Broad Spectrum UVA Sunscreen Protection

Just because a sunscreen has a high SPF does not necessarily mean that you are being protected from damaging UVA rays. SPF is only a measure of how well a sunscreen blocks UVB rays. UVA (ultraviolet-A) is a longer wavelength of sunlight that penetrates deeper into the skin (without causing surface burning) potentially releasing free radicals, causing skin melanoma, wrinkling and possibly even skin cancer.

Broad spectrum sunscreens (like Badger's) block both UVB and UVA rays.

Critical Wavelength and UVA Protection

The critical wavelength (the international rating system for UVA protection) is the wavelength at which the sunscreen allows 10% of the rays to penetrate. A sunscreen with a critical wavelength over 370nm is considered by the FDA to provide excellent UVA protection. Badger sunscreens have a critical wavelength of 377nm offering excellent protection from UVA rays (see chart).

In the next few years you will see a rating system for UVA protection on sunscreens in the USA, similar to what they already have in Europe, Australia and Japan. One of these systems, the Boots Star System, rates Badger's sunscreens its highest rating, 5 of 5 stars or (Ultra UVA Protection).

UVC: Very short-wavelength solar rays of 200-290nm. UVC rays are reflected by the ozone layer and do not reach the Earth. They are, however, a threat to astronauts and high flying pilots. Badger sunscreens are truly broad spectrum and effectively block UVC rays!

UVB: Short-wavelength solar rays of 290-320 nm. UVB rays penetrate only the epidermis (outer skin) causing sunburns.  UVB rays are considered to be the main cause of basal and squamous cell carcinomas, and are a significant factor in melanomas. UVB rays have different strengths, depending on sun's location, and can be lessened when deflected by clouds. Badger’s active sunscreen ingredient, zinc oxide, effectively blocks all wavelengths of UVB rays.

UVA: Long-wavelength solar rays of 320-400nm. UVA rays penetrate the skin more deeply (into the Dermis, 2nd layer of skin), causing photo aging, actinic damage (wrinkled, leathery, variously pigmented skin), and possibly contributing to skin cancers including melanoma. UVA rays are the same strength year-round. The active ingredient in Badger sunscreens, zinc oxide, is an excellent UVA blocker.

Learn more About Badger Sunscreens.

Read more about Broad Spectrum UVA Sunscreen protection and Critical Wavelength.