection is far from unnecessary.
PRO TIP! Invisible Physical Defense SPF30 offers physical SPF broad-spectrum protection and leaves no white cast making it suitable for all skin tones.
Fable: An SPF protects against UVA and UVB
Fact: An SPF only provides protection against UVB rays (sunburn). For good protection it's essential to use a product that also offers protection against UVA rays (skin ageing). This is also known as broad-spectrum sun protection. All of Dermalogica's sun protection products contain broad-spectrum sun protection.
PRO TIP! Protection 50 Sport SPF50 offers broad-spectrum sun protection and is suitable for both the body and the face. The formula doesn't feel greasy and absorbs quickly, so it's perfect for a day at the beach!
Fable: When you're sunburnt, your skin needs a rich cream.
Fact: With sunburnt skin it's better to avoid rich oil-based creams. Rich creams actually trap the skin's heat, which can worsen a burning sensation. Instead, use a nourishing product with cooling ingredients such as Cucumber, Licorice and Lavender.
PRO TIP! Calm Water Gel is a water-gel moisturizer that instantly soothes and cools irritated skin. A must-have for red, sunburnt cheeks!
