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2026.05.12

How to Choose a Sunscreen | A Complete Guide to SPF, PA, and UV Resistance to Know Before Summer

BIANCA STAFF
BIANCA STAFF

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Hello 🌞

I am M., a nurse!

 

 

It is mid-May and the sun is starting to shine.

 

EveryoneSunscreen Selection."How is it done? 🧐

 

 

 

I take UV protection every year, but I'm worried about spots and dullness..."

 

I have sensitive skin, so I don't know which sunscreen to choose..."

 

Do you have such problems? 💭

 

 

 

Especially in spring and summer, the amount of UV rays increases, so it is important to choose a sunscreen that suits your skin and lifestyle 🌿.

 

 

At BIANCA CLINIC, we not only propose cosmetic medicine“Daily skin care habits.”We also place a high priority on

 

In this issue, we will introduce some of the most popular sunscreens in the clinic while explaining the difference between "SPF", "PA", and "UV resistance" in an easy-to-understand manner. 👩🏻‍⚕️

 

 

 

 

Important in sunscreen selectionThree criteria

〜SPF", "PA", and "UV resistance".

 

 

 

What is SPF? A number to prevent spots and redness

 

 

SPF" stands for "Sun Protection Factor" and indicates the ability to protect against ultraviolet B waves (UV-B).

 

UV-B is ultraviolet rays that cause inflammation on the skin's surface, which can lead to redness and burning. In addition, it can promote melanin production, leading to spots and freckles.

 

The higher the SPF number, the more effective the protection against UV-B. SPF 50 or higher is indicated as "SPF 50+".

 

SPF 30 or so is recommended for commuting and shopping, and SPF 50+ for days of leisure and outdoor activities.

 

 

 

 

What is PA? An important indicator to prevent skin aging

 

 

PA stands for "Protection Grade of UV-A" and is a measure of protection against ultraviolet A waves (UV-A).

 

UV-A is ultraviolet rays that reach deep into the skin, down to the dermis, and prolonged exposure is believed to lead to photoaging, such as wrinkles and sagging skin.

 

PA is indicated by the number of "+" to indicate effectiveness, and there are four levels from PA+ to PA++++. PA+++ is recommended for everyday use, and PA++++ is recommended if you are outdoors for long periods of time.

 

Recently, more and more people are placing emphasis on PA from the viewpoint of “protecting future skin” rather than just “not burning.

 

 

 

 

 

What is the new standard "UV resistance"?

 

 

In recent years, "UV resistance" has been the focus of much attention ✨.

 

 

Until now, expressions such as "water proof" have existed, but the lack of unified standards has made comparisons difficult. Therefore, in 2021, the Japan Cosmetic Industry Association established a new water resistance standard.

 

UV resistance indicates how well the UV protection is maintained even after being wetted by water.

The display has two levels.

 

UV Resistant ★

UV Resistant ★★★★★ Water Resistant

 

 

It is recommended that you also check this labeling and make your selection during the summer months when you are at the beach, pool, or sweat easily!

 

 

 

 

 

Recommended sunscreens by skin type and lifestyle

 

In fact, here are five of our most popular sunscreens 🌞.

 

 

 

Foam formulation x serum-level skincare ingredients|Skin Amure

 

 

Developed by our dermatologist, Dr. Miyuki Iwama!

 

SPF50 PA++++ Water Resistant★★ Long UVA

 

skin amoure of the "SA DAY FOAMILI ESSENCEis a foaming daytime serum and sunscreen that focuses on moisturizing, skin barrier support, and frictionless.

 

The distinctive feature of this product is its water-reactive lamellar support formula. By meeting sweat and water, it forms and strengthens a "skin moisture film" to gently protect the skin during the daytime when it is prone to dryness.

 

In addition, it contains human ceramide and 13 types of amino acids. It is popular among those who are concerned about dryness after beauty treatments!

 

It is also a foaming sunscreen that provides frictionless, the great enemy of skin aging 🫧.

 

The foamy nature of the product makes it fun for little ones to use✨.

 

Recommendations:

○○People are prone to dryness

○People prone to skin irritation

○○ Sunscreen makes it harder to get a good suntan.

○○ I want to apply it frictionless.

