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by: Linda Robison / Facial Fitness Specialist @ ABZ
If you’re serious about preventing fine lines, sagging, and sun damage, don’t just check the SPF—look for the PA rating too.
For years, I thought SPF was enough. But once I learned that UVA rays can break down collagen, thin facial fat pads, and lead to visible face sagging—I knew I had to step up my sunscreen game.
I now use one with a high PA rating and pair it with face exercises that help keep everything lifted and firm.
My daily go-to is Colorescience mineral sunscreen with PA++++ protection.
It’s non-greasy, protects even on humid summer days, and wears beautifully under makeup.
Most of us know SPF protects against UVB rays—the kind that cause sunburn. But here’s the problem:
SPF doesn’t block UVA rays.
UVA = Aging. Collagen breakdown. Wrinkles. Sagging.
That’s where PA comes in.
Note: According to a study published in the Journal of Investigative Dermatology, UVA exposure can affect the skin's underlying structures including collagen and elastin, which provide support to the skin and fat tissue.
Answer
Answer
You’ll often see it written as:
UVA rays:
🧠 Did you know?
UVA rays can even reach through clouds and windows. Long-term exposure = sagging, wrinkles, and even higher risk of skin cancer.
I used to skip sunscreen all the time—until I learned UVA could thin my facial fat pads. Now I never skip.
👉 Curious about fat pads and how I firmed my face naturally? Here’s how I use facial exercises to keep everything lifted.
Choose a sunscreen with:
Here is what you should look for.
UVA-blocking ingredients:
I’ll be honest—I used to skip it all the time. It felt greasy, heavy, or messed up my makeup.
But once I understood that UVA rays could shrink my facial fat pads (yes, really 😱), I got serious.
Now I use a powder brush-on mineral sunscreen during the day (especially in hot weather) and love how easy it is to reapply.
✨ Sunscreen isn’t just protection—it’s prevention AND repair.
Even the best sunscreen wears off. Reapply every 2 hours—especially after sweating or swimming.
I prefer mineral sunscreens for this because:
For a natural, chemical-free option, mineral sunscreens are a great pick—especially if you’re worried about irritation or long-term skin health.
Want help choosing one?
👉 See my favorite chemical-free sunscreens for mature skin.
Yes—some studies suggest that using a broad-spectrum sunscreen daily can help reduce visible signs of aging and improve skin tone and texture over time.
I think of it as my second chance to protect my skin—even if I skipped sunscreen in the past.
Unfortunately, not all countries utilize the PA rating system, although it's common in Asian countries such as Japan.
In the United States, many companies just label their products as "broad spectrum", which means they offer protection against both UVA and UVB rays.
While the term "broad spectrum" is reassuring because it indicates protection against both UVA and UVB rays, it doesn't provide a clear indication of the extent of protection against UVA rays.
This lack of specificity can be a concern because UVA rays contribute to skin aging and can also cause skin cancer.
Here’s exactly what to look for on your sunscreen bottle:
See the "PA++++" right on the label? That’s what tells you this sunscreen offers the highest level of UVA protection. If your sunscreen has this, your skin is covered from the rays that cause sagging and collagen loss.
When you're shopping, look for PA+++ or PA++++ next to the SPF number for full-spectrum protection.
I use Colorscience. It's a little pricey compared to drugstore brands, but it protects well, feels good on my skin and wears beautifully.
I used to avoid sunscreen like the plague—sticky, greasy, and always messing up my makeup.
But once I realized UVA rays could shrink facial fat pads and cause sagging (yes, really 😱), I changed my routine for good.
Now, I only use sunscreens that:
Even if you haven’t been consistent in the past, you get a second chance. Daily sunscreen use can help repair existing sun damage and prevent more from happening.
👉 Not sure how to fit sunscreen into your routine? Here’s my easy layering guide.
Want more skincare tips that actually work?
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About the Author:
Linda Robison is a Facial Fitness Specialist and the founder of Anti-Aging Beauty Zone. She shares expert insights on skincare, facial rejuvenation, and beauty treatments—blending traditional wisdom, personal experience, and science-backed research for both at-home and in-office solutions.
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