Contrary to the stereotype, sun rays are useful for humans, if the amount is correct. However, because of the slightest carelessness, the ultraviolet becomes dangerous, in particular, UVA and UVB.
UVA rays
Ultraviolet rays of group A (UVA) make up 90% of all the sun's rays that reach the Earth's surface. UVA rays surround us every day regardless of the time of the year, comes through the glass, are emitted by fluorescent lamps and are used in solariums. These rays are not suggested to be the most dangerous, nevertheless, their harmful effect is "quiet" - without burns and notable discomfort. UVA radiation penetrates even through clothing, although the white color of the fabric can still reflect it.
UVB rays
Ultraviolet rays of group B (UVB) – are the remaining 10%. They are considered to be the most dangerous, but most of the damage from these rays is noticeable just after their perceived influence. Skin burns on the skin provoke photoaging, various processes begin in the skin cells, which in some cases lead to dangerous diseases.
To receive a sunburn, it is not necessary to take sunbathes all day long, sometimes it's enough to walk along the street on a hot day and you can get redness on your hands or face - even a change of skin color is considered to be an easy form of burn.
What is important to know
Sunscreen with SPF (more about SPF, you can read here) is an effective way to protect your skin from UV rays of the spectrum B. The higher the SPF filter is on the label, the higher the degree of protection. However, people with fair skin are recommended to use sunscreen with SPF 30 and above. Also take into account that people with dark skin are not so affected by UVB, but still they are affected by UVA radiation.
Unfortunately, most of the sunscreen products are focused on the ultraviolet rays of group B (UVB). Nevertheless, every year more and more products are struggling with harmful effects of UVA - the so-called broad-spectrum products.
One of the most common "reflectors" of A and B rays is a natural mineral of titanium dioxide. Checking the ingredients of a protective cream, pay attention where in the list of ingredients this component is. The closer it is to the beginning, the higher amount of it is contained in sunscreen.
The stars on a cream tube also can tell you about protection from UVA - from 1 to 5 stars. Many Japanese manufacturers also place PA + or PA ++ on the label, this indicates an average and high degree of protection against UVA.
In many studies, it has been established that not enough amount of sunscreens increases the threat from UVA and UVB, so you need to apply a thick layer.
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