Understanding UV Rays

ANTHELIOS Daily moisturizing cream with sunscreen Select one of the following: View La Roche-Posay About Anthelios Understanding UV Rays Mexoryl™ SX

UVA: THE SECRET CAUSE OF AGING & SKIN CANCER

“Most everyone is aware of the risks associated with UVB exposure, however there are real risks associated with UVA exposure including skin aging, DNA destruction and even skin cancer. Protecting your skin from UVA rays is just as important as protecting yourself against UVB rays.”
Dr. Henry Lim, Vice President-Elect, American Academy of Dermatology and Chairman of Dermatology, Henry Ford Hospital, Detroit, MI

Experts say up to 80% of skin aging is due to UVA Rays Over 30 years, the left side of this teacher’s face aged faster due to UVA exposure through a window in her classroom. Just compare the two sides.*

Up to 95% of UV rays that reach the skin are UVA rays UVA radiation levels have small fluctuations during the day and are present year-round, even in the winter and on cloudy days. UVA rays can even pass through windows and glass, making the indoors, near windows, equally dangerous for your skin.

UVA rays have been linked to skin cancer There is significant scientific evidence that UVA rays contribute to skin cancer by suppressing the immune system.**

LEARN THE FACTS ABOUT UVA & UVB RAYS

What is UV?
UV means ultraviolet, and refers to the radioactive rays emitted by the sun. Two types of damaging UV rays reach the earth: UVA and UVB. UVA rays mainly cause Aging, while UVB rays mainly cause Burning. However, SPF (Sun Protection Factor) measures only UVB—not UVA protection. Experts say up to 80% of skin aging can be attributed to UVA rays.

What are the major differences between UVA and UVB rays?
Unlike UVB rays, UVA radiation levels have small fluctuations during the day, and are present from sunrise to sunset every day, all year round, even in the winter and on cloudy days, and over time can lead to skin cancer.***

How do UVA & UVB affect my skin?

While UVB rays remain primarily at the epidermal level and are partially blocked by the strateum corneum, UVA rays penetrate deeper into the dermis or base layer of the skin.

• UVA activates the melanin stored in the epidermis, and produces a pigmentation effect visible within one hour but usually fades in 24 hours.


• UVA penetrates the epidermis where connective tissue and blood vessels exist. The result is a loss of elasticity that causes the skin to sag, wrinkle, and age prematurely.


• UVB penetration primarily remains at the epidermis level.


• A large dose of UVB radiation will cause acute sunburn, redness, burning sensation, and blistering.


• UVB rays stimulate the formulation of melanin, causing a significant pigmentation of the skin. This darkening effect will be evident after approximately 24 hours and is relatively long-lasting.

We strongly suggest that you visit a medical skincare professional for a complete skin diagnosis before purchasing La Roche-Posay products.

International Customers - La Roche Posay products cannot be shipped outside the U.S.

Featured Products

La Roche Posay Anthelios SX Daily Moisturizer with SPF 15 High UVA protection for daily use. — 3.4oz		La Roche Posay Anthelios 15 Sunscreen Cream Water resistant sunscreen for active and outdoor use. — 3.4oz		La Roche Posay Anthelios 40 Sunscreen Broad-spectrum UVA/UVB protection for outdoor use. — 1.7oz
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