The Truth Behind the Plus Signs on Your Sunscreen Label

You’ve seen it before — those little “plus” signs next to SPF on your sunscreen bottle: PA+, PA++, PA+++, or PA++++.
But what do they really mean? And more importantly, does having more pluses actually make your sunscreen better?

If you’re serious about protecting your skin from tanning, pigmentation, and premature aging, understanding the PA rating system is essential.
Let’s break it down and see why PA++++ sunscreens like CLARIV Mineral Sunscreen SPF 50 PA++++ offer the highest level of protection your skin deserves.

What Does “PA” Stand For?

PA stands for “Protection Grade of UVA” — a rating system developed in Japan to measure how well a sunscreen protects your skin from UVA rays.

Most people know SPF measures protection against UVB rays, which cause sunburn. But UVA rays are the real silent culprits — they:

• Penetrate deep into the skin

• Trigger pigmentation and melasma

• Cause collagen breakdown (premature wrinkles)

• Damage skin cells even through glass and clouds

So while SPF prevents burning, PA rating prevents aging and uneven skin tone.

The PA Rating Scale — What the Pluses Mean

Here’s how the PA rating system works:

• PA+ → Low protection (2–4× UVA protection)

• PA++ → Moderate protection (4–8×)

• PA+++ → High protection (8–16×)

• PA++++ → Extremely high protection (16× or more)

Simply put, the more pluses, the higher the level of UVA protection.

PA++++ is the gold standard — offering the strongest possible shield against long-term sun damage.

Why PA++++ Matters for Indian Skin

India’s tropical climate means year-round UVA exposure — even when it’s cloudy or winter.
And since Indian skin naturally produces more melanin, it’s more prone to hyperpigmentation, dark patches, and uneven tone caused by UVA rays.

That’s where a PA++++ sunscreen becomes essential.
It not only prevents new pigmentation but also helps protect the results of your skincare routine, especially if you’re using brightening or anti-pigmentation serums.

For Indian skin tones, PA++++ protection isn’t a luxury — it’s a necessity.

Key Benefits of PA++++ Sunscreen

Let’s look at the top science-backed benefits of using a PA++++ sunscreen daily:

1. Prevents Pigmentation and Dark Spots

UVA exposure is a major cause of melasma and uneven skin tone. PA++++ sunscreens block over 95% of UVA rays, preventing new pigmentation and keeping existing spots from deepening.

2. Slows Down Skin Aging

UVA rays penetrate deep into the dermis, breaking down collagen and elastin — leading to fine lines and wrinkles.
A PA++++ sunscreen acts like a daily anti-aging shield, preserving firmness and elasticity.

3. Protects Skin Barrier Health

UVA rays can weaken your skin’s natural barrier, making it more sensitive. High-PA sunscreens maintain barrier integrity — crucial for people using exfoliating or brightening serums.

4. Shields Against Indoor Damage (Blue Light)

Modern PA++++ sunscreens like CLARIV Mineral Sunscreen also help protect against blue light from phones and laptops, which can worsen pigmentation and dullness.

5. Ideal for All Seasons

UVA rays remain constant throughout the year — whether it’s hot, cold, cloudy, or rainy.
That’s why dermatologists recommend using PA++++ sunscreens every single day — not just during summer.

CLARIV Mineral Sunscreen — PA++++ Protection, Simplified

While many sunscreens in the market offer high SPF, very few deliver true PA++++ protection in a formula that’s gentle enough for daily use.

CLARIV Mineral Sunscreen SPF 50 PA++++ is specifically formulated for Indian skin that’s prone to sensitivity and pigmentation.

What Makes CLARIV Stand Out

• 100% Mineral Formula: Made with Zinc Oxide & Titanium Dioxide that reflect UV rays instead of absorbing them.

• High UVA + UVB Defense: SPF 50 protects from burning; PA++++ protects from tanning and aging.

• Lightweight & Non-Greasy: Absorbs quickly without leaving a white cast — perfect under makeup.

• Skin-Soothing Actives: Contains Vitamin E and Aloe Vera Extract to calm, hydrate, and strengthen the skin barrier

• Safe for All Skin Types: Dermatologist-tested and suitable even for sensitive or acne-prone skin.

With CLARIV, you get full-spectrum protection — without the irritation or heaviness typical of traditional sunscreens.

How to Use PA++++ Sunscreen the Right Way

1. Apply generously — use two finger-lengths of sunscreen for your face and neck.

2. Reapply every 3–4 hours, especially if you’re outdoors or in front of screens.

3. Use it every day — even during winter or cloudy days.

4. Layer it last — after your serum and moisturizer, but before makeup.

Pro Tip: Pair your CLARIV Mineral Sunscreen with CLARIV Anti-Pigmentation Serum each morning to fade existing marks and prevent new ones.

Why PA++++ Sunscreens Are the Future of Skincare

As awareness grows about UVA and blue light damage, PA++++ sunscreens are becoming the new skincare standard.
They don’t just protect your skin from immediate sunburn — they protect your future self.

Think of it as a daily investment in youthful, even-toned, healthy skin.
And the best part? You can achieve it effortlessly — with one consistent step each morning.

The Final Word

If you’ve ever wondered why your pigmentation keeps coming back or your skincare results fade over time — your sunscreen might be the missing piece.

Switching to a PA++++ sunscreen like CLARIV Mineral Sunscreen SPF 50 PA++++ ensures your skin gets complete protection — from both UV rays and time itself.

Protect today. Glow tomorrow. Stay consistent — and your skin will thank you for years to come.

☀️ Ready to upgrade your sun protection?
Experience the full power of PA++++ with CLARIV Mineral Sunscreen SPF 50 PA++++ — lightweight, dermatologist-approved, and made for Indian skin.

👉 Shop now at www.clariv.in and start your journey to long-lasting clarity and confidence.