 

 

 

 

 

Easy reapplication! Recarca UV Spray

 

 

SPF50+ PA++++

 

lekarka of the "FRAGRANCE UV CUT SPRAYis a spray-type sunscreen that can be easily reapplied!

 

 

In addition to high UV protection, it also contains cosmetic ingredients such as vitamin C and fullerene.

 

It is easy to use over makeup and can be applied to hair and body, making it suitable for UV protection when on the go or at leisure.

 

This item is easy to use even for those who "don't like to reapply sunscreen.

 

As the product name says fragrance, it is a spray-type sunscreen with a very nice fragrance ✨.

 

Recommendations:

○Want to reapply easily at leisure, etc.

I don't want to get my hands dirty when I apply it.

I want to enjoy the scent.

 

 

 

 

If you want to use it like a serum|dr365

 

 

SPF50+ PA++++ UV Resistance ★★★★

 

dr365 of the "V.C. UV Day Essence Nis a daytime UV serum containing approximately 88% serum ingredients.

 

 

Containing four types of vitamin C, it is also popular among those concerned about pores and dryness 🍋.

 

Recommended for those who want to combine UV protection with skincare.

 

 

Recommendations:

I want to use it like a serum.

I also want to take care of my pores.

Prefer a moist texture

 

 

 

 

Contains fullerene! Plus Restore

 

 

SPF50+ PA++++ UV Resistance ★★★★

 

plus restoreof the "UV lotionis characterized by a light texture.

 

 

Because of the toning effect of the UV cream, I personally recommend it as a makeup base!

 

It is also resistant to near-infrared rays and blue light. This item is popular among men because it is less sticky and easy to apply not only to the face but also to the body.

 

It also contains skin conditioning ingredients such as fullerene and is designed for easy daily use.

 

 

Recommendations:

I also want to take antioxidant care with ○Fullerene.

I want to use it like a makeup base.

Prefer a smooth texture

 

 

 

 

B.THE UV if you want to use it gently every day

 

 

SPF35 PA+++

 

B. of the "B.THE UVis a milk-type sunscreen that is gentle on the skin.

 

 

With SPF35/PA+++, it provides just the right amount of UV protection for daily use.

 

Because it is designed to be removed with soap, it is also chosen by those who want to use it with small children.

 

In addition, the non-chemical and six additive-free formulations are attractive in that they are designed to be gentle on the skin.

 

 

Recommendations:

○Natural orientation

I want to use it every day.

I want to use it with my family.

○○Want to protect your home from UV rays from windows when you are at home

 

 

 

 

UV protection is "aAmount to be applied」and「re-coating (e.g. repainting, respraying, etc.)Also important: 🗝️

 

 

Even the most sophisticated sunscreen may not be effective enough if used in small amounts.

 

In the case of the faceAbout the size of a 500 yen coinIt is important to apply evenly. Since the product is removed by perspiration and friction, it is recommended to reapply every 2 to 3 hours.

 

The SA DAY FOAMILI ESSENCE of Skin Amure is1 ping pong ballPlease use 👩🏻‍⚕️ as a guide for a single dose.

 

 

Especially after cosmetic procedures, your skin is more susceptible to the effects of UV rays. After laser treatment or peeling, be aware of moisturizing and UV protection!

 

 

🌞FAQ🌞.

 

Q1: Is it safe to use SPF50+ every day?

 

It can be used daily if it suits your skin. However, if you are prone to dryness or in winter, we recommend choosing a moisturizing type. Sunscreen should be applied for 356 days 💪.

 

 

 

Q2. Is PA++++ really necessary?

 

It is recommended for those who are on the go for long periods of time and for those who want to focus on anti-aging care.

 

 

 

Q3. how many hours should I reapply sunscreen?

 

Considering perspiration and friction, frequent reapplication every 2-3 hours is ideal 🧴.

 

 

 

Q4: Do I need a sunscreen that supports blue light?

 

It is especially recommended for those who use smartphones and PCs for long periods of time 💻.

 

 

 

Q5. Are there sunscreens that can be used on sensitive skin?

 

There are products designed to be hypoallergenic, non-chemical, and other products that take into consideration the skin burden. It is important to choose the right product for your skin condition 💭.

 

 

 

BIANCA CLINIC welcomes your skin care consultation 🙌

 

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