Spending time in the sun is wonderful, but protecting your skin from harmful UV rays is essential. Sunscreen does more than prevent sunburn—it helps lower the risk of long-term skin damage and skin cancer. But with so many terms like PA+++ and SPF, how do you understand your sunscreen and choose the best one?
Let’s break it down to ensure you stay protected during every sun-filled day.
VIDEO
Sun Protection Factor (SPF) SPF, or Sun Protection Factor, measures how well sunscreen shields your skin from UVB rays, the main cause of sunburn.
This is calculated by comparing the amount of UV radiation needed to cause sunburn on skin using sunscreen versus unprotected skin. This value gives us an idea of how long someone can be exposed to sunlight without getting sunburned compared to unprotected skin.
SPF 30 means it blocks about 97% of UVB rays, while SPF 15 blocks around 93%. The higher the SPF, the better the protection. To ensure optimal sun safety, always choose sunscreen with an SPF level of 30 or higher .
“If you’re within a very hot climate,
something in Southeast Asia, Singapore, Malaysia or
anywhere within all these tropical areas…SPF 50 is good.” shared Dr. Lim Ing Kien (
Dr. Ingky ), Malaysian skincare doctor and medi-influencer.
“When your SPF goes higher, it also means that the SPF becomes a bit thicker, [and it] can be more pore clogging.” He cautioned.
Verdict: SPF 50 for day to day use. If you have sensitive skin that clog easily, consider choosing a sunscreen with a lower SPF and reapplying regularly.
PA Rating PA stands for ‘Protection Grade of UVA,’ showing how well sunscreen shields you from UVA rays, which cause sunburns and tans. The more ‘+’ symbols after PA, the stronger the protection—PA+++ offers the highest level.
“Typically, most sunscreens are 3 plus (+++) up to 4 plus (++++).” Dr. Ingky shared. “If you’re actually looking at sports sunscreen, whereby you’re typically under the sun for long periods of time, they typically have very high plus.”
Verdict: Choose a sunscreen with a high PA rating to guard against long-term skin damage – 3 plus to 4 plus for daily use.
Formulation
Sunscreen in a spray bottle When choosing a sunscreen, find one with a texture that suits your skin. Sunscreens come in various forms – oil-based, water-based, gels, sprays, and even sunscreen sticks.
For your first layer of protection, opt for a cream, gel, or milk-based sunscreen, as they provide more coverage.
“If it’s your first layer, do not use a [sunscreen] stick, do not use a spray.” advises Dr. Ingky.
“For the same amount of protection that you need from the gel or the oil base, you will need to spray roughly 47 coats…just to get a similar protection of a small, quarter ounce of [a gel or oil based sunscreen].”
Verdict: Choose an oil or water-based sunscreen as base application, and a spray or stick type for easy reapplication throughout the day.
Sweat or Water Resistance If you are using sunscreen during activities that involve sweating or water, opt for a sweat- or water-resistant product. Sunscreen loses effectiveness when exposed to these liquids, washing away your protection over time.
In order to prevent your sunscreen from sliding off, sweat or waterproof sunscreens may incorporate various additives that improve the adhesion of the product to your skin. However, this may make the product more difficult to remove.
New formulations have begun to tackle this issue through the inclusion of fatty acids in the sunscreen formula, making it easier for you to get your sunscreen off.
Verdict: Choose a sweat- or waterproof formula to stay protected, especially if you are participating in water activities.
Chemical or Physical Sunscreen Sunscreens can be split into two main categories: chemical and physical. This denotes how the product is formulated and how it works to protect your skin from the sun.
Chemical sunscreens work by absorbing sunlight, through the use of ingredients such as avobenzone and benzophenone. In contrast, physical sunscreens reflect UV rays off the skin’s surface, thanks to ingredients like titanium dioxide and zinc oxide.
Those with sensitive skin may opt for physical sunscreens, as they are deemed to be gentler on the skin and less prone to irritation as compared to chemical sunscreens. Physical sunscreens may also be better suited for children and babies. However, they may leave a white cast on the skin after application.
Verdict: Depending on your skin type, consider chemical, physical or combination type sunscreen. You can even add on oral sunscreen for additional protection!
Using Your Sunscreen Correctly
Applying Sunscreen
You may have heard that you need to apply your sun protection ahead of sun exposure. The truth is, for most modern sunscreens in the market, you may apply immediately before heading out.”
“Older versions of sunscreen, which was developed decades ago, require roughly about half an hour to set into your skin in order for you to see results.” shared Dr. Ingky.
“However, all the newer generations of sunscreen, whether it’s a physical or chemical-based sunscreens, actually has been shown [that] it sets in your skin two to three minutes after application.”
Reapply every 3-4 hours for optimal protection, and every 2 hours in sweaty or water-based environments. If you’re indoors or away from intense sunlight, reapplying once a day may suffice.
“After a single application of sunscreen, after 8 hours, roughly 70% of your sunscreen is still on your skin.” Dr. Ingky “If you don’t remember all, it’s impractical for you to reapply sunscreen. It’s fine.”
“Once a day is good enough, as long as you apply.”
Removing Sunscreen
Remove your sunscreen thoroughly at the end of the day with a double cleansing routine You may not realise it, but you need to clean off sunscreen at the end of the day! Dr. Ingky was also surprised when he first discovered this.
“I used to think that sunscreen, because it’s water-based and because it’s like skincare, it sits on the skin, it’s easy to remove by just rinsing it with water or just with a gentle cleanser.”
“However…with just a regular cleanser, water based cleanser, it is insufficient to remove all the sunscreen which are already embedded in the skin.”
He recommends double cleansing – starting with an oil-based cleanser or micellar water to break down the sunscreen, followed by a gentle facial cleanser to fully clean the skin without irritation.
Your Sunscreen Routine Recap
Understanding your sunscreen is key to protecting your skin from harmful UV rays. Look for high SPF and PA ratings, choose the right formulation for your skin, and remember – reapplying is just as important! No sunscreen lasts all day, so reapply every two hours, especially after swimming or sweating.
Beyond sunscreen, seek shade, wear protective clothing, and enjoy the sun safely (Remember to double cleanse at the end of the day!)
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