The broad-spectrum test measures a product’s ultraviolet A (UVA) protection relative to its ultraviolet B (UVB) protection. Sunscreens that pass this test may be labeled as “Broad-Spectrum SPF (value)” on the front of their label. For broad-spectrum sunscreens, SPF values also indicate the amount or magnitude of overall protection. Broad-Spectrum SPF products with SPF valued higher than 15 provide greater protection and may claim additional uses. Only broad-spectrum sunscreens with an SPF value of 15 or higher can claim to reduce the risk of skin cancer and early skin aging if used as directed with other sun protection measures. Non-broad-spectrum sunscreens and broad-spectrum sunscreens with an SPF value between 2 and 14 can only claim to help prevent sunburn.

SPF or sunburn protection factor indicates the UVB/sunburn protection provided by sunscreen. The SPF value indicates the level of sunburn protection provided by the sunscreen product. All sunscreens must be tested according to an SPF test procedure. The test measures the amount of ultraviolet (UV) radiation exposure it takes to cause sunburn when a person is using a sunscreen in comparison to how much UV exposure it takes to cause sunburn when they do not use a sunscreen. The product is then labeled with the appropriate SPF value indicating the amount of sunburn protection provided by the product. Higher SPF values provide greater sunburn protection. Because SPF values are determined from a test that measures protection against sunburn caused by ultraviolet B (UVB) radiation, SPF values only indicate a sunscreen’s UVB protection. However, sunscreens that pass the new broad-spectrum test will have demonstrated that they also provide ultraviolet A (UVA) protection that is proportional to their UVB protection.

Sources: U.S. Food and Drug Administration

https://www.fda.gov/drugs/understanding-over-counter-medicines/questions-and-answers-fda-announces-new-requirements-over-counter-otc-sunscreen-products-marketed-us

What is the meaning of the PA rating on sunscreen?

Every EltaMD sunscreen is PA+++ rated.

PA measurement is how the Japanese convert a standard UVA score from a PPD test into their version of UVA measurement for sunscreens. Japan is one of five countries that has a UVA measurement rating system. For the Japanese rating system the PPD score corresponds to a PA designation:

If PPD = 2-4, then PA = PA+
If PPD = 4-8, then PA = PA++
IF PPD = 8 and higher, then PA = PA+++

PPD ratings are the ratings used to assess UVA protection for sun screens. There are currently only five countries that employ some form of UVA testing: Australia (NZ), Japan, United Kingdom, Germany and the US. All but Germany and the US use PPD testing.

PPD is by itself not used as an indicator of UVA protection, but is converted into a score used by a country or region. For example in Japan they use a conversion system wherein the PPD score is converted to a “Protection of UVA” score or PA. Sunscreens are assigned one, two or three plus symbols (+) depending upon the PPD score derived from UVA testing. This designation would be required to be placed on the label of a product.

High temperature may cause the ingredients to separate or appear “unblended”. However, the sun protection properties are not affected by temperatures up to 122 degrees F (50 degrees C), the maximum at which the product is tested. Exposure to higher temperatures is a misuse of the product.