UVA and UVB Protection
UV light is made up of a wide spectrum of wavelengths – UVA, UVB and UVC rays. UVC rays are the strongest and most dangerous ones, but fortunately, they are absorbed by the ozone layer and Earth’s atmosphere. However, we are exposed to the other two wavelengths, UVA light (320-400nm) and UVB light (280-320 nm).
UVB has a shorter wavelength and triggers the synthesis of vitamin D, which occurs in the skin. However, it also causes short term damage (e.g. sunburn) as well as DNA damage. UVA has a longer wavelength and therefore reaches deeper layers of the skin. It causes long-term damage (such as skin cancer) and photoaging.
Sunscreen products must protect against UVA and UVB radiation. They need to comply with the requirements of the minimum efficacy, which includes a minimum UVB protection of sunscreen factor 6, a minimal UVA protection factor of 1/3 of the sun protection factor and a critical wavelength of 370 nm.
All products, which claim to offer sun protection, have to be adequately supported by standardized and reproducible testing methods.


Signs of Sun Damage
Cumulative sun exposure can cause various skin damage, such as photoaging, DNA damage and skin cancer. Photoaging is associated with the appearance of wrinkles, sagging skin and hyperpigmentation (sunspots).
Claims Related to Sun Care
- SPF
- Water-resistant
- Very water-resistant


Measurement Principles and Instruments
Measurements are done according to ISO standards. UVB protection is measured according to ISO 24444:2010, which is in vivo testing method for determination of sun protection factor (SPF). UVA protection is measured by in vitro determination of sunscreen UVA protection (ISO 24443:2012).