In the last two blog posts, I covered the basics of SPF and how to keep your skin protected. For the third and final post in our SPF summer blog series I want to share some information on UVA and UVB sun rays and what it means to have full spectrum sun protection.
When sunlight reaches the earth through the ozone layer (the earth’s protective layer), it comes in two main forms: ultraviolet A and ultraviolet B rays – also known as UVA and UVB rays. These are the main causes of damage to the skin from the sun. UVA and UVB rays affect the skin’s sensitivity to sun exposure in different ways.
| UVA rays = Aging | UVB rays = Burning |
| Penetrates deeply into the skin and breaks down collagen and elasticity causing premature aging. | Mainly responsible for severe sun burns and skin cancers, and damaging the immune system. |
| Can pass through window glass | Cannot pass through window glass |
| Can still penetrate skin even on a cloudy or rainy day. | Is more intense during the mid-day, summer and high altitudes |
| Is present all day, everyday of the year | Helps the body make Vitamin D |
| Causes long-term Skin damage | Causes tanning |
All OLEHENRIKSEN SPF products have what is called “full spectrum” coverage. This means that when you wear an OLEHENRIKSEN sunscreen like hands forward or herbal day creme, you are fully protected against both UVA and UVB rays.
This concludes our three part SPF summer blog series, but of course, if you have any other SPF questions feel free to leave them in the comments below or email us here. Have a safe and happy summer!
Ole Henriksen 
Jenn Karasik